Overlord: The Exiled

Disclaimer and Notes: Overlord is the property of Kugane Maruyama and licensed by YenPress. Support the official release.

Well, here it is. The meeting you have been anticipating for the past few chapters! I hope that I did this justice. Writing intrigue and political maneuvering is hard enough. Keeping it interesting and captivating . . . that's hard.

Also apologies as this one is a little on the shorter side. Continuing too far after the ending of this one strides into the next chunks of story with other characters, so here we go!

Chapter 9: Revelation

"I am Artorias Faye Pendragon. Queen of Avalon."

Her voice rang with a clear tone that seemed to resonate with them all. Despite her moderate stature, she seemed to take up the entire courtyard with her presence. Where Calca Bessarez held an aura of kind compassion and gentleness, this woman's aura was so much stronger. Yet despite its overwhelming pressure, it was not hostile or malicious. It was merely her charisma and personality. Someone who knew what she was doing and knew how to elevate others to their absolute best.

The woman folded her hands behind her back as she smiled softly.

"I am to understand that Queen Bessarez wished to speak with me. Therefore I have come to speak in person. Messengers can make mistakes and accidents can occur in the delivery. After discussing the manner in which we should open discords with my advisors, it was decided that I should come in person."

Matilda nodded and motioned for them to follow her inside to the foyer. The six subjects of the Queen of Knights stood and formed a protective ring around Artorias. Like points of a hexagon, little would get to her without passing at least two of them before hand. Even though none of them exuded killing intent or malice, the servants and staff could tell that these were veterans and skilled beyond compare.

Inside the foyer Delacroix, his wife Alicia, and Queen Calca Bessarez stood waiting as the doors opened to reveal Matilda. The woman bowed to them and made her announcement.

"Milord, milady. Your Majesty. Our guests have arrived. I announce Her Majesty, Artorias Faye Pendragon and her contingent."

The soldiers entered first before stepping opposite of each other and making space for those following them in. Lucretia and Crozwell entered and bowed to them before stepping aside as well. Artorias stepped forward followed half a step on either side by Gareth and Mordred.

Delacroix swallowed. They were all impressive. Each and every one of them carried themselves with a level of professionalism that spoke of having done this many times. Alicia was surprised and taken back. Other than the Queen before them, there was equal representation of the sexes. Was this the influence of their ruler or something else?

However, the most startling revelation was the identity of the Queen of Knights. She was not human. Her hands were folded behind her back, but they could clearly see the swept back horns instead of ears. The scales over the bridge of her nose and covering her neck. The tail that quietly flicked back and forth in a peaceful rhythm also stood out. Her clothing was immaculate, far better than even Calca's dress, though they dared not say that out loud. Despite the scales, horns, and tail, none of her inhuman features detracted from her beauty, rather, they enhanced it. They were glossy in appearance and smooth, not rough patches. Her glowing eyes also held depth to them that spoke of a lifetime of experience despite her youthful appearance.

Artorias bowed to them, and her companions did so as well.

"Your Majesty Calca Bessarez. I am Artorias Faye Pendragon of Avalon. My companions and I are here in response to you desire to open discussions."

Calca was taken back that another ruler would so easily bow to another. Delacroix and his wife returned the bow and she regained her wits. She bowed as well, though came up smoothly before speaking.

"As Holy Queen of the Holy Roble Kingdom, I am honored to receive you and yours Your Majesty Artorias Pendragon. Tell me, have you had the opportunity to take supper?"

The group rose from their bows and Artorias smiled softly.

"We have not, for our people are currently rationing what food supplies we do have while garnering other methods of supplying and harvesting what we have lost due to our sudden transportation." She held up a hand to forestall any offers. "Please do not inconvenience your kitchen staff. While my people suffer, I would be remiss in partaking of well prepared food when my own must subsist on bland fare. Simple drinks will suffice, as food can cloud thoughts and discussions of import."

The two armed and armored individuals just behind her on either side nodded in approval of her words. Each of the other four also nodded in acceptance of her proposition. Delacroix was stunned. A ruler who would suffer as her people did? Calca faltered a bit at the Queen before her. This was different in every way from what she was used to seeing out of nobles and her Royal Family members.

"Very well. Shall we adjourn to the meeting room?"

"Please."

Calca turned to Delacroix and he motioned for them to follow him. He looked to his wife and motioned with his eyes to the kitchens. Alicia discreetly nodded and left to the kitchens to relay the odd news to not prepare any supper for their guests. It was sure to cause an uproar.

As Delacroix and Calca led them to the meeting room, now just the dining hall sans meal, the two were absorbed in their own thoughts. Those that followed them who wore armor made less noise than thought possible in such equipment. Remedios clanked in her plate armor, but the man with gray and crimson trappings made so little sound by comparison, it was hard to believe than he was really there.

Entering the room, the servants inside bowed to them. As Artorias and her contingent filed in, they glanced at their lord and he nodded firmly. They noted that Mordred, Crozwell, and the male soldier pulled the chairs out for the ladies and queen with them to sit in before pushing them up to a comfortable distance from the table before sitting themselves. Each of the women quietly thanked them for the gesture as well. After they were all situated, Delacroix started off.

"Your Majesty Queen Pendragon. I am Albert Delacroix; Governor of Rimun. I thank you for your patience and temperance concerning any vessel or curious party from our ports that may have come too close in proximity to your patrols."

A neutral nod answered his words. The blond woman in armor answered him with a voice that was younger than he had imagined, yet steeled despite its playful nature.

"Anyone would be curious after an island and city appear out of the blue in the middle of an ocean off of your ports Governor Delacroix. Some of my subordinates did mention how many were curious as they returned from patrols. Some of those were more polite than others, but I doubt you can control that kind of thing. No harm was done, so none was done in return. Nor do we hold it against you."

Her small smile accompanied a glint in her eyes that made him nervous. Who was this woman to answer for her queen?

"May I ask who you are milady?"

"I am Gareth Tellius, Knight of the Round Table directly under Her Majesty Artorias Pendragon. I am the Supreme Commander of our aerial forces."

Her words made those not of their party in the room swallow and tense a bit. A woman led all of the flying units that could be seen patrolling the skies around the island? Knight of the Round Table? What did that mean? Did it mean that she was part of the Queen's inner circle? Someone who had the ear of the sovereign of that city?

"Then I must thank you as well for commanding such well disciplined troops Lady Tellius."

Nodding her acceptance, The man with cinnamon hair and plate armor spoke next.

"We were waiting for some form of contact from an official delegation from your kingdom. It came as a bit of a surprise to hear from the Queen herself. However I do not see the two who were reported to be accompanying you in our flyer's report."

Delacroix and Calca knew that he was speaking about Remedios and Kelart. They were still in the city, but duties at the church and paladin stations had called. He wondered to himself just how long they would have before they returned. Seeing the Queen of Knights was not human concerned him as to reactions. Especially when all of her compatriots before them were quite human.

"Duties called them elsewhere this night."

The group before them nodded. Artorias lifted her right hand palm up to them as she spoke.

"We have heard various reports and second hand knowledge about your kingdom from the merfolk that reside in the ocean waters they call home. Not much of it is very flattering if they should tell it. However!" She spoke firmly to forestall any rebuff. "I am someone who believes as I was taught by my most dear friend in the world, that there is always two sides to a coin. So I wish to verify facts from rumor and fiction. What better manner than speaking with those citizens of the kingdom themselves?"

Calca seemed to relax a bit at her reasoning, but Delacroix did not. Rather, he grit his teeth and clenched his jaw tightly. He knew the tales the merfolk had probably told them, and sadly, much of it was actually correct. Someone like Calca, who willingly withdrew from everyday affairs and political meetings was far outside the know. An ignorant dreamer who failed to truly grasp the harsh realities of the world around them. Even though that innocent purity was something that did indeed inspire the soldiers when she walked among them, it meant nothing in the face of war and invasion.

He could easily tell that despite the presentation and ceremony that this group from the island nation of Avalon, they could also probably fight on a level exceeding their paladin order. Judging by the pair of swords she wore and the title she bore, he bet that Queen Artorias could fight as well if not better than her army's elite.

"A wise and admirable decision Your Majesty. I apologize but I feel that I must agree with the merfolk on much of what they may have told you."

Genuine surprise crossed all faces present regardless of party. The group from Avalon exchanged thoughtful and concerned looks at each other. No whispers traveled between them however. Artorias closed her eyes in contemplation as the others looked to each other in various turns. It was all a bit unnerving for the servants, Calca, and Delacroix.

"We have heard much from the merfolk who have been generous in assisting us, but you make assumptions to the content of such information Governor Delacroix. I ask that you enlighten us as to what it is that you believe we have been told."

He nodded and began to speak. Calca sat by with concern on her brow. This was not how she wanted this to proceed.

"Your Majesty, the Roble Holy Kingdom has been constantly plagued by – apologies – demi-humans from our eastern borders from a region known as Abelion Hills. It is a lawless land filled with numerous tribes constantly at war with each other. The Great Wall was constructed to repel them from entering our borders, but we can hardly man every section of it. As a result of this, we have been assaulted and raided at times. The brutality of which does little to endear them to our people."

"I see. So these prejudices extend to all demi-humnas regardless of their origin? Even those not of Abelion Hills? What of dwarves, elves, and such?"

"The same I'm afraid. We here at Rimun are far away from the eastern border, so it is not as prevalent, but we do have militia and soldiers who go to the wall as a matter of required law. It brings the prejudice mindset back."

The blond woman with tanned skin and emerald green tipped hair spoke next. Her voice was soft and elegant, but held a mischievous undertone.

"So you mean to say that this wall, being manned by a large number of men and women alongside an order of paladins are fighting demi-humans that approach the wall you have. Am I getting that right?"

He nodded and she sighed. Her voice became a level heavier and more serious. There was even an annoyed undertone.

"Governor, Your Majesty Bessarez. Has the thought occurred that perhaps some of their number. Not all of them mind you, but a number of them. Are not invading you intentionally, but fleeing from the hells of that warring region?"

The suggestion made them push back into their seats. The servants who heard this looked to each other in shock. What kind of suggestion was that? Calca frowned as she spoke.

"What do you mean by that exactly?"

"Forgive me. I am Lucretia Merces. Subordinate of Lady Gareth, Dean of Avalon's Mage Academy, and Tactician of Avalon. I mean to say that you over generalize the demi-human populace of this region. Warring tribes have always shown a tendency to drive the more peaceful ones from the region when things escalate beyond tolerable levels for those with no stake, or little power. I wonder how many of them were merely defending themselves from your defenders."

"What?" The very idea of such a thing . . . such a concept never occurred to any present. What kind of mind lay within this woman? A dean of an institution that trained magic casters? A subordinate to the other woman at the table?

Such thoughts would be struck down as heresy by the paladin order and church alike!

"Indeed Lady Merces. I am of a similar opinion. We may not know of the numbers and types of demi-humans, but if any have even remote inklings of a culture and intellect, even they have hierarchies that they follow, regardless of how crude. Though they may not exactly adhere to human standards, children are still children and self preservation exists within everyone. It is natural law. Even other predators will change habitat when something they cannot fight against forces its way upon them."

Calca frowned slightly at the philosophy thrown at them. It was like they spoke from experience. Did that mean that a number of their cities populace was not human?

"You speak as if you have all lived through such a thing before."

They all looked to their queen and she nodded once. The cinnamon haired knight spoke again with hard eyes.

"We have Queen Bessarez. A large percentage of our population is non-human and peaceful citizens of our Queendom. I do not speak merely of elves and dwarves, but fey, hound archons, kitsune, naga, and avian. There are even those of dragon blood, like our Queen. Many of them were forced from their natural homes due to foes they could not fight on their own. For the sake of their little ones and futures, they forged alliances with us, and have returned our kindness many times over."

Calca and Delacroix both froze in their minds for a spell at the man's words. Dragon blooded? Their queen had dragon blood in her veins? Was that the reason for her scales and horns? For her tail and glowing eyes? If that was true, then it was no small wonder that other non-humans would live peaceable with humankind. Such powerful blood running through one's veins was bound to gift them with abilities beyond human reckoning, yet there were others like her?

"I beg forgiveness for the intrusion. Might I ask Your Majesty a question?"

Alicia Delacroix entered and bowed to their guests before seating herself at the table. A handful of servants entered with her carrying pitchers of fresh juice and cold water. Drinking containers were set before everyone at the table and beverages were poured. Artorias nodded to the woman, permitting her to speak.

"I would hope that your people would be willing to work with us for mutual benefit. Though my dear husband and my Queen seem to have forgotten, you are water locked. I cannot imagine that your people will fair long without land to grow crops."

Delacroix and Calca numbly nodded. They had intended to ask if they needed assistance of the sort, but talks of the wall, demi-humans, and political views had begun to cloud all that from view. Alicia had always possessed a talent for keeping him on task. It seemed this would be no different.

There was a subtle smile on the Queen of Knights' face.

"Though my people are sustained by the priesthood and their gracious assistance, the fare is bland and tasteless. My concern was that even should assistance be provided and an accord struck, that your nation's people . . . nay, it's nobility and military may oppose and decry such actions as cessation of territory to a foreign state and use it as an excuse for war. I have no desire to bring such a thing down upon the heads of my people. This was the primary reason for my patrolling forces inquiry of you Queen Bessarez. So I ask you again. Is your kingdom fractured?"

Calca bit the inside of her lip. Delacroix and his spouse gave each other looks and he discreetly shook his head at Alicia. Calca would have to handle this one by herself. They had already come to a personal agreement about what to do, but the Queen did not speak for all of Roble. While unfortunate, they would have to play by their own rules with survival at the highest priority. If the Holy Queen's decision coincided with them, then that was well and good, but if not . . .

"Sadly to say. It is indeed fractured." Calca sighed with a heavy heart. In light of such honest words despite their harshness and surprising nature, she felt that answering otherwise would be both an insult and poor step forward. She decided that such integrity and honest words were best answered with the same. "Our kingdom is separated by a bay that stretches two hundred kilometers long and forty kilometers wide and so many call this the Northern Holy Kingdom and that below the bay the Southern Holy Kingdom."

Another round of silent glances and exchanges were shared among the gathered people from Avalon.

"I assume that this bay influences these differences of opinion in your kingdom?"

Delacroix spoke up in response to the inquiry.

"Other than acting as a natural greographical barrier, it influences relatively little, but the Northern Kingdom has been far more accepting of Queen Calca's reign than the Southern Kingdom. It is predominately male organized and run. Her Majesty ascended to the throne due to her magical abilities and support from the Church. This was met with disapproval by the majority of the Southern Kingdom."

Lucretia spoke again, her eyes analyzing them all the while.

"How long ago was your ascension to the throne Your Majesty?"

"Ten years ago. When I was fifteen."

The group frowned as a whole and Artorias rubbed her chin between thumb and the knuckle of her index finger as she supported the arm's elbow with her other hand. Her glowing eyes closed in thought as she did so. The others struck similar poses as they contemplated what all of this could mean for them in the future. Nearly a decade and they were still divided yet not destroyed?

Was this the end life of a kingdom on the brink of a disastrous end? Houses divided never stood for long regardless of who or how powerful the rulers or people. History proved that time and again and even King Arthur's reign ended the same. Artorias and her friends did not have a good feeling about this Holy Roble Kingdom any more than they already did when the merfolk had spoken of them.

Unknown to the Queen of Roble or the Governor and Governess, Lucretia had cast a few spells upon herself before this meeting. They were mostly detection class and information magic. The overall strength of those they met in this gathering were pathetically weak by comparison. Calca was barely equal to lower level mid-tier casters in their army and PoP forces.

Avalon's military power lay not in the elite units, but the PoPs who were 80% of there total forces. The rest were handcrafted elites and NPCs. The majority of the PoP soldiers and knights were battle homonculi with 30 levels to each one as per the generation rules. They cost nothing to replenish for the guild and the homonculi in their army retained their combat experiences in order to learn. That detail came to light when Lancelot had been speaking with them two days ago. It meant that they could learn and adapt, making them even deadlier.

After learning that bit, the decree was unanimously decided on to allow them their own time to develop a level of individuality and personality. Even though they would be resurrected so to speak if they died in the defense of the kingdom, there was no need to make them feel like cookie cutter soldiers with nothing else to live for. Artorias and Gareth had made a point to speak with many of them to get their opinions and show that they were appreciated. It seemed to pay off so far.

They had also decided to keep the total number of their forces a secret from all foreigners. They did not know the extent of armies in this New World, so keeping their military strength veiled was agreed upon by all in the councils.

The truth was though, that they had more soldiers and knights than civilians. Avalon held a total populace of around 65,000 civilians including children. The total number of PoP forces, while technically unlimited due to the respawn, or in this case, "Auto-Res" mechanic for their army, it took each soldier a full day to come back at full strength. So if the whole army was wiped out in a single day, then the next day they would be back.

All total, their PoP forces alone numbered 150,000 troops with 20% of that number being cavalry. That was only for the fighting personnel. It did not include all the back lines support staff and healers. The Pegasus and Gryphon Knights were elite units and not counted among that number, neither were the mages of the Magic Academy.

A LOT of money had been spent on improving the levels allowed by the game to build their elite units to more resemble a proper fantasy military and the YGGDRASIL devs had loved it. Artorias and Lancelot alone had spent well over what was normal contributing to the development. Draconis and the others had done so as well. Obviously, their were a few other guilds that did similar things, like that one that had copied a great deal of Rome's Legions. Those fights had been legendary when they went to war with other guilds. Yet with coming to this New World, things were different, precautions were being taken. Troops only remained loyal when treated well and appreciated for their hard work and sacrifice. As troops themselves, it went without saying that ignoring such a thing was tantamount to suicide.

Realizing the disparaging power gap in their forces to the Queen of Roble, it wasn't a matter of could their defend themselves if things with Calca fell through the floor, but how nightmarish would such a thing be fore their attackers? Defending was always easier than assaulting in war. Yet Artorias and the others desired to avoid conflict as much as possible. They were the foreigners here in far more than just one way. Maintaining the moral high ground was important for any historians later on. They had seen the hells and punishing realities of past conflicts IRL. They were determined to learn from it and avoid repeating them as well as possible.

Otherwise everyone would suffer.

"Queen Bessarez." Artorias spoke at length. "With the kingdom as fractured as it seems, I am rather hesitant to request succor and aide at the cost of your kingdom: be it in the form of land, food stuffs, or people. Retaliation from anyone who may disagree with any arrangements we make with you will not end well for any involved. It would ruin your reputation – which by what we have heard thus far – is not the greatest in the views of your nobility and Southern half. It also would seem like we were taking advantage of you for a foothold in taking over the Northern Kingdom. With that in mind I do not in all honesty like this situation. It is how civil wars erupt."

Calca grew appalled by such a cold analysis of her nation and its people. Was this the power of a Queen who took hardline stances and had faced untold, nay, unimaginable adversity? Inwardly she wanted to deny that such a thing, that such assumptions would be made by her people, but she knew the nobility enough that the only person she trusted in the Southern Kingdom was Caspond.

Delacroix and his significant other nodded at the woman's words. It was apparent to them that this ruler had made it a point to actively rule her people and fight with her soldiers. Her eyes spoke of harsh realities and having lived and survived through it all. The heaviness in those glowing orbs of hers despite their clarity bespoke of someone who had not sacrificed in vain and still held strong to her beliefs in spite of insurmountable odds. The fact that her entourage nodded with her words with firm conviction told them that they too had fought with her, and believed her cause just enough to keep with her.

"Would there be no other way to assist your people Queen Pendragon?"

"See to your kingdom's fractured state and we shall open talks again Queen Bessarez. In the meantime, your hospitality was gracious Governor, Governess."

Artorias stood and bowed to them, her escorts mimicking her perfectly. They excused themselves and filed out of the room. Delacroix looked to see that not a drop of beverages had been touched. A sign of distrust and loss of interest. This first meeting was a disaster.

As they exited the grounds building, Gareth noticed the disappointed look on her friend's face. Nudging Mordred lightly, she gestured to their friend before walking off to the stables to retrieve their horses. The maids brought them their cloaks.

"You're disappointed by this development."

"I am indeed. It's too much of a powder keg. One match and everything goes up in flame. It isn't a matter of 'if'. It's 'when'. We've been here before. I'll be damned if we stick our noses in this and get blasted for it."

He nodded. They had their people to think of. The size of the bay alone that separated this kingdom in two hinted at naval power. Also having a ruler that was not favored by the majority was a recipe for trouble if he ever saw one. They would have to find allies elsewhere it seemed.

Gareth reappeared with their mounts in tow. The rain had lightened, but it was now dark out. He nodded to her and then whispered lightly to himself.

"[Shadow Guardians]." The spell activated and in the shadows, he could feel the presence of his defensive guardians granted by his Dark Knight class. Four level 50 Shades would react to any attack on the party and the offenders would never know it unless they had special rogue classes or similar skills.

As they mounted up and pulled hoods over heads, two riders entered the gates. The two groups passed by each other, with the two riders looking at them with confused and curious eyes. None of them said a word as they passed by. One out of disinterest, the other in shock of the quality of barding and cloaks.

It was in this manner, that the Custodios sisters would miss the meeting of queens.

Rimun Steets

She had spied them from the rooftops as the boy from the manor had guided them. Her haori and magically treated straw hat shrugged off the rain that fell in sheets earlier. Her eyes had widened when the cloaks had been removed two at a time until the lone rider remained.

The woman matched the tales of her ancestor perfectly! The elegantly swept back horns, the tail and glowing eyes! Her name was the exact same! It was impossible! How did she still live when her ancestor was long passed? The other two with her also matched word for word. Had her ancestor met with immortals?!

Alkaid Ushiwakimaru Kai followed parallel with them in the night as they rode back toward the piers. Did they intend to leave as they came? She couldn't let them go without greeting them herself. Yet something kept her wary and at a distance. The man with red and gray raiments had whispered something and then a quartet of immensely overwhelming forces of the void had made themselves known around her. She could feel it! Dark Magic! Shadow magic from the void that put her own skills to shame! Had they traded cultures and trained together? She had never felt a [Shadow Summon] so strong in her life!

She heard the tales of his kind. A Dark Knight. A warrior who could wield negative energy and shadows like daemons and devils, yet was not one himself. Keeping one's humanity while wielding such power was a balancing act like no other, yet he was having no problems at all.

With shadow creatures so strong that she could feel the pressure they exuded unlike other beings who could not unless they were attuned to the void, she dared not approach carelessly. She had no doubts that these guardians that he had summoned would overwhelm her with their numbers. She felt confident in facing one of them if she had to, but four? Her master would scorn the audacity of such hubris.

The man who summoned them seemed to ride closer to the Queen of Knights as she heard them call her. Shortly afterward, they turned off the main roads to a more isolated area just before the docks. Something felt off. Had she been noticed? Did the shadows he summoned tell him of her presence?

It was so sudden that she nearly yelped as a figure landed heavily in front of her. Faintly registering the sound of steel being drawn, she tensed. It was the man who summoned the shadows that now physically coalesced into existence around her. Completely surrounded, she held her hands up slowly in deference.

"You have been watching us for some time now. You're not some common rabble to know my summons attack range. Who are you girl?"

The man's voice held a calm and collected air. There was no malice or anger, but curiosity if she trusted her senses well enough. Slowly, carefully, she reached up to her hat and removed the accessory from her crown. Not meeting his eyes, she bowed low.

"I was gifted the name of Alkaid Ushiwakimaru Kai. I am a direct descendant of Shin Yoshitsune Kai of clan Bakamatsu Genpei. Honorable knight of Avalon. I was told to keep eyes and ears keen to your presence by order of my esteemed ancestors. Mordred-sama, I am honored to finally meet you and yours."

The man flinched at her introduction and formality. His shadows scattered and two more figures landed around her. She didn't need her eyes to know who these two were. The rain picked back up fiercely.

"Yoshitsune Kai-san? He was pulled here?" A woman spoke in surprise. The other hummed in thought.

"If what you are saying is the truth, then we have much to discuss. More so than with Queen Calca Bessarez. What is your affiliation with this kingdom Alkaid-san?"

Glancing up, she saw the hooded and cloaked figures of Mordred, Gareth, and Artorias. Facing the queen on one knee, she spoke quietly, but concisely.

"I am currently the Adventurer's Guild Leader here in Rimun. I had been wandering far from my home to the south, far more southern than this kingdom's borders. The paladin order and church of this kingdom clash with us on occasion due to misgivings and difference of opinion. My current station is due to the sole reason that I am the strongest adventurer in the nation."

Looks were exchanged at that piece of information. The man spoke again.

"She seems honest enough. Skilled too, my Shades did not register her as a threat even though she was at the edge of the attack range. I think she has Shinobi training on top of whatever else she can do."

"Very well. Alkaid, return with us to Avalon. We have much to discuss. Gareth, change of plans. We don't want to attract the fact that we depart with an extra among us. Prepare the gate."

The three knights jumped off of the rooftop and though two of them were in armor, she barely heard them over the rainstorm. She was impressed. Following suite, she landed silently and bowed to the other four members of their group in respect as they questioned their liege briefly. Artorias reassured each of them before nodding to Gareth. The blond woman nodded in return.

"[Gate]." The portal that opened up before them stunned her. This was a spell that was considered mythical, lost to humankind completely. All the rest of the party save Mordred entered. He then gestured to the portal before her.

"Go through. I will bring up the rear."

Swallowing audibly. She nodded and gathered her courage before stepping into the void . . . and into a grand hall unlike anything she had ever seen even from home. The pillars in the chambers were pure white and despite the rainstorm raging outside, it was peaceful here. Lush carpet covered the floor in its entirety in velvety blue and gold. The table before them was rectangular and had several chairs arranged around it. The servants did not even appear to be phased that such a portal spat out people with no warning.

Cloaks were taken and whispered greetings exchanged. They spoke to the servants like friends and family, smiles were traded, even a laugh or two from a few of them. Such powerful individuals were speaking with servants no different than equals. A light clearing of a throat behind her made her turn to see a young maiden with flax brunette hair in a maid's outfit motion to her haori and hat.

"If I may? You are a guest of the Queen." She did not know whether or not to shed her coat, though she did hand over her hat. At her hesitance, the maid smiled. "If it is the storage of your haori, we have experienced staff that will see that it is stored properly."

She was stunned, they knew what her coat was called and even had proper storage equipment for it? Even knowing that her ancestor knew and was friends with these people, it was so long ago! They had not spoken or seen each other for ages. How did they still know about her homeland's culture? Had a few of her clan's ancestors remained here in Avalon?

"My apologies. You have my thanks." She shed her haori and the young woman took it reverently.

"Please have a seat Alkaid-san. You are my guest. It may not be much, but we do have enough to provide refreshments. This is quite the surprising occasion after all."

She politely accepted as she took a seat. The chairs were quite comfortable. Masterfully crafted by an excellent carpenter if her eyes saw true. The wood was stained wonderfully and the cushions were soft and thick. Though goblets of drink were brought out to them, a familiar aroma wafted past her senses. She looked to the servant attending her and was surprised again. A clay cup with steaming drink and an earthen tea kettle was placed before her.

"I assumed you would prefer ocha. That is a drink from your homeland I assume?"

Ocha, or green tea was indeed a staple of her homeland, but she had not had any in so long! She missed the beverage she enjoyed with her family. This was proof assured that her ancestor had indeed been friends with these people. That the queen would be so considerate and even bother to remember such a trivial detail astounded her! Carefully taking up the hot cup, she sipped it slowly and the bitter drink warmed her from the rain's cold. The mellow aftertaste soothed her nerves and refreshed her mind. Then she felt it and gasped. She felt invigorated, mental fatigue shed from her being and she felt oddly limber. What was this? She bowed after she placed the cup back on its tray.

"I am honored that you would remember such a little thing about my ancestor and his traditions."

Amused chuckled came from the rest of the table.

"You have my husband to thank for such details. He was always fond of cultural exchanges and loved learning of other nations."

Husband? Alkaid's eyes widened. Did that mean that Avalon had a king as well? Tales never said anything of a king in their past. Was this a recent development? What caliber of man could win such a powerful woman's heart so? It seemed like he was well traveled, or they had many foreign envoys in the past. Perhaps he lead expeditions abroad?

"My ancestors did not mention a king to match you Your Majesty. Has this been a recent development?"

Those at the table smirked or smiled at their queen as she chuckled to herself with a smile. Alkaid noticed that the servants nodded respectfully. It was obvious that whoever this man was, he was held in high esteem.

"No it is not. I have been happily married to him long before Avalon was established. He is off in another country at the moment assisting their populace in their hour of need. Always the protector, that one."

Her smile was wistful and filled with fondness of the man she spoke of. Mordred grinned toothily as he nodded in agreement. Gareth sighed and shook her head fondly. Yet for their reactions to her words, Alkaid clenched her gut.

Since before the Queendom's establishment? But Avalon in the tales was standing long before my ancestor established Bakamatsu Genpei as a great clan! We have over 300 years of history . . . she's been the same ruler with this king for longer than their own nation has stood? How long have they ruled? How many wars have they fought and still stood against time itself?

The implications of such an experienced veteran of both battle and politics was staggering. It was no small wonder that she ended talks with Calca Bessarez so quickly and decisively. They had probably seen such things time and again.

"Despite my marriage to him, do not assume Avalon has a king."

Artorias's voice surprised her. Her husband wasn't a ruler? It seemed like she saw the confusion in Alkaid's eyes and spoke further.

"He refused to take a seat of ruler ship. Rather, he took the position of a guardian to Avalon and its staunchest ally. His personal forces used to dwell in the mountains just outside our fair city. Alas, we have been separated by magic unknown to us and placed here. We still can communicate with each other, but we feel like our homes are distant now. Once he finishes assisting those he has found in need close to his demesne, he will be making efforts to return to me. I do not hold his beliefs of protection and succor against him. It is one of his strongest points."

Mountains? Was he some kind of monk? A hermit swordsman in charge of a monastery that allowed marriage?

"Forgive my intrigue Your Majesty, but who is the man you call husband?"

A beaming smile radiated from the woman and Alkaid found it hard to not abase herself in the face of such a benevolent gaze.

"Draconis Brightblade is my husband's name."

Her eyes widened in stupefaction.

Draconis Brightblade . . . the Dragon Swordsman of Avalon?! Even knowing and seeing this here and now I never dreamed that he was real! The tales of Avalon are one thing, but a great dragon in human form who's swordsmanship matched ancestor Yoshitsune's blow for blow? Even our most faithful back home only believe him to be myth inside myth! No, there was one of our great clans that did believe it true. The clan of foreigners to our land that had integrated into our people's society. The Ryuu Oni, the Spiritual Swordsmen and Mana Blades.

"It seems like you have heard of him. Perhaps through the stories from Yoshitsune-san?"

This time, she did stand and bow.

"Forgive me! I have heard of the tales and legends passed down for generations in my clan, but I never had put much stock into them. Your queendom's appearance and meeting you had begun to change my beliefs, but even then I did not once believe the tales of Draconis Brightblade-sama to be true."

Frowns were worn across the room. Artorias looked to her friends in concern. Gareth put a delicate hand to her chin in thought before a sudden realization came across her face. The woman turned to Alkaid.

"Please relax. I have a question for you."

Alkaid did so and curious concern could be seen on Gareth's face.

"You mentioned that Yoshitsune-san is not with you anymore?" A nod answered her and they appeared crestfallen. "How long ago was his passing?"

"Two hundred and forty years ago. Master Shin Yoshitsune Kai-sama passed in his sleep of old age at seventy-eight."

A hand went to Gareth's mouth in shock as she looked to Artorias. Mordred's frown deepened and he bit his lip. Artorias paled a slight bit. She spoke evenly, but Alkaid frowned at her words.

"Could we all have been moved not just physically, but across time itself? What of the other guilds and kingdoms? How did we manage to remain within the same era?"

Mordred shook his head, having no idea how to answer that. Gareth seemed to be saying a silent prayer. It seemed like her ancestor was beloved to them. It made her proud to know that he was so well respected and honored even now by those not even of her homeland.

Artorias sighed and seemed to sag in her chair a bit. A sad expression crossed her face and Alkaid recognized it. The grief of one who has lost family.

"Dammit Yoshitsune . . ." It was then that she could not believe her ears. Crying . . .

The Queen was crying. But why? Was her ancestor so beloved that a person of such legendary standing would weep and mourn his passing?

"Mordred, Gareth. Excuse me. Continue to speak with Alkaid."

The queen stood and exited the chambers swiftly. One of the servants followed her liege in concern. Gareth and Mordred watched her go before turning to her with sympathetic expressions.

"Forgive Artorias. There is something you should know Alkaid, and it makes you very important to our Queen with what you have informed us of."

She braced herself. She had made the queen cry with her news, yet they held no malice towards her, rather . . . endearment? She was confused as the servants were dismissed. Once they had all left, Mordred rose from his seat and drew a blade from a portal he reached into. Her eyes couldn't believe what she was seeing.

A Seven Blade Sword. A weapon of such power that any who managed to forge one were considered masters of their craft. Yet this was more sublime than anything she had witnessed in her homeland. Each tip of each blade was crested in a different gemstone. The blade was inlaid with gold and silver. The cross guard was a pale, oceanic blue and the grip was wrapped in silk so fine that it looked like a fortune was spent in it. The pommel was diamond and sapphire.

"Do you recognize this weapon?"

She shook her head negatively.

"This was gifted to Artorias by Yoshitsune long ago. It was a gift of friendship and a sign of our alliance. But to her it was something more. It was a wedding gift when she and Draconis married."

The words took the wind from her sails. Her ancestor was at their wedding? So he was really even older than seventy-eight? Several hundred?!

"To clear your confusion, Draconis and Yoshitsune knew each other long before Avalon's creation. He had told Draconis to give it to her if he was not able to show up for the wedding, which ended up not being the case as he was able to attend. It touched her to no end. For Artorias's father was not alive to present her to Draconis as was proper. Nor was her mother alive either, her adoptive brother, was though."

Mordred nodded at Gareth's words. They were having to translate their real world lives into game history and telling this was not easy for them. The very existence of Alkaid was something none of them had pondered yet. Could they have children here in this New World? Was it possible? With the woman before them, they had their answer. Yet it was at the cost of someone very dear to their close friend.

Yoshitsune's real life player was Artorias's brother in real life. Draconis would be devastated to hear that his brother-in-law was dead. They knew they would have to check up on Artorias later and send Draconis the news as soon as they could. Delaying it would be very, very bad. They spun the adoptive brother story due to the racial difference between them. Yoshitsune had chosen to be a human for the extra class levels. They never expected a development like this.

"What? You mean that . . . ?"

They nodded as one.

"Your ancestor was the adoptive brother of our queen."

DUN DUN DUUUUUUUN . . . . . . . . . . . . ! Revelations!

Character Profile 11

Esdeath

Grotesque

Position: Huntress of The Lair, Ice Maiden of Fimbulvetr

Residence: The Lair, Confinement Crystal of Nazarick (Released)

Alignment: Neutral-Evil (Code of Honor), (-200 Karma)

Racial Levels: Yuki-onna = 15 lvs.; Snow Fiend = 10 lvs.; Ice Myth = 5 lvs.

Class Levels: Hunter = 15 lvs.; Monster Slayer = 10 lvs.; Frost Mystic = 10 lvs.; White Death = 5 lvs.; Brawler = 15 lvs.; Berserker = 10 lvs.; Juggernaut = 5 lvs.

Total Levels: 100 [Racial Levels 30/Class Levels 60]

Status: Comparative Ratio on a Scale of 100

HP: 125

MP: 60

Physical Attack: 95

Physical Defense: 80

Dexterity: 70

Magical Attack: 50

Magical Defense: 50

Resistances: 65

Special: 100

No reviewer response this chapter everyone. More or less many of you had similar reviews so yeah. I agree and when the pot of stew ala Remedios's comeuppance is ready, it will be glorious. ANYWAY. Thanks to all of you reviewers out there!

Nest chapter swings back Draconis's way and even Ainz gets some time now that the preliminary set ups or more or less well founded!

Thoughts? Concerns? Ideas? Send them my way! Till nest time folks!