*A/N: Sorry for the delay with this chapter. I had computer issues, my hard drive went bad. Some of the story was lost unfortunately so I'm rebuilding it from memory. As such the installments may take a bit longer than the rather quick pace I had been keeping. It may be slower going forward but it is going forward. Hope you continue to enjoy the story.*
There was no hesitation this time, passing through the magic gate was as simple as taking any other step. As expected, Lakyus was once again in the hall of Rantel's Residence. A quick glance outside confirmed her instinct; time had passed, and it was dark outside. Taking a step away from where she knew Ainz would soon emerge, she noticed Albedo still stood in the hall in the exact position she was in when Lakyus left. When Ainz did emerge, Albedo fell to her knees in welcoming her lord.
"Did you see that our guests were shown to rooms? At this hour I am unsure if they would rather stay here or the Pavilion."
From Lakyus position, she saw Albedo smile before answering. "Of course, my lord, your will is absolute. There was some hesitation but your servant Keeno assured the others and I had the maids lead the way. I chose to wait for your return, Lord Ainz."
The answer seemed to surprise Ainz, but she couldn't hear his thoughts. "Of course. I have put off some duties long enough, would you be so kind as to show Lakyus to her waiting companions?"
"If it is your will, it shall be so," Albedo's reply was strangely soft. Does she fancy Ainz?
Ainz gave a parting look to Lakyus. "I look forward to seeing you again, once your choices have been made. Farewell." Without awaiting a reply, he strode away and exited the side hall he had entered. While at first, I feared him for the possible manipulations, now that I know so much more, I can't help but see the tragedy he carries.
As he left, Albedo stood to meet her, and somehow her smile was no longer joyous, but rather teasing like Albedo was in on a joke the whole world had missed. "Will you follow me?"
Is this the one I should have feared? "Yes, please lead the way Lady Albedo."
The walk was short but quiet, and before long Keeno was seen at rest on a wooden bench down a corridor. Before the two could reunite Albedo cut in. "I trust you can take care of your friend from here, Keeno?"
Again, without waiting for a reply she strode away, to what ends Lakyus could only guess. Instead, Lakyus spoke to Keeno. "I hope I didn't keep you up; being so late, I imagine the others went to bed already."
"Lakyus, undead need no sleep. Besides, I wonder if any of the others could sleep with you being all alone with the big bad Sorcerer King." Keeno grinned before standing.
Damn, I should have asked just how much Keeno knows! "They had no cause to fear. The King was cordial, friendly even. More so than Albedo I must admit."
"She is protective of him. She would rather wade through a river of blood than let him come to harm. What's more," sighing before continuing, "I don't think she is fond of humans. I am somewhat more tolerated because, well, I'm not human."
"In any case, you know where the others are?"
"Sure do. They each were given rooms along this hall, one held in reserve for you at the end if you chose to take it. It isn't too late, they may still be awake. Shall we try the doors?"
"I feel like we would be fine here, but it would be best to gauge the others. Let's go."
After a series of light knocks, it was found that they were all still awake, whiling away the time as each chose. Once her Roses were collected, it was decided the Pavilion would be the better choice if, for no other reason, they would feel more comfortable there.
Asking a maid to escort them to the entrance, there was some surprise that the coach from earlier was where it was left, Sebas standing at the ready as always. Did Ainz command him to prepare in case we wanted to leave? The thoughtful, gentlemanly, heroic, tragic undead king. Poor Ainz and the masks he wears.
The ride back was much the same as before. While Keeno and herself were calm, the other three were agitated, but as the Residence was left, some of the tension bled off. Before long, they were back in the heart of Rantel at the Pavilion.
As ever the perfect gentleman, Sebas opened the door and helped them all down. "Keeno, Lakyus. Lord Ainz wanted me to give you both letters. It was requested the contents are not shared." Producing from a jacket pocket two sealed envelopes with the mark of the Sorcerer King in deep purple wax, the letters were given over. "Now I take my leave. I look forward to seeing you all again. Farewell." After a brief bow, he again took the reigns. While the streets were still somewhat busy, it was clear that the carriage still carried the authority seen before, various people making haste to get out of the way and before long, they lost sight of the carriage.
Before they were able to take a step, Gagaran nearly exploded. "By all the gods, what took you so long Lakyus?! You have no idea how concerned we were!"
Ignoring the outburst Lakyus led the way. "I made a solemn oath before you all. I intend to keep it. All I will say is that it was a cordial meeting and no harm came to me." It rather went without saying I couldn't hope to harm Ainz.
"Boss that oath is non-binding, you were forced into it!"
Now that is a desperate stretch if I've ever heard one. "Don't be silly Gagaran. I spoke the words of my own will. The only reason there was a private audience was because I requested it, and the King was gracious enough to give it." The revelation that the gods may have just been humans as strong as Ainz does nothing to lessen my belief in my own promises. Even if the gods never existed, I would honor my word.
As the team made their way toward the entrance a light spring shower began to come down from the darkened sky. Entering, a manservant made his way to Lakyus. I just want to dwell on what I learned, what now?
"Welcome back Blue Rose. While you were away, a message arrived for you. From the vice-captain of the southern gate." Holding yet another letter, unsealed, she could guess at the contents. Gagaran always picking fights, one with Novik and one with a Death Knight.
"Thank you very much, but I believe this should go to Gagaran."
After a moment of surprise from Gagaran, she accepted the hand-written letter without protest.
It seemed that the visit with the Sorcerer King was wearing on them all, and the team quietly made their way to the suite. Once inside, Keeno and Lakyus separated from the main group to read these secret letters. Maybe Keeno would entrust the knowledge of hers with me, but I cannot count on it. But what does this say…
"Lakyus,
Keeno will be your point of contact going forward should you decide to stay in the Sorcerer Kingdom. I appreciate her discretion as I do yours.
Concerning Novik. I leave the details concerning Gagaran's challenge to your judgment. I would encourage you to not make it a battle to the death. Gagaran has died once before, it would trouble me if she did so again.
The last thing I will entrust to this letter is Gagaran's other request. It has been brought to my attention she would like a team to fight against a Death Knight. Speak to Commander Leinas Rockbruise. I have given her authority over this matter. She will have the details if Blue Rose decides to take the challenge. I recommend you don't.
Just as I entrusted knowledge to you, I also entrust the decisions on these challenges. Keep your companions safe, and best of luck. Once you are satisfied with this letter, please give it to the nearest flame."
How did he know she died before? No matter. Since he is giving me the option of simply denying this knowledge to the others, should I just say that the requests were denied? No, as much as I want Gagaran to be safe, I will not lie to her to make it so. But maybe about the Death Knight? I'll think about that one.
Glancing about, Keeno was still reading. Detailed instructions? Instead, she directed her attention to Gagaran. "So, what is your message about, Gagaran?"
"I could ask you the same," Gagaran pouted, "but I know you won't answer." Guess that will be a sore spot for a while. "It is from Novik. It is a letter of thanks for my intervention. Besides the thanks, he asked for us to visit soon so 'that honor can be satisfied'."
"Want to visit tomorrow? It seems he starts his shift in the mid-morning. And did you want it to just be you two?"
She rubbed her chin and for a moment she was reminded of Ainz doing that gesture. "It does seem kind of unfair for it to be me and a team against him. At least he sees it as a fight for honor. Should I also?"
"You don't have to decide right now, but I would like for you to make this decision. Want to sleep on it?"
"That might be smart. I feel tired anyway. That visit and the waiting took it out of me. I'm about to crash."
"We all are probably feeling that, but dinner first!"
At the mention of food, the twins headed to the kitchen area to prepare the evening meal. The mood was subdued and peaceful, and Lakyus didn't notice when Keeno finished her letter, but they both disposed of their documents. Quiet and fulfilled, the team headed off to rest.
As always, the cruel morning came too early. Today Lakyus was the first to rouse and chose to start on breakfast for everyone. The smell of bacon seemed to wake the others and they joined in the feast.
"I made a decision," Gagaran stated firmly after finishing breakfast.
"Share with the rest of the class," Tina teased.
"Novik and I will fight alone. I am the one who spoke up, I want to be the only one to fight. Besides, it will be fun to test my strength against his. Win or lose, I think it will be fun."
"Sound enough logic," said Tia, ever sparse with words.
"When to call though is something that still eludes me. The south gate must be one of the busier gates, he is likely going to be on his way there soon. Should I rush to get there, or wait until after? But that runs the risk of him being tired, not at full strength. I want him at his best."
"A fair concern," Lakyus thought. "Perhaps meet just before his shift? He would be fully rested as you are, and since the King signed off on this, it is unlikely the captain would object, or so I'd think."
"That's why you are the boss, boss." Without another word, Gagaran began to equip her panoply of war.
"Gagaran, mind if you have an audience?"
"Sure, but I'm going soon so be quick about getting ready!"
Today may not be a good day for a dress. Why is she in such a rush, we have plenty of time.
After gearing up, Blue Rose left the inn. This day greeted them with a bright, shining sun and only a few clouds remained dancing in the sky after last night's downpour and the city was glistening from the remaining water. They chose to leave the horses to rest; they had been ridden hard the past week. Walking through the streets on foot would always be a reminder on just how many races were in Rantel, and occasionally a Death Knight or Elder Lich.
The trip took just a little longer but soon enough the third wall was visible, as was the gaping maw of the southern gate. Guessing at the time, she assumed they had beat Novik prior to the shift change. Upon arrival, Gagaran asked to see the captain. He had been in his office within one of the gatehouses and chose to meet Blue Rose in the crisp, moist morning air.
"Morning, Blue Rose. How can Achides assist you this fine day?" The man was old enough to begin going grey, but he had an energy to him and a toothy grin that didn't want to leave his face. The smile however would never make up for the terrible scar on his face which partially disfigured him. Lakyus decided to let Gagaran take the lead here. And duly, she spoke up.
"Morning, Achides. Novik and I discussed a duel and was asked to meet him when I wanted to fight. I hope I beat him here?"
"Yes, you did. His shift starts shortly. But miss, I need to ask you something. First, you are aware of his strength?" The captain didn't quite balk at the talk of a duel, but that smirk was gone.
"I've heard he is strong, yes. I'd not accept a fight with someone I didn't think could handle my Fel Iron."
"It is more than that. He is less than Momon, all men are. But he is at least as strong as an adamantite front liner. And his style is… well if you are wanting to fight it would be in bad taste to give anything away. At the very least, I'm going to ask that this fight take place away from civilians. I'll need to think on that for a bit. But the other question, did you get permission from the King for this fight?"
"Of course, was at his Residence when I offered him a fight and Ainz Ooal Gown said to make it so."
"The King gave her approval for the fight," Lakyus interjected. "We had an audience with him yesterday. Is this going to be a problem?" When I saw the orichalcum half plate I knew he had to be a formidable warrior.
"Well, if the King approved then it isn't my place to say nay. I'll have you fight outside the walls. Hostilities inside are likely to catch the attention of the Death Knights and that is certain death. But if the king gave permission and you are aware of his strength, then I won't disallow it. Was that all you needed from me?"
"Yeah, I think so," Gagaran sounded uncertain now and glanced at Lakyus who gave a slight nod.
"Best of luck ladies!" turning away, his chuckling could still be heard.
Jovial. "Gagaran, you still wish to fight? Achides seems honest and I'd hate for this to be too much."
"Well, being compared to Momon is no small feat, but how big of a difference is there? That is a lot of wiggle room," Gagaran confessed as some curiosity colored her voice.
Ainz did write that he left the conditions in my hands. But I want her to lay down the rules. "Time to start thinking about rules then. Achides said outside the walls for safety sake. I doubt either of you wants to kill each other either, right?" Long ago Lakyus learned the art of giving orders as suggestions.
"True," Gagaran conceded. "Yeah, rules. Outside, not to the death, one on one, what else…oh, starting distance? Say, 10 meters? Yeah, that sounds okay. Would one of you be willing to give the signal for the fight?" The rules were rapid fire, but all of them Lakyus agreed with.
"You do have one advantage, and I hate to say it, but do you want to rule out no strikes between the legs?" It still hurts us ladies, but not quite as crippling as it would Novik.
That seemed to stump Gagaran; desires for victory and a fair fight likely at war in her mind. "I…he…I'd say surely he has protection but at our strength what would that help… Argh, it is so true it is an advantage, but I want to win fair! No, no hits to the groin. He might be a cherry boy after all," she spoke as if that justified everything. Some things never change do they old friend?
Time passed, Gagaran began some shadow practice to limber up after the rules had been laid down to satisfaction. The twins decided to look at the nearby shops to kill a little time, and Keeno was just leaning against the base of the wall, arms crossed. But before long Novik arrived and the twins were not far from his shadow.
When he reached his post, there was some mild surprise written on his face. "Gagaran, I hadn't expected to see you so soon. I trust the staff got my letter to you?"
"Sure did. Being honest, I want a fight to blow off steam, so I wanted to get here before you and yes, already cleared it with your boss!" She spoke with her face beaming with a smile.
Lakyus couldn't help but inspect Novik once again. He really likes the gold motif, Lakyus thought. The gold orichalcum and dim white leather go well with the blonde hair. Reflected in the morning light, he is nearly golden himself.
Hearing that the preparations were already complete seemed to be another surprise for him. "Well if you already cleared things with Achides then, shall we discuss the details?"
They went over the rules together. All told it was not much. Outside the walls. Away from civilians. Not to the death. No hits to the groin. Novik added some extra conditions to specify things: at least one witness signal the beginning of the fight, no accessories like potions and no sneak attacks like dirt in the eyes. He wants this clean.
As the rules were agreed upon, Novik's face slowly brightened with a smile. "Good, good, this will be fun. Are any of your companions joining us?"
"No, only ones to tussle is going to be us. If there's nothing more to prepare, let's go?" Gagaran's voice sounded not quite giddy but close. Hearing it was only Gagaran, his smile dimmed ever so fractionally.
Gagaran, he isn't ready, why can't you see? "He still needs to collect his arms, I assume there is an armory in the guard house."
"No, those in the guard have rules but within those rules, we have some flexibility concerning armaments. Like if we want to customize our weapons for example. Everything I need is on me. Follow me, we will find a suitable place."
Blue Rose was led by the vice-captain through the already swelling tide of merchants and foot traffic. As they walked Lakyus considered his words. He has everything on him? He just has armor. No, he does have that chain of orichalcum about the waist as well. Does he just fight with a chain? I'm not even sure if it is supposed to be a weapon or not. I bet the others are wondering the same. That night at the Pavilion, he didn't have a sword on him I thought because it was to see us. Guess I was wrong?
As the warrior questions faded, the group was just outside the walls of Rantel and the morning sun shining from the east had begun its climb from the horizon. Here the grass glimmered like thousands of diamonds were strewn about. The light of the sun made the field radiant. It didn't take long to find a nice piece of field, flat and unoccupied save for the grass and the morning dew.
"So, rule master, do you want an arena lining as well?"
"Ah you jest Gagaran," a light chuckle escaped his lips. "I think this will serve us well for the match. If it is alright with you?"
"Nothing fancy, but it will do. Just a friendly sparring match. This is basically a vacation for us anyway."
"Then let me make it interesting for you. Well, more interesting."
Ainz hasn't been subtle about this man. He has been enhanced, strengthened somehow with magic. Is Novik's strength another experiment gone right? At a glance this is going to be a contest of power against experience, Lakyus thought. She had seen Gagaran through battle after battle and knew full well what the woman could do with Fel Iron, her famous war pick. Her fighting instincts were very considerable. With some trepidation, Lakyus felt her heart beat a little faster.
Gagaran and Novik had already laid out the rules. They knew where to go. Lakyus agreed to signal the start of the challenge with Keeno, Tia and Tina watching. Meeting the fighters mid-way but far enough to the side to not get stuck in the crossfire, Lakyus idly wondered what was about to happen. "Ready, begin!"
Gagaran assumed a guard position and began incanting martial arts. "[Ability Boost], [Greater- "
Before the second art left her lips Novik shot at her like an arrow. "[Rune of Wind], [Flow Acceleration]," spoken just above a whisper as his fist struck Gagaran barehanded. As Gagaran stumbled back, a powerful kick struck out her right shin, but Lakyus didn't hear anything break, yet.
"[Reposition]," Gagaran's body instantly regained composure, and Novik didn't continue the assault. Instead, he paced slowly around.
"Good recovery. Do your enemies usually let you chant all your arts unopposed? If so, I will not be able to extend that courtesy."
"[Greater Ability Boost], [Flow Acceleration]," Gagaran spoke as she began madly swinging the war pick and Lakyus could see the problem right away. He was too nimble.
Swing after swing was released, all missing as the pair danced backward. On the tenth swing, Novik lunged forward with his hands on her own weapon, knee in her torso; Gagaran grunted audibly from the impact. He tried to spin away, out of her reach but the war pick had greater range than he covered; a glancing blow struck his right shoulder with an audible crack.
A satisfied growl escaped Gagaran as she caught her breath. "Heh, bet that is a dislocation."
Despite the injury, Novik smiled. "Feels like it. [Dull Pain], [Rune of Fire], [Rune of Wind]." Ignoring his the pain from his right arm his fists glowed as if aflame. Before he had been smooth as water, now he was the raging bull with one flaming strike after another lashing Gaze Bane. The armor glowed where he struck her plate armor. It didn't take long for sweat to begin running down Gagaran's face like a river. Heat is ever the enemy of a warrior in a fight, a way to pull an enemy down into fatigue.
It is hard to dodge multiple limbs with both hands on a weapon, Lakyus thought as she saw the searing strikes from his hands and kicks coming so fast they seemed to blur. She can trust her armor more than Novik, but that metal is getting hot quick.
The blows rained down. Eventually, the flames died. As they did, the man jumped and rolled as far away as he could in a rush. The sudden change of pace was unexpected, and Gagaran pursued. Novik planted himself, reading for the armored charge of the mountainous woman. He stood in place until the last moment. Then there was a flurry of movement. If Lakyus herself didn't have the eyes of an eagle she may have missed what happened. When Gagaran raised Fel Iron for a crushing blow, Novik stepped inside the range of her weapon. Suddenly the chain was no longer around his waist but around Gagaran's weapon.
"[Rune of Earth], [Reposition]." With a powerful yank, Fel Iron was wrenched from her grasp, an armored boot struck her right shin again. This time there was a crack and a growl escaped Gagaran's lips. "[Runic Strike]," Novik intoned. With Gagaran now behind him his left fist struck the side of her head as he released the length of chain; both the chain of orichalcum and Fel Iron took flight. Blood sprayed from Gagaran's jaw and ear where the blow connected.
She pitched backward as he again dove away. With Gagaran stunned, he braced his dislocated shoulder. "[Rune of Water]," and with a muffled grunt he got the shoulder back in place, resetting it with an audible pop. "That hurts, even with the runes. [Rune of Wind], [Rune of Fire]." Again his limbs were ablaze. Gathering as much speed as he could, he charged and let loose flying kick towards Gagaran's torso.
"[Invincible Fortress]," Gagaran intoned as she saw the flaming man flying towards her.
It was surprisingly amusing as Novik's momentum betrayed him. The fighters were thrown away from each other with great force when his kick collided with her chest. Gagaran fell onto her back; Novik fell with his face in the grass.
As one they both began laughing, subsiding only as they rose to face each other again. "Smart, hah, that would have cost you some ribs," Novik joked lightly, incongruous with the fierce struggle just a moment ago.
"My Gaze Bane has seen worse than your foot, boy." Despite the taunt and blood weeping down her face, Gagaran had a smile.
For a moment they just stared at each other, muscles tensing. This will be the last bit of this fight, and Gagaran is disarmed! Lakyus had faith in her friend, but a disarmed warrior never bode well.
"[Pace of Wind]," Gagaran dove for her war pick-
"[Rune of Wind]," Novik rushed to intercept-
And that was when Lakyus was certain he held back. He didn't use [Flow Acceleration]; he let her rearm herself.
As Fel Iron was reclaimed, before her body fully hit the ground, Gagaran spun mid-air and struck him solidly in the chest with the blunted end of the war pick; for a moment, Novik flew. He landed with a heavy crash a few meters away.
Gagaran was panting and Lakyus wondered if she hadn't killed him with that heavy blow against only partial plate armor.
"[Rune of Water]," he intoned through gritted teeth. He seemed to go from completely disabled to only gravely injured. With an obvious effort, Novik worked himself onto a knee. "I yield." The words seemed aimed at nobody in particular. His hair was now nearly black, matted with sweat as blood dripped from both sides of his mouth. "Lakyus, as the witness, do you hear my yield?"
Lucky bastard, that act nearly killed you. "I hear you yield, and the challenge is over."
"Thank the Gods, why the shin?! That hurt," Gagaran complained as she downed a blue health potion.
"Tricks of the trade." Novik pulled a deep purple vial from a satchel and drank. Another experiment, Ainz? You truly have been preparing.
"Good fight, Gagaran. Impressive that a glancing blow was enough to dislocate a shoulder. Rumors of your strength are not exaggerated." With the fight over he seemed genuinely happy and content.
"It was a close thing though. Your style focused on disabling strikes and distraction. A flaming fist in the face had my eyes parched and out of focus," Gagaran complained.
"A disabled foe is one already half dead."
"That is true," Gagaran said as she began to down another health potion. Stronger beings need more potions to fully heal, yet Novik had only the one potion. So that would imply that Novik is much weaker, or that potion of his is much stronger.
"True. I got to say, that was pretty relaxing." As the pain resided, Gagaran had a similarly happy expression. She is right, she had been melancholy she has been trying to hide since we first got to Rantel and Achides gave us the challenge. Maybe this is exactly what she needed.
The fighters stood to collect themselves. Dirt, dust, and displaced grass was all over the place. Parts of the grass had been burned. With the morning dew, those flames had to have been intense. Novik paced to reclaim the chain he kept around his waist, as Gagaran wiped the blood from her war pick. As they dusted themselves off, Lakyus strode over to the twins and Keeno.
"I want your honest opinions," Lakyus spoke in hushed tones. "Was it just me, or did he hold back?"
"Sis and I had the same thought. I don't think Gagaran noticed," Tina mused quietly. "He could have kept her disarmed. That water thing seems to revitalize himself. If so, despite the blow, shouldn't he have been able to go longer?"
"Maybe. But Novik didn't seem the type to be mean like that though with holding back," Tia replied.
Glancing back over her shoulder, Lakyus saw the two talking animatedly and she understood. "He wasn't mean, it was a kindness." Looking back, she continued, "We all saw how anxious and dejected Gagaran has been here in Rantel. Look at her now."
"You think he took Fel Iron to the chest to be nice?" Even spoken quietly Tia sounded incredulous.
"Well, the water rune seemed to revitalize. The wind rune made him much faster. Fire strengthened his blows, besides the actual fire. Earth did what? Gave him enhanced strength?" That's what it looked like at least.
"That seems right. Martial arts I've never heard of. Maybe he developed them? Not the hardest thing to do in the world. Since he held his own against Gagaran, surely he is capable of that," Tina opined.
"Achides said he was less than Momon but stronger than a standard adamantite front liner. And he wanted to fight the four of us at first." Tia couldn't deny how it looked.
"Does it matter? Gagaran is happy again, just let her have the win," Keeno spoke after being quiet for a while now.
"I can understand that. We agree to not say anything more to Gagaran for now?" Tina confirmed.
The ladies all nodded, and they began moving back to the once enemies who were now laughing together. "Novik, don't you have a job or something?" Keeno teased.
"Ah, after this I'm going to need a bit to rest, I might get Achides to give me light duty today but yes, we should make our way back."
"Lead us on, victorious Rose," Lakyus suggested.
As they went back the way they came Lakyus asked the twins to occupy Gagaran while she maneuvered herself close to Novik. When she thought Gagaran was out of earshot, she asked quietly. "Did you let her win?"
He was silent for a moment before answering. "Yes, I did. You wonder why? I was given separate sets of orders. I was between a rock and a hard place. The only way I saw forward caused you all turmoil. That was never my intent. And you see her now, she is happy. It just took a hammer to the chest."
Lakyus couldn't disagree. Gagaran now had a pep in her step she didn't have before, but the thought of a tainted victory still rankled her. "And you don't want me telling?"
"It would defeat the purpose of all this. If more of the team had fought I may have gone all out. Against just her, it would have just put her in a darker place."
That's what I expected. He did the wrong thing for the right reason and it worked. Now I just have to decide if I ever let the truth out. I wonder if Ainz ever has this problem.
Without another word they continued. They came to the guard tower again. Parting with Novik, Blue Rose truly had nothing to do.
Keeno has been 'rescued', I had both a general and personal audiences with Ainz. All the things I wanted when I set out here I have now. After that meeting, I've given considerable thought to relocating to Rantel. But Climb and Renner would be so far away. Even if magic can be used to visit they will feel farther away. I do have family there, but no real relationships. I think the girls would follow me and Keeno, but I don't know.
Advent. That was the word Ainz used, the opening of our world to another, the ultimate challenge. Just how many times has this phenomenon wiped clean the history of our world? That Earth had over twelve thousand years of civilization, we barely have six hundred. Ainz represents the first real chance to stop the destruction that could come, that has come, forever. I may not be alive when it happens, but others will. I want to have a hand in the preparations, but how? These beings are almost unbelievably powerful…
Pulling herself away from the building sense of impotence, Lakyus addressed the team. "Well, we are free for a while. As Gagaran said this is something of a vacation. Anybody want to do something in particular?"
Gagaran spoke first. "Well, I actually have something planned. Novik and I are having lunch, and who knows after that."
"Well, okay. You only date the guys you beat bloody?" Keeno and her sharp tongue…
"It helps I admit," she had a wide grin.
"Fine, Gagaran is spoken for, probably for the day. Twins?"
"We thought we'd try and find a nice tavern. Part some fools from their coin." Tia always was good at gambling and hanging in with a rough crowd.
"Keeno?"
"Nothing planned. Though there are some things I think we should talk about, in private."
*A/N: As promised, this is the first fight of any kind I've ever written. I don't have much confidence in my ability to write an action scene but I tried my best. I tried to give it play by play to help visualize exactly what the fighters are doing. I hope it came out clearly and more importantly I hope it was entertaining. Thoughts, comments, reviews, favorites and follows are always welcome. Especially reviews.*