Chapter 33: Convergence
A team of five consisting of Lucifer, Samuel, Shalltear, and Jigsaw had been traversing the sprawling caverns of Eryuentiu for nearly an hour now with Neia at front guiding them through the labyrinth thanks to the map. Most of the tunnels were completely empty apart from a few weak POPs as any of the guild bases defenses would've had to have been reset by a guild member, which there were none of. Somewhere along the way, Samuel had started talking about his old job building ships for the old Baharuth Empire's navy. Lucifer mostly ignored him for the most part.
"But the problem with Baharuth was resource allocation," Samuel rambled on. "Jircniv was a great emperor, but he deemed a naval invasion of Re-Estize to be inefficient since we would have to sail around the entire Agrand Council Alliance whereas a ground assault would yield quicker results with much less cost. If we had gotten the supplies we needed I could've started experimenting with the new designs I've been working on."
"What do these designs entail?" Jigsaw asked, his interest peaked at the thought of getting his hands on some blueprints.
"I've made a few new ship designs that should travel quicker and carry more supplies as well as few ideas on how to make use of Fire Dust," Samuel replied, happy to talk about his passion.
"Fire Dust?" Lucifer mused, instantly getting everyone's attention. "I haven't heard of this material. What is it?"
"It's a mixture of several elements made by alchemists," Neia spoke up. "It's usually used either for medicinal purposes or when the nobles wanted to set off some fireworks."
Ah, Fire Dust is their name for gunpowder. Come to think of it I don't actually have much of a navy unless you count the ships that I acquired by taking over the Baharuth Empire, the Draconic Kingdom, and the Holy Kingdom.
"You know Samuel, I don't have many in my empire with naval experience. What would you say if I offered you a job overseeing the construction of my own navy?" Lucifer asked. Neia and Samuel stared at the Immortal Emperor with wide eyes. "You will, of course, be paid a significant amount for your services."
"Tr-truly your majesty?" Samuel stuttered, finding it hard to believe that he would be offered a job like that out of the blue.
I don't see why not. Jigsaw is going to be busy enough as it is with all the projects I have lined up for him. This ought to lessen the workload for both him and Demiurge.
"Of course. It's clear that you have a sufficient amount of expertise and I could use someone with naval experience," Lucifer declared with a smile full of false charm.
"I-I would very much like to accept your offer, but what about Neia?" Samuel asked as Lucifer suppressed the urge to roll his eyes.
Whatever. I can bring her in too if that's what the situation calls for. How much of a difference does one more human make? Answer: Not very much at all. Wow, is this really how I think now? I'm kind of an asshole.
"She may come with you if she would like," Lucifer replied, brushing off the semi-depressing thought from a moment ago and carrying on as if it never happened. Neia's eyes consistently shined brighter every time she heard Lucifer speak. He was the epitome of everything a ruler should strive to be. He was benevolent, he was levelheaded, he was intelligent, and he was strong. If only Queen Hope had been more like him.
"Here we are my lord," Neia announced as they came to a large set of doors with an enormous blood red pentagram emblazoned upon them. "Behind these doors lies the Dark Council Chamber as well as three other rooms labeled as the Treasury and Throne Room with Hell's Garden connecting the three rooms. Hell's Garden is where the monsters that we mentioned will be."
"I see," Lucifer murmured. "Please open the door. Shalltear and I will deal with anything that tries to harm you."
Unless it has a world item. In that case your survival will not be a priority.
"Yes your highness!" Neia beamed as she pushed the doors open revealing a garden of eternally burning trees, thorn covered vines, and a massive fountain of blood in the middle of the room. Neia hadn't taken two steps into the room when about 20 pale, lanky figures dressed in dark rags emerged from the fountain of blood and started stalking towards her.
Vampires.
"I can smell her, she's a juicy little morsel."
"Can I have her?"
"No, you got the first pick of the last one. You'll have to settle for the old man."
"She's cute, but I think I'm cuter. Right Soran?"
"Shut up Evina!"
"BLOOD! BLOOD! BLOOD!"
These aren't NPCs or POP spawns, they're indigenous to this world. They make a bad first impression. They're the first indigenous vampires I've come across other than a few who are with Zuranon.
"Get down on your knees and await death, worms," Lucifer's cold voice pierced through the vampires' rambling and caused them to shoot glares at him as he raised his hand to cast [Grasp Heart] until…..
"It's him!" one of the vampires screamed. "He's the one from the walls! Father Blood!" The other vampires immediately dropped to their knees as if in prayer and started muttering insanely to themselves.
"We were threatened by Father Blood, such an honor."
"The Seer's insight proves true once again."
"YES! KILL US!"
"I-I don't really want to die, but if it is Father Blood's will…."
"All hail Father Blood!"
"The future is now!"
"Our Antichrist is finally here!"
"Lord Dracul, do you know these people?" Samuel asked.
"No, but they seem to know me," Lucifer stated as he slowly lowered his hand with his eyebrows furrowed in confusion.
"What's going on out here?" a woman's voice called out from the room to right, the Dark Council Chamber. She was an elven vampire with short dark blue hair and was dressed in a black dress that showed a LOT of cleavage and a LOT of leg. (Anyone know who Elvira is? I took inspiration from her dress.)
"Miss Raina!" Evina cried. "Father Blood has arrived, just as the seer predicted!" This got the vampiric woman's attention and she turned her head so fast to stare at Lucifer that bones could be heard popping.
"Lord Dracul, it is an honor to finally meet you," Raina said as she bowed. "My name is Raina Fortuna. If you would follow me, I'm sure the Seer would like to speak with you." Lucifer's eyes narrowed as he analyzed her and the other vampires present. None of them were strong enough to present any real threat to him, but he would remain vigilant nonetheless.
"Shalltear, accompany Samuel, Neia, and Jigsaw to the Treasury and look around for anything useful. We will rendezvous either once my business with this Seer is finished or they foolishly attempt to attack us," Lucifer commanded.
"Yes father," Shalltear responded, albeit with an uneasy look in her eye, as she led the humans and the Frankenstein into the room on the left.
"Now where's this Seer of yours?"
"….and if that wasn't bad enough, now even more trolls have begun pouring into the country!" Kellinci yelled in an aggravated tone. The other mayors weren't nearly as vocal as he was about the escalating situation with the trolls, but they understood his frustration all too well. Silver Thread Bird had been helpful in driving back the trolls, but there was only so much a single adamantite ranked team could do. After all, they couldn't be everywhere at once.
"Well, as much as I hate to be optimistic, I happen to have some good news," Kabelia spoke up. "We have received supplies from the Eternal Empire that should prove to be effective in our fight." The other mayors turned to her with surprised looks on their faces.
"You mean that vampire has sent us something to help us?" Zabek asked in disbelief.
"Yes, delivered by Skeleton Dragons no less. He sent us about 200 weapons with 2nd tier fire runes carved upon them. By the looks of them, I'd say they were the works of dwarven craftsmanship," Kabelia said with a nod.
"So the Immortal Emperor does care about others!" Fai exclaimed happily. "Maybe he isn't such a bad guy after all?"
"I wouldn't get your hopes up," Kabelia interrupted. "Along with the swords was an official letter from Lucifer Dracul's wife, Empress Albedo Dracul. It was….alarming."
"What did it say?" Kellinci asked, his one remaining rabbit ear standing up straight.
"Respected mayors of the City State Alliance, the Eternal Empire would like to provide you with these armaments to assist you in your fight against the trolls. As trolls are weak against fire, we suspect that you will find these weapons to be most useful. However, my husband would like to inform you that the fact that the trolls have done so much damage and have gained so much ground in your territory has called your ability to lead and protect your people into question. Furthermore, if you are unable to resolve this situation quickly, we will assume that your country is too weak to protect its citizens and take matters into our own hands. By Imperial Law laid down by the Immortal Emperor Lucifer Dracul, we are not obligated to assist other countries or provide humanitarian aid to those who are not citizens of our great empire. However, if the situation continues to deteriorate, we will proceed under the assumption that the reason you're continuing to fail your people is because the City State Alliance is no longer effective and therefore should be removed. The citizens of this fallen nation will be welcome to march under the imperial banner as our territory naturally expands to cover this lawless territory. Signed, the Immortal Empress Albedo Dracul." The room went completely silent as Kabelia finished reading off the letter.
"Are-are they serious?" Kellinci muttered.
"Meanie," Fai pouted childishly.
"Arrogant bastards!" Zabek roared. "Do they really think they can just walk on in here and claim our cities?"
"I wouldn't be surprised," Kabelia sighed, getting perplexed looks from the other mayors. "If things continue to get worse, all Lucifer will have to do is wait until we're at our weakest and then simply have his armies march into our cities without any resistance. A plan even Jircniv would be proud of."
"But wouldn't he have to deal with the trolls?" Fai asked.
"Remember Katze Plains?" Kabelia rebuked, instantly shutting Fai down. "The most we can hop for at this point is a stalemate. Perhaps the weapons they provided us can make enough of a difference."
"I sure as hell hope so," Zabek grumbled.
The Troll Lord Gral was aggravated by how Demiurge had "forgotten" to mention details such as this back when he agreed to help the Eternal Empire. When Demiurge told him that all of the trolls' might must be focused on the City State Alliance, he had no problems with those orders. But now…..
"Director Demiurge," Gral began, masking his frustration with the spectacle wearing demon that sat across from him drinking tea. "Would you please enlighten me as to why your country has aided our mutual enemies by providing them with weapons that negate our healing factor?"
"And why should I do that?" Demiurge asked with a smirk.
"Because if you don't, I'd refuse to continue helping you forcing you to take my life to ensure my silence but would also cause a delay in your plans," Gral replied with a deathly calm look on his face. "Last time I checked, your Immortal Emperor seeks this to be resolved as efficiently as possible and I don't think he'd appreciate the delay." Demiurge's glared from behind his glasses as he set down his tea.
This filthy troll is slightly more intelligent then I gave him credit for. He knows that he's useful but he also knows his place before the Supreme One. Very well Gral…..
"We need to drive the City State Alliance into a corner without causing too much damage to the city infrastructure," Demiurge finally responded. "By giving them the weapons, we have given them the means to end the trolls' advance and bring this little war to a stalemate. Neither side will gain or lose ground during this stalemate so no further damage will be inflicted on the cities and will also maximize the bloodshed making each side desperate for a solution."
"And that's where the Eternal Empire comes in?" Gral guessed.
"Correct," Demiurge smirked. "Your fellow Troll Lord, Rex, seems to relish in the glory of battle. However, if there is no noticeable change in the stalemate, he will seek alternative solutions to regain momentum. A solution you will provide."
"And what will that solution be?"
"We have Neuronist extracting that from a few members of Ijaniya as we speak," Demiurge replied with a sinister grin. Gral didn't know who or what Neuronist was, but judging by the look on Demiurge's face he decided that it was best not to ask.
"Very well, sir," Gral sighed. "How long do you think you will need to extract the information you seek?"
"Not very long at all. Neuronist is quite proficient at her job."
"Thank you for seeing us on such short notice," Lakyus said as she and the other members of Blue Rose sat down across from Ainzach.
"Forget about it," Ainzach replied dismissively. "Would you like something to drink? My receptionist, Laura, does more than just organize all the paperwork Dracul makes us do."
"We're fine, thanks," Tia declined.
"Speak for yourself, I could go for a drink," Gargan said with a grin.
"So, what can I do for you?" Ainzach asked.
"We have some questions about the new Adventurer's Guild that Dracul has had built," Evileye spoke up. "Apparently he left you in charge of making sure it all goes according to his will."
"We want to know what you intend to do to protect the adventurers from him and how we can help," Tina spoke up.
"Even after what happened in the Holy Kingdom, you still want to try to stand against him?" Ainzach asked as he raised an eyebrow.
"With how rapidly his power and influence is expanding, I think it's more important now more than ever to stop him," Lakyus declared. "At this rate, Lucifer Dracul will rule the entire continent by the end of the year."
"Is that really such a bad thing?"
"Eh?" Gargan muttered with a confused expression on her face.
"Think about it. Ever since he started taking over countries, the citizens lives have only improved," Ainzach pointed out. "For example, the citizens of E-Rantel no longer have to worry about nobles, crime, religious inquisitions, starving to death, or being drafted into fighting a war that I don't give a damn about. If all we have to do to keep living like this is let Dracul and his Legion keep conquering people then I'm just fine with that. Besides, from what I've seen, he's saved more people than he's killed. Just look at the Holy Kingdom for example."
"What about the guild?" Evileye asked. "He's made our job that we've devoted our lives to obsolete. Monsters are becoming citizens and Death Knights take care of anything that endangers the people. Now that he's taken control of the guild he may use you as instruments of war!"
"It wouldn't make sense for him to use us," Ainzach pointed out. "Why would he use us when his own forces are far more powerful than we are? As for how we are obsolete, his majesty wants to employ us as explorers and hone our skills so we can hold our own against various threats. I don't really see why you're all making such a big deal out of this."
"You do realize how badly this could go if Lucifer suddenly decided to turn against the people, right?" Lakyus asked with a glare.
"Of course I do, but it wouldn't make any sense," Ainzach rebuked. "If he wanted us dead he could've killed us all a hundred times over by now. He could already rule the whole continent if he wanted to but I think he cares about how this is done just as much as he cares about getting it done."
"Do you honestly think you can trust him?" Gargan asked.
"Momon trusts Lucifer and I trust Momon," Ainzach replied with a shrug. "It's good enough for me." The members of Blue Rose, except for Evileye, looked unsure whether to trust Lucifer or not. The only good things they could think of when it came to the Antichrist was what they saw him do in the Holy Kingdom and what they heard about the Dwarves. Just about everything else they knew seemed to paint him in a less than positive light. "How about this? I have to go report to his majesty tonight anyway. Why don't the four of you come along? See what he's like when he's usually like for yourselves?"
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt," Lakyus murmured.
"Great! I'll meet you at the Administration Building. You won't believe the kind of food they serve in Nazarick!" Ainzach exclaimed with a smile.
"We already know," Evileye muttered as she thought back to the Diet. With that awkward conversation, or rather, interrogation, out of the way, Blue Rose started made its way out of the refurbished Adventurer's Guild and into the streets.
"He had a point, boss" Tia muttered.
"What do you mean?" Lakyus asked with a n eyebrow raised.
"Well think about it. It's no secret that the nobles mistreated the commoners on an almost daily basis back when this city was a part of Re-Estize, no offence Lakyus," Gargan said. "Think about the places Dracul has conquered. The Draconic Kingdom agreed to hand their territory over, the Beastmen Country had been eating people, and there wasn't really any government left to restore order to the Holt Kingdom. With the exception of what happened on Katze Plains, he seems to be an okay ruler."
"I get it, really, I do," Lakyus sighed. "But Renner doesn't trust him and I trust Renner. She's my friend and she's the kindest, most pure-hearted girl I know. If we can't trust the Golden Princess, then who can we trust?" Tina and Tia nodded at each other as they agreed with their leader's words, Gargan smirked and shook her head as she too believed in Lakyus' friend. Evileye was the only one who remained silent. After all, she trusted Momon, who she saw as someone even greater than the Golden Princess, above all others. "Princess Renner believes that the time to stand against the Antichrist will soon be upon us. We will defeat him before he has the chance to spread his evil throughout the world!"
"But what if he's not what you or Renner think?" Evileye asked, snapping Lakyus out of her monologue.
"We'll cross that bridge when we get to it."
"It's him!"
"Father Blood."
"The Antichrist!"
"Please bite my neck!"
"Let me smell you!"
"Let me touch you!
"Fuck me!"
"No! Fuck ME!"
"Bitch, I saw him first!"
"All hail Lucifer Dracul!"
"I'm too excited to say meh!"
And I thought the NPCs were crazy.
"Alright, make way you idiots! He's meeting with the Seer!" Raina yelled as she led Lucifer towards the Dark Council Chamber through a crowd of vampires that had gathered in Hell's Garden all grasping at him and his cloak as if he were a celebrity or some sort of messiah. Those who weren't calling out to him or trying to touch him had gotten on their knees as if they were praying and started chanting an eerie tune that Lucifer found to be all too familiar. After all, he himself had been humming it what seemed like an eternity ago.
"Prick your finger it is done, the moon has now eclipsed the sun. Angel now has spread its wings, the time has come for bitter things. Prick your finger it is done, the moon has now eclipsed the sun. Angel now has spread its wings, the time has come for bitter things. Prick your finger it is done, the moon has now eclipsed the sun. Angel now has spread its wings, the time has come for bitter things."
So this is how the Pope back on Earth feels. Strangely enough, this isn't the weirdest thing that's ever happened to me.
"Would you care to explain to me why so many vampires are living here when the Platinum Dragon Lord is known to reside rather close to you with only a single, albeit large, room separating you?" Lucifer inquired.
"It was a deal that the Seer and Zydrayis worked out," Raina replied as she continued to lead him through the crowd. "The Seer promised that he and his fellow vampires would fend off any intruders who made it this far for Zydrayis as long as he allows them to live in the garden and Dark Council Chamber. Of course Zydrayis had us move everything he dumped in there to the Throne Room where he usually stays now."
"And he never comes in here to make sure you aren't plotting anything?"
"No. He knows we don't stand a chance against him," Raina said before smirking a little. "Although, it probably also has something to do with the fact that the door to the Throne Room is too small for him to fit through so if he ever wants to check on us he has to leave from the hole in the Throne Room he made and go all the way around the city and through the passages to get in here. So he just never leaves damn Throne Room. Until recently, that is. He disappeared a while ago after some guy in silver armor broke in here. Apparently they worked out some sort of deal."
Who's this guy in silver armor? He was strong enough to fight through all these vampires and get to the Platinum Dragon Lord? That's rather impressive by this world's standards. I'll have to investigate this matter. Speaking of this world's standards, I almost forgot.
[Demiurge.]
[My lord!]
[Once you have concluded your business with Troll Lord Gral, I would appreciate it if you would summon Go Gin and report to Nazarick. There is much to discuss.]
[As you command my lord. I will finish up here and report to Nazarick with haste.]
[Very good. I will see you there.]
By the time he had finished [Message]ing Demiurge, Raina had led him to a set of double doors marked with several demonic symbols.
"This is the Dark Council Chamber. The Seer will be eager to meet you at last," Raina stated before walking off to get the crowd under control. Lucifer silently opened the doors and walked inside, examining every inch of the room. It looked quite similar to the meeting room in Nazarick apart from a darker color scheme, black markings all over the walls, and the fact it looked like no one had cleaned in here in centuries.
"Ah, great one, you are here at last," a raspy voice called out. Lucifer turned to see sickly, elderly looking man covered head to toe in black robes with a piece of cloth covering his eyes.
Strange, I can't tell how powerful he is. Either something is interfering or he's strong enough to keep me from seeing. I shouldn't take my eyes off him.
"I take it you are the Seer I've heard so much about," Lucifer drawled. "You and your people seem to know a great deal about me. What is it that you want?"
"Only for you to listen and kill me once we are done here," the Seer replied in a surprisingly happy tone. Lucifer raised an eyebrow at the odd request but remained silent prompting the withered vampire to continue. "Many years ago when the Evil Deities brought death and destruction upon the land, I hunted and killed many humans, demihumans, and heteromorphs to acquire their souls to use in a Wild Magic ritual that would allow me to see the future. It took decades, but eventually I was able to enact the ritual and, although I lost my ability to see in the process, I was gifted with sight of the future, or at least a possible future."
"So you're saying that the ritual showed you some sort of prophecy?" Lucifer inquired as he stared at the blind man.
"I am uncertain if prophecy is the correct term as it is merely a possible future. Nothing, be it past, present, or future, is set in stone."
"Would you happen to have a record of this vision?"
"What did you think the markings on the walls were?" the Seer asked with a toothless grin. Lucifer turned his gaze once again to the strange markings that covered the walls. Upon closer inspection, they resembled hieroglyphics that had once been by the ancient Egyptians from Earth, although these were all of rather quality. Oh well, you can't expect a masterpiece from a blind man. Much like how Egyptian hieroglyphics showed their gods as larger than life and lording over their subjects, Lucifer was displayed as the largest figure of them all. It was a little eerie to be honest.
"Would you care to explain this vision you had?"
"Of course," the Seer replied as he gestured to what appeared to be Nazarick between two worlds. "The first image if of your arrival in our world from the realm of gods."
This is ridiculous. I don't care how accurate this prophecy crap is. It's never a good idea to put too much faith in the ravings of a blind lunatic or in prophecies at all for that matter. This is like that Book of Revelations bullshit I…or rather…..Suzuki Satoru was taught back at the orphanage.
The Seer continued to explain several more images that Lucifer recognized such as his meeting with Jircniv, the Battle of Katze Plains, and his "battle" with Jaldabaoth. But that where he stopped recognizing events. The next few were of him between a male elf and a teenage girl clad in black and white wielding a scythe and two small boys with devil horns standing beside him and Albedo. But the one after that really got his attention. He was doing battle with a man in silver armor as a battle raged on around them. Unlike all the other markings he'd seen so far, this one was in red instead of black.
"Is there a particular reason this one is a different color?" Lucifer asked.
"As I said before, nothing is set in stone. Any markings that are red signify a point of time where there is a possibility that you may die," the Seer said solemnly. "If you live, more of my vision will come to pass. If you don't, anything else is inconsequential." Lucifer stiffened at the thought and started skipping over other parts of the prophecy, looking for anything red and glancing at a few potential significant moments.
Among the red markings he found, there was what appeared to be the Holy City of Humanika burning, several battles between himself facing other gods, a man with dragon wings sprouting from his back shouting at him, anything that involved what looked like romans and green men carrying guns in the same picture, something about him fighting a giant squid, him and what appeared to be a shepherd waging a war on more of those giant squids, and finally, the same shepherd and himself were staring at each other as if deciding whether to kill each other or not.
I'm a lot more likely to die than I thought. Shit.
"Do you know when these events may come to pass?" Lucifer asked, the only reason he was able to keep his voice steady was due to his undead nature suppressing his emotions.
"No," the Seer said with a slight smirk. "But I do know what will happen should you prevail over your many obstacles." With that, the Seer pointed to the very end of the wall which depicted Lucifer surrounded by planets, controlling everything as he saw fit. One of those planets in particular caught Lucifer's eye.
Earth. My old home. I still may not believe in this prophecy business, but the thought of returning to Earth as an all-powerful vampire overlord with an army of the undead is rather enticing.
"All in all, none of this is very helpful besides telling me that there are several points in the future where I may die," Lucifer sighed. "Why show me any of this?"
"To prove that the restrictions of Yggdrasil do not apply here in this new world and you may become stronger here than what the realm of gods allowed for," the Seer explained. "After all, I, a mere Floor Guardian was able to do it." Lucifer's eyes widened momentarily as he stared where the Seer's eyes used to be. "My true name is Balthazar Sinclaire, last Floor Guardian of the Great Floating Fortress of Eryuentiu, home of the guild once known as Purgatory."
He's a goddamn NPC!
"The other Floor Guardians and their minions went mad when the Supreme Ones killed one another and, after substantial infighting, took out their rage and grief on the rest of the world," the Seer, or rather, Balthazar continued. "I was spared from the insanity because I was carrying out the orders of my creator, Lady Beelzebub. She wanted me to discover if we could use magic that was not from Yggdrasil in this new world and, if so, make use of it. This what led me to learn the Wild Magic ritual in first place. But by the time I was done, the Supreme Ones were already gone and my former comrades were being hunted by the Thirteen Heroes. And so I have waited here for you in order to make use of the knowledge I obtained and, at long last, I have carried out my lady's last wish."
"And this is why you want me to kill you?" Lucifer inquired, slightly shook by the insane tone Balthazar's voice had taken.
"Now I can die and be with her again. There is only one last thing to do. Please follow me Lord Dracul." And with his rant complete, Balthazar led Lucifer to the Throne Room where the Platinum Dragon Lord usually resided with many of his vampire followers beginning to crowd around the two of them. The room, like the rest of the floating city, was dirty, decayed, and dark.
This guy is completely out of his mind. Would my Floor Guardians end up like him if I passed away or vanished? I won't let that happen to the NPCs. Not Albedo, not Demiurge, not Cocytus, not Shalltear, not a single fucking one of them.
"We are here Lord Dracul," Balthazar announced as he gestured to a throne that sat upon an elevated platform. There it was, leaning against the back of the throne: Guilty Ordinance, the Guild Weapon of Purgatory. It was a beautiful and elegant sword fit for a demon king. A little gaudy, but beautiful overall. The destruction of a guild weapon would mean the end of that guild, but to claim it as a spoil of war…well…that hadn't been an option in Yggdrasil. Lucifer picked up the sword and gave it a quick practice swing. As expected, its status as a guild weapon allowed him to overcome class restrictions to wield the weapon.
"Mine," he muttered quietly with a smirk. The moment that word left his mouth, all of Eryuentiu shook as if a great beast had awakened.
"Congratulations Lord Dracul, you are now the master of Guilty Ordinance as well as the Floating Fortress of Eryuentiu. Now if you wouldn't mind, KILL ME!" Balthazar bellowed with a psychotic grin on his face. "Send me to my lady!" By this point, all of Balthazar's followers, Shalltear, Jigsaw. Samuel, and Neia had gathered around to see what the commotion was about. "I have ingested every last silver potion that had been left here and disabled all of my abilities that prevent me from taking damage! You can kill me with single attack! DO IT!"
Whatever. Makes no difference to me.
"Very well then. On your knees," Lucifer stated coldly. Balthazar grinned as he fell to his knees and faced his followers.
"Rejoice my disciples!" Balthazar exclaimed. "With my death, our ascension begins! Follow the Antichrist and he will lead you to greatness!"
Psychopath.
"All hail Father Blood!" Balthazar cried as Guilty Ordinance sliced through his neck and spine, decapitating him and causing his head to roll across the floor. After a few moments of silence, the vampires all started cheering.
"All hail Father Blood!" Raina shouted.
"Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood! Father Blood!"
Maniacs. Still, a group of religious zealots may be useful as long as they are kept on a tight leash.
"Silence," he commanded in his usual cold tone with his patented "You're making too much noise, quiet down" movement, his voice echoing throughout the room. "Although I have now taken control of Eryuentiu, this place is in need of numerous repairs and additional improvements. Miss Fortuna, I would like you to take charge and oversee the restoration of Eryuentiu so it may dominate the skies once again."
"I will prove myself worthy of your trust, my lord!" Raina declared.
"Very good. I suggest you begin immediately. I will be sending a few of my servants to assist you with the restoration efforts as well as supply you with any materials you need," Lucifer said before turning to his daughter. "Shalltear, gather Jigsaw, Samuel, and Neia. We're leaving. Shalltear, if you would."
"Yes father. [Gate]!"
All of the important members of the National Liberation Party had assembled in the main dining room of the mansion that had once belonged to the Mayor of E-Pespel. Sebas, Freddon, Brain, Climb, and Princess Renner had all gathered around the large table in the middle of the room and had laid out a large map of Re-Estize with several red Xs marking select areas around the capital. The women of Blue Rose were absent because they had gone ahead a few days ago to see how E-Rantel had faired under the Immortal Emperor's reign for themselves.
"With E-Pespel fallen, the Noble faction's forces will logically fall back to Re-Estize to secure the capital to defend Zanack and the remaining nobles," Sebas mused.
"Standard Royal Protocol would call for a full city lockdown in case of an invading army," Renner informed everyone. "Getting into the city undetected is going to be nearly impossible."
"What if we used some of the old passages the Eight Fingers used to smuggle contraband in and out of the city?" Freddon suggested.
"We could send a few ex-adventurers ahead through them to act as saboteurs, but tunnels are too slim for an invading army to get through effectively," Brain replied.
"Perhaps it's time we asked the Eternal Empire to make good on its offer to assist us," Renner said, eliciting different reactions from everyone in the room.
"I'm not sure if that's-" Climb began.
"She's right," Sebas spoke up, shifting everyone's attention from Renner to himself. "The walls around Re-Estize are strong and all of Zanack's remaining strength is marshalled there. I don't think a few of Emperor Dracul's Death Knights would hurt our chances. We should head to E-Rantel and rendezvous with Blue Rose."
"So who's going to go ask him?" Freddon asked. "I'm sure as hell not going anywhere near him."
"I'll do it," Brain announced. "I'll tell him that we're making our final push against the nobles and if he wants to help us then now is the time."
I might get the chance to talk to Avenir too.
"I shall accompany you," Sebas declared.
It would be good to walk the halls of Nazarick again. It's been too long since the last time I saw Tsuare.
"Very well, we'll see you two at the rendezvous," Renner said. As everyone started making their way out of the room, Sebas turned to Climb and called him out.
"Climb, that is not the blade you were given by the former Warrior Captain," Sebas said as he gestured to his sword, the same one he had identified as Climb's backup weapon when they first met.
"Well there was a man in silver armor who broke in and-" Climb started before a slight yelp escaped his mouth as Renner started pinching his cheek.
"Please don't exert yourself Climb. You need to rest after that ordeal," Renner said worriedly before turning to Sebas. "The silver armored man broke in and attacked us while the rest of you were taking E-Pespel. Climb tried to defend me but he was overpowered and knocked unconscious. I tried to stop him but he just shoved me aside and took Razor Edge before fleeing."
"I see," Sebas replied, his expression unreadable. "Then if you will excuse me, I must depart." And with that, he left the room and started making his way to the carriage.
This explains why the Shadow Demon we assigned to her hasn't given us any updates. Demiurge, Albedo, and Lord Dracul himself all warned me about this woman's true nature. Although she seems trustworthy, it is just a mask. I should consult with Lord Dracul on this matter….no…I shouldn't bother him with these trifles. Demiurge is busy in the Troll Kingdom, so I suppose Albedo would be best. I hope she isn't in one of her moods. Who knew pregnancy could cause so many troubles?
[Albedo, I require your input.] Sebas messaged her as he walked off.
Renner stared at Sebas as he walked off. She had always had a strange feeling about him. His rise to the position of the NLP's leader had seemed too smooth to her, as if it had been orchestrated. She knew he was hiding something, but what? There were only a few possibilities as to who he serve, but the most likely answer was that his true master was Lucifer Dracul. Renner had conspired with Nazarick as well, but she knew better than to place all her bets on the Antichrist, despite how strong he was. She had spoken with him in secret during the Diet, away from prying eyes. He had promised her a world where she and Climb could be together forever as long as she agreed to arrange for the Kingdom to slowly dissolve into the Eternal Empire once this civil war was over with. The thing is, however, Renner didn't like taking orders. Not from anyone. More importantly: he might not keep his end of the bargain and let her keep Climb as hers to love, cherish, and tie to the bed whenever she wished. Nothing would come between her and Climb. She was his forever and ever and ever and ever and ever AND EVER AND EVER AND EVER AND EVER AND EVER AND EVER AND EVER AND EVER!
So if this Ainz really does manage to kill him, then I can just have Climb as my king. If Dracul survives, I'll just feign ignorance. Besides, he can't kill me without making it look suspicious. It would look too suspicious if he killed me and took over. Even if he told the people that I had tried to betray them, my reputation as the Golden Princess would keep the people from believing him and may even turn them against him. That's the last thing Lucifer wants: to look like a villain. Besides, I'm the only thing that's really unifying these peasants.
A creepy grin that didn't suit her crept onto Renner's face. Yes. It would be very inconvenient for Lucifer to kill her. He needed her.
"Princess Renner, are you coming milady?" Climb called out, causing the creepy smile to disappear and become one of cheer and beauty.
"Of course, Climb! I'll be there in a minute!" Renner cheered. "Oh, and make sure we have a carriage all to ourselves! We still need to finish our discussion from the other day!"
The cart had almost arrived in E-Rantel. Nfirea, Enri, Nemu, Jugem, Hekkeran, Imina, Myriah, and several other goblins sat in the back of the cart while one of the goblins was the one driving. Normally, a trip to E-Rantel from Carne Village would take several days, but with the Soul Eaters that had been provided by the Eternal Empire the trip only took a few hours at most. Enri, Nfirea, and Nemu had spent the entire ride filling Myriah'ss head with tales of Lucifer and his empire, not to mention their own personal experiences with him.
"-And after the battle with Prince Barbro's forces, Lord Dracul started sending a bunch of Skeleton Workers over to the village and started building a road between us and the city he's having built near Nazarick!" Enri rambled on excitedly.
"Is it really possible for someone to accomplish so much in so little time?" Myriah asked with a dazed look on her face.
"It is if you're him," Imina said. "He is a god after all."
"He is!?"
"Who did you think that church was dedicated to?" Hekkeran added. Myriah thought back to the strange church where the Elder Lich had healed her. Although the details had been blurry, she clearly remembered the stained glass mosaic of the imposing vampire. His arms had been outstretched and the mosaic was divided into two. On the left half, life flourished, there was peace and harmony, and a rose was growing from his left hand. On the right half, there was a depiction of hell with a burning skull being held in his right hand. But it was those eyes that really got her attention. They were terrifying yet beautiful, piercing yet calming, soulless yet caring. Finally, the ivory gates that led into E-Rantel came into view, as did the Death Knights and Elder Liches protecting it.
"Halt!" an Elder Lich commanded as the cart stopped at E-Rantel's gates. Myriah shivered in fear as two Death Knights started inspecting the carriage and the Elder Lich approached Enri menacingly. "Papers, please."
"C'mon Captain Mors, we've been here enough times for you to know us," Enri moaned as she and all of the other passengers, excluding Myriah, handed small official-looking documents over to the Elder Lich.
"It's just standard procedure, Chief," Mors mumbled as he looked over the papers before who turning his dead eyes to Myriah questioningly. "Where are her papers?"
"I found her collapsed in the middle of the road on my way to Carne," Gondo spoke up. "She's a refuge from the Elf Country, which is why she doesn't have any papers."
"What brings her here?"
"She would like to speak with the Immortal Emperor about the ongoing situation in her country," Nfirea added.
"Is that so?" Mors mused as he stared at the small elf. Myriah managed to respond with a firm nod, despite the terror she felt when Mors turned his gaze to her. "Very well, but if you wish to either receive a guest pass or become a citizen of the Eternal Empire, you will have to visit the Ministry of Immigration in the Administration Building and fill out an application."
"Enri, Nfirea, and I will stick with her," Gondo informed Mors. "We have to report to Immortal Emperor later anyway, so she may as well stick close to us."
"Yay! We're going to go see Uncle Lucy-fer!" Nemu exclaimed, earning a few sweatdrops from those around.
"Very well sir," Mors nodded, completely ignoring Nemu's outburst. "You may proceed into the city." And with that the gates opened, revealing the city on the other side. Humans, demihumans, and heteromorphs filled the streets going about their daily business, dragons flew overhead delivering supplies or acting as transportation for those who couldn't fly, and undead creatures patrolled every street. The blood red banners of the Eternal Empire hung from every building, the roads were paved in stone bricks, and most of the old wooden buildings had been torn down and replaced with buildings made of marble, stone, and iron.
"C'mon," Enri called, snapping Myriah out of her trance. "We need to get you authorized before sundown if we want to make it to the meeting! After all, you're the first elf to join the Eternal Empire!"
"Huh?" Myriah asked nervously, looking to Imina as a fellow elf, of half elf at least, for support only to find her had already headed off into the city with Hekkeran rushing to catch up with her.
"C'mon Hekkeran!" Imina shouted. "It's been too long since we've seen Arche and this reunion calls for booze, booze, booze!"
Corvo and Jessamine sat across from each other, eating lunch in silence. Very. Awkward. Silence. The two of them hadn't been entirely sure how to interact with each other after last night. Jessamine stared down at her food with a persistent blush on her face while Corvo chewed in silence and occasionally rubbed at his stubble, not entirely sure what to do in this situation. His face was completely blank. Not even his usual glare was present.
"Uh, Corvo," Jessamine finally spoke up. "About last night….."
"Huh?" Corvo grunted in his usual grumpy attitude.
"I'm sorry about last night."
"It's fine," Corvo responded curtly. A few more minutes of silence passed until one of them spoke again.
"Nigun told me about your boss," Jessamine finally said. Corvo's fists clenched and his eyes widened as he stared at her.
Nigun you fucking idiot! I'm not going to have to kill her to protect my cover am I? I don't want to kill her! The mission comes first! Remember your purpose Corvo Attano! You are a Vengeful Spirit created by the Supreme One and it is your honor, not to mention your duty, to serve him!
"He said that he would help liberate the elves from and give them equal rights," Jessamine continued. "I want to help." Corvo's eyes narrowed at her. If he went ahead and made this decision, would he get in trouble like Sebas had? No, Sebas had been reprimanded because he didn't inform Lucifer about the girl. Corvo wouldn't make that mistake, plus Lucifer was aware of Jessamine's existence already. He would ensure this was done correctly.
"I'm not the one who makes this sort of decision," Corvo sighed. "Although freeing the elves is part of our goals, it is not our ultimate objective. If you still want to help us despite knowing this, I can take you to my lord as long as you remain calm when you learn who and what he is. Can you do that?"
"Of course!" Jessamine exclaimed as she stared at him with determination and the smile that usually adorned her features finally returned.
"Good," Corvo grunted before casting [Message].
[My lord.]
[Corvo, it has been quite some time.]
[You are aware of the human woman I am shacked up with?]
[Of course.]
[She would like to meet you. Although she is not aware of your identity, she is aware that I do not truly serve the Slane Theocracy. She wants to help us.]
[Bring her to me. It's about time I met this human, face to face. Meet me in the Administration Building in E-Rantel, I have a few humans to drop off.]
[Very well my lord.] Corvo ended the [Message] before casting yet another one.
[Ms. Omega.]
[Hello Lord Attano! How my I help you?]
[Could you arrange for a [Gate] to appear at my current coordinates? There is a human I wish to take before the master to gain his permission to bring her into the fold.]
[You do realize the risk you're taking here, right?]
[I am fully aware, however she has substantial knowledge of the elven slave trade throughout the Slane Theocracy. Her information and familiarity with the area may prove useful.]
[Alrighty then! One [Gate] coming up!]
Moments after the [Message] ended, a [Gate] appeared in the middle of Jessamine's living room, prompting a small "eek" from the elven rights activist.
"This will take us to see my master," Corvo informed her. Jessamine didn't move and simply stared the [Gate] in fear. With a small sigh, Corvo gently took her hand in order to gain her attention. "You know, I found your actions last night to be rather enjoyable," he said quietly as he turned his face away from her, hiding the smallest of blushes that had appeared on his face. His words finally snapped Jessamine out of her trance and she stared at him before letting out a small laugh.
"Tsundere," she smirked, prompting him to glare at her.
"Shut up," he growled as he pushed her through the [Gate].
Myriah let out a groan as she exited the Ministry of Immigration, which was one of the several government agencies that were run from inside the former mayor's mansion. The forms she had to fill out to apply for citizenship had been tedious and boring, but it had paid off when an Elder Lich had handed Myriah her very own Identification Papers. It made her feel like she belonged somewhere, like she had a home. After all, she no longer had a home awaiting her in the Elf Kingdom. The Slane Theocracy had seen to that. Enri, Nfirea, Nemu, and Gondo were sitting in the waiting room with her along with two lizardmen named Zaryusu and Zenberu who had joined them a few minutes ago. Additionally, Ainzach and the members of Blue Rose had been waiting there for a few hours now. Ainzach, Tina, Tia, and Gargan had all fallen asleep in their seats while Lakyus paced the room restlessly and Evileye daydreamed about Momon. Myriah collapsed into her seat with a sigh and continued on with her childish groaning, prompting Lakyus to look at her with an eyebrow raised.
"You just finished the application for citizenship, didn't you?" Zaryusu guessed with a smirk. His response was another moan. "Look on the bright side, you won't have to do it again."
"Well if that's everyone, we should ask the Gatekeeper to open a portal to Nazarick," Gondo said as he hopped out of his seat.
"Is it really that simple?" Evileye asked.
"As long as the Gatekeeper clears you and you have proper authorization, yeah. After all, you'd have to be suicidal to try anything in Lord Dracul's home," Enri answered. "The creatures that guard that place are beyond powerful."
"Have you ever been to E-Rantel, Brain?" a voice from outside the room asked.
"A few times, but not since the Battle of Katze Plains," another voice replied. Seconds later, the duo of Sebas and Brain turned the corner and entered the room. "Looks like we're not alone."
"Good evening," Sebas said with a bow. "I am Sebas Tian of the National Liberation Party and this is Brain Unglaus. "We were told to come here to seek an audience with the Immortal Emperor. Is this the right place?"
"Sebas," Lakyus called out with a wave. "It's good to see you."
"Likewise."
"Hey, what about me?" Brain cut in.
"Why are you guys here anyway?" Evileye asked.
"The time has come for us to see if the Immortal Emperor will honor his agreement to support us in our struggle for freedom," Sebas replied.
"And once again, I am ignored," Brain grumbled.
"Hi!" Enri suddenly yelped. "Er, did I hear you right? You're Sebas Tian? The leader of the rebellion against the Re-Estize Kingdom?"
"A lot of us just call him Gramps," Brain added with a smirk.
"You know I hate it when you call me that," Sebas stated as he sent Brain a playful glare. Before anyone could say anything else, a [Gate] appeared as Corvo and Jessamine stepped out from the swirling darkness.
"Wow! What was that?" Jessamine exclaimed. "One minute when Humanika and the next minute we're in….where are we?"
"E-Rantel," Nfirea spoke up.
"E-Rantel!" Jessamine finished before the smile completely disappeared from her face. "Wait a minute. E-Rantel? E-Rantel! Corvo, isn't this city under control of the Immortal Emperor!?"
"Yup! Lucy-fer is the best!" Nemu cheered. Jessamine began to shake like a leaf as her eyes darted all over the room from the humans, to Gondo, to the lizardmen, to the Death Knights standing guard at the door. Just as she was about to start hyperventilating, Corvo grabbed her hand firmly.
"We're fine," he said quietly in way that did not match his usual gruff mannerisms. Jessamine was still terrified but it helped calm her down if nothing else.
And then another [Gate] opened.
The first two figures were normal humans, Neia and Samuel, but those that followed became increasingly monstrous. First came Shalltear, then Jigsaw, and then finally Lucifer himself stepped into the room. Brain froze, the sleeping members of Blue Rose woke up and grabbed their weapons, Myriah started shivering as if she was naked in the Arctic, and Jessamine outright fainted prompting Corvo to grab her before she fell to the floor.
"Well, I didn't expect such a large audience upon my return," Lucifer mused.
"Lucy-fer!" Nemu exclaimed as she jumped at him and latched onto his leg.
"Oh, hello little Nemu," Lucifer said good naturedly as he patted the little girl's head.
How do I get this thing off me? Fuck it.
Upon seeing the child's antics Enri, Nfirea, and Gondo let out soft chuckles, Brain's jaw dropped, Sebas raised an eyebrow, the members of Blue Rose stared dumbfounded, Ainzach snorted, Shalltear suppressed a growl, and Jigsaw proceeded not to give a damn.
"Lord Dracul, it is an honor to see you again," Gondo said as he made a polite bow.
"There is no need to bow to me Gondo," Lucifer said in his usual façade of kindness. "There is no need for such formalities between friends.
"Fr-friends? Ah, yes! Sorry about that," Gondo exclaimed with a smile as he rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment.
"Enri, Nfirea, I see you're doing well."
"Yes my lord."
"Yes my lord."
"Zaryusu, Zenberu, I take it you're here because there has been progress in your village?"
"Yes my lord," Zaryusu replied as Zenberu nodded. "High General Cocytus said he would meet us in Nazarick and that we should report here."
"Excellent."
"It's good to see you milord," Ainzach spoke up. "Blue Rose would like to accompany us for the meeting, if that's alright with you."
"I don't have any particular issue with this," Lucifer responded as he cast his cold gaze over the all-female adamantite team before turning to his creation. "Corvo, it's been too long."
"Indeed."
"Last but not least….you…..," Lucifer trailed off as he turned to the shivering elf. "Might I ask who you are?"
"I-I-I'm Myriah, formerly of the Elf Kingdom a-and, as of a few minutes ago, a citizen of your empire, L-Lord Dracul," she stuttered as she bowed hastily.
Elf Kingdom? I had prepared for a quick and small meeting but it looks like I'm going to have to roll out the red carpet.
[Demiurge, would you mind bringing Vega to me in addition to Go Gin? Tonight's affairs just got a little more interesting.]
[I'll head back out immediately my lord.]
[I apologize for any inconvenience.]
[Not at all my lord! With Jaldabaoth gone my schedule has become quite open.]
[My thanks.]
"My lord, you grace us with your presence," a raspy voice said, announcing its presence. Lucifer turned to see a large hunched over creature completely wrapped in red robes so that none could see any of its skin with the exception of its sickly green hands with unnaturally long fingers and the glowing red eyes that peered from beneath its hood. It was holding a cane that had a lantern tied to it This is a Gatekeeper, a mid-level summon that is extremely weak and its only real purpose is to summon [Gate]s. This particular one was named….
"Good evening Styx," Lucifer drawled. "If you would, please open a [Gate] to Nazarick. As you can see, I am having guests."
"Of course my lord," Styx hissed as he waved his hand that wasn't holding a cane and cast: "[Gate]."
Honestly, I could've just cast the spell myself but him and all the other summons and NPCs always get depressed when I don't let them do their job.
"Now then, if you would all follow me," Lucifer asked/commanded as he elegantly walked towards the [Gate], or, at least as elegantly as he could with Nemu still attached to his leg.
"Your holiness, Ainz Ooal Gown has arrived."
"Good," Maximus said stiffly. "Send him in."
"Very well," the soldier said with a bow before leaving the room. The cardinals and the Archbishop stared at the doors in anticipation, eager to meet the mystery man. Finally, after a few minutes of unbearable waiting, a tall man in silver armor entered the room.
"Good evening," Ainz greeted in a heroic tone. "I am Ainz Ooal Gown. Thank you for agreeing to see me on such short notice."
"Think nothing of it," the Cardinal of Fire said politely. "Although we would appreciate it if you would remove your helmet."
"I'm afraid that for the sake of ensuring that we stick to our reason for meeting here, it would be best if I kept it on," Ainz rebuked. "My apologies if this offends you, ma'am."
"Very well. In light of the wealth of information you offered us it wouldn't be too much to ask for us to overlook this. Besides, it would be best if we got to the point anyway," the Cardinal of Darkness cut in before anyone could protest. "Say your piece, Sir Ainz."
"Thank you. I am assembling a coalition of powerful individuals to face the Immortal Emperor and his subordinates in the hopes that we may stop him before he achieves his goal of world domination," Ainz declared.
"I see. And who is a part of this coalition?" the Cardinal of Water asked.
"The Dragon Lords of the Agrand Council Alliance, Rigrit Bers Caurau of the Thirteen Heroes, Princess Renner of the Re-Estize Kingdom, and although I have yet to approach Angela Pious with my offer, I am inclined to believe she will accept," Ainz replied.
"I take it you wish for our support when it comes time to face the Antichrist?" Maximus stated more than asked.
"That is correct."
"Seeing as how you've named yourself after Lucifer's empire of old, is it correct to assume that you were once counted among his allies?" the Cardinal of Earth inquired.
That's not too far from the truth. I'll just go with it. I don't like these assholes anyway.
"Yes."
"Then why are you attempting to bring him down? What changed?" the Cardinal of Light asked.
"Allow me to be perfectly honest. I hate your country. The things you do to the elves and other nonhuman species is repulsive," Ainz stated coldly. "However, you are only a minor evil when compared to Lucifer. This is your world, and although I don't agree with what you do, he and I have no right to interfere."
"Now that you've said that, why makes you think we would follow you into battle?" the Cardinal of Wind growled, failing to hide how insulted he felt. Strangely enough, the Cardinal of Light was grinning.
"Because Lucifer won't stop until he has the world on its knees," Ainz retorted coldly. "You've seen what he's willing to do to get what he wants. Katze Plains is a perfect example. The ends NEVER justify the means, but it appears that Lucifer doesn't see it that way."
"Hypothetically speaking, let's say we agree and follow you into battle," the Cardinal of Darkness said as he analyzed the silver armored warrior from behind his glasses. "What makes you so sure that you can defeat him?"
"He and I used to spar back when we were allies," Ainz replied soberly. "We did battle many times and he could never defeat me. However, I no longer have access to my old gear, I have gathered the best weapons and armor that I could get my hands on as well as several potent magical items looted from Eryuentiu. I'd say that with what I have at my disposal, my odds of defeating him in one on one combat are 50/50." The cardinals raised their eyebrows looking impressed. So far, these were the best chances they had heard of when it came to facing the Immortal Emperor.
"And what will you do if he is defeated?" the Cardinal of Fire asked.
"I will attempt to find a way home and leave you to your own devices," Ainz declared before trailing off so that no one could hear him. "My family must be worried sick."
"I see. According to the information you provided us, attempting to attack him in Nazarick is suicidal. Where do suggest we strike?" the Cardinal of Light asked, unnaturally calm.
"I've already set the bait," Ainz said with the slightest hint of smugness. "On my way here, I encountered an unconscious elf in the forest and laid her out on a road to be found by those loyal to the Eternal Empire. Since it is not common knowledge where the Elf Kingdom's capital is, I'm certain Lucifer will jump at the chance to conquer the elves. We'll be waiting to spring a trap when he's at his weakest."
"And then we'll kill the filthy heathen!" the Cardinal of Light shouted with a mad glint in his eye.
"Actually, I would refer to take him alive," Ainz interjected. "I know a place where I coud imprison him until I find a way for us to leave this world."
"What!?" the Cardinal of Light shrieked in anger before suddenly calming himself down. "My apologies. If you insist."
I'll just use Loginus before you get the chance to imprison him.
"We should strike when he is at his weakest," Maximus cut in. "To conquer the elves, Dracul will have to face the strongest of elves, Augustus Connard. I have no doubt he will win, but he should at least sustain SOME damage. That's when we'll strike. Dominic, dispatch a messenger to order Zesshi to stand down until she the time to face Dracul is upon us."
"Yes, your holiness," the Cardinal of Wind replied.
"If that is all, I must depart for the former Holy Kingdom immediately to collect Ms. Pious," Ainz announced as he turned to leave. "I will contact you shortly." And with that he walked out.
"Raymond! Maximilian! Prepare the Black Scripture!" Maximus ordered. "Soon we will stamp out the Antichrist once and for all! Yvon! Ginedine! Berenice! Collect the holy relics Ahura Mazda, Wrath of God, and Downfall of Castle and Country! I want everyone back here in an hour to discuss strategy, organize our defenses, and make a backup plan should this fail."
"Yes your holiness!" the cardinals shouted as everyone rushed out of the room. Nobody noticed the sick grin on the Cardinal of Light's face.
I'm sorry your holiness, but it doesn't matter what you order me to do. My destiny to kill the Antichrist is written in the stars. I FOUND LOGINUS! I AM THE ONLY ONE WHO'S TRULY STAYED LOYAL TO THE TEACHINGS OF THE SIX! I WILL BE REMEMBERED AS HUMANITY'S SAVIOUR AND BE UPLIFTED TO THE HEAVENS FOR MY SACRIFICE! It is my burden. My honor. My destiny.
Albedo was angry. No. Angry wasn't the right word. Fuming? Pissed off? Looked she was ready to tear someone's head off? Yeah, the last was perfect. That's why the four Dark Paladins Lucifer had left to guard her were giving her a wide berth as she started angrily pacing around her office.
"M-my empress," one of the paladins managed to choke out, its menacing voice unnaturally tinted with fear. "Is everything alright?"
"SHUT UP!" Albedo shrieked as she picked up the Dark Paladin and threw literally threw him out of the room.
"Milady!" another one of the cried in a panic. "You mustn't exert yourself! Not with Lord Dracul's heirs inside you! Especially when the date of their expected birth is so close!" That got Albedo to stop. After taking several deep breaths in an attempt to calm herself down and sat back down at her desk.
And then a Vampire Knight barged in.
"Milady!" he shouted, before noticing Albedo smiling at him while simultaneously giving him a death glare.
"Yeeeeeeeeesssssssssssssss?" she asked in all-too-happy.
"L-Lord Dracul has returned and asked me to inform you-" the Vampire Knight didn't even get to finish as he was unceremoniously shoved out of the way as Albedo flew towards her beloved (She could smell him. How? Albedoisms.) in a much better mood than she had been a few minutes ago.
"My lord, welcome back to Nazarick," Yuri Alpha said as she greeted her master and the large entourage he had brought with him.
"Yuri, if you would, please ask Pestonya and Sous-Chef to prepare a meal for our guests and set the dining room. I apologize for the short notice," Lucifer said.
"It is no trouble my lord. We live to serve," Yuri replied just before a blur of black, white, and feathers sped towards Lucifer and latched onto him.
"HUSBAND!" Albedo cheered as he wrapped her arms around his neck in a loving embrace.
"Hello Albedo. I missed you," Lucifer stated almost mechanically, not entirely sure what to do in this situation now that he had both Nemu and Albedo stuck to him. "Yuri, would you ensure that our guests are given proper accommodations? I expect they will be staying the night."
"Very well my lord," Yuri replied before turning to a maid who had been staring at them from behind an elegant pillar. "Tsuare, please show our guests to their rooms. I will ensure that dinner is prepared."
"Y-yes Lady Alpha!" Tsuare stammered as she came out from behind the pillar and motioned for the guests to follow her, although the only one she was really looking at was Sebas.
"Thank you Tsuare," Lucifer drawled.
"C'mon Nemu, let's get you cleaned up," Enri said before she pried her little sister off of Lucifer.
"Bye-bye Lucy-fer!" Nemu called as she was carried off by her big sister to join the rest of the group. Now it was only Lucifer and Albedo left in the room.
"Albedo, would you please get off me?" Lucifer commanded more than asked.
"I don't wanna!" Albedo pouted.
Are the NPCs really able to disobey me like this?
"Although, I may be willing to get off you, that is, if….." Albedo cooed with a distinct blush on her face as she tightened her grip on her beloved. "If you let me call you dear and darling and all those other things that married couples call each other."
GODDAMMIT! Ok, come on Lucifer, you're the Immortal Emperor, ruler of the Eternal Empire and soon the whole damn world! You're immortal for fuck's sake! She is your empress! You are responsible for making her like this, she is your responsibility, and you're going to spend the rest of your unlife with her! You better start getting comfortable around her. She I lovely after all….. BAH! FOCUS! I don't need any more vampire/demon things popping out of her right now! I don't even know what these twins are going to be like! Calm down. You've watched enough TV to know how couples are supposed to act.
"Very well…..dear," Lucifer relented. Albedo started giggling maniacally her legs tightened around Lucifer's waist and her entire body started twitching. "You were supposed to get off me, Albedo."
"I'm sorry darling," Albedo murmured in embarrassment. "But I appear to have lost control of my lower half."
Did she really just…she did. We'll have to work on that in the future.
"I believe it would be best if we made ourselves presentable," Lucifer said with a sigh as he walked off towards the Spa Resort on the 9th floor with Albedo still clinging to him.
Bonus Story: Drunks and Baby Names
Lucifer and Albedo were relaxing in one of Nazarick's high quality communal baths, just the two of them of course. A giddy Albedo was sitting in Lucifer's lap, fiddling playfully with his wet unkempt hair and her chest pressed up against his own.
They were also completely naked. Did I forget to mention that?
Is she drunk or something? She's acting like a dunk.
"Darrrrrrrrrrliiiiiiiiiiing," Albedo cooed, unceasing in her "attack" on his hair. "I've been working on more baby names."
"Oh?"
"What do you think of Kraven? Or Zalgo? Or Mal? Maybe Vlad? Lucius?" Albedo rambled on, listing many, many, MANY potential names for their soon to be born sons.
"You're majesties!" Avenir called out as she ran in, blushing furiously at the sight of her superiors in such an intimate position.
"Solution, I thought we said that we wish not to be disturbed," Albedo growled as she glared at vampire.
"My apologies milady," Avenir said with a bow. "However I was told to inform Lord Dracul that Priest Hekkeran and Priestesses Imina and Arche have been arrested. It appears that they had a little reunion, got drunk, and proceeded to makes fools of themselves."
"What did they do?" Lucifer groaned.
"Priestess Arche was arrested for attempting stealing someone's hat while Priest Hekkeran and Priestess Imina were arrested for having sex in public," Avenir reported. "They're currently in holding and awaiting release."
"I see," Lucifer groaned. "Wait until they sober up and then give them adequate slap on the wrist."
"Umm...yes sir," Avenir muttered. "Should I go orrrrrrr….."
"Yes. Go," Albedo commanded with a glare, eliciting a squeak from Avenir before she ran off. Albedo turned back to her husband. "Now where were we?"
"I believe I was about to inform the twins to watch their heads in there," Lucifer growled as he grabbed her roughly and…..I don't write lemons. Go watch porn or something.