Title: "The Nazarick Grand Prix."
Disclaimer: Overlord is owned, written and created by Kugane Maruyama.
I do not own Overlord and this literature is only and purely, a fan fiction take on Overlord.
Author's Note: Please read the previous chapter for added details, if you haven't already.
Chapter 30: The aftermath of the Draconic Kingdom Campaign.
The Beastmen themselves cowered down and prostrated themselves by instinct after they saw the figure that came out of the dark void. It was an undead bearing a black scythe and behind him, followed several Death Knights carrying the skull or rather a recognizable part of it. The Adventurers immediately knelt down in respect upon recognizing their king, while the soldiers and officers from the Draconic Kingdom copied their allies' movements in both fear and respect of the figure in front of them.
No one dared to speak before the newly arrived figure out of fear and respect (mostly fear). Meanwhile, the Beastmen were all just cowering in fear of the undead that just appeared all of a sudden. Though they know not whom the newly arrived figure is or why their human captors are kneeling (or prostrating for some) in front of this being; their instincts clearly tell them to run very far away from this undead magic caster.
"What'sss going on mother?" one of the Beastmen young asked their mother.
"I don't know. I don't know anything anymore. Now be quiet, lessst we be in more danger." The Snake woman mother replied.
Similar thoughts and talks were in the minds and hushed tongues of the frightened Beastmen. Ever since their war against the allied forces started, nothing really went well for their side. Save perhaps the fact that they still live and have been promised a chance to be treated fairly, although as prisoners. But right now, the general thought that is in the minds of the recently surrendered Beastmen; is if things would ever get better for them somehow?
"You're Majesty. We are glad to know you are safe, though we were worried the violent weather phenomenon started occurring. Are we to assume that the source of what caused all of these problems has been dealt with?" Momon asked the Sorcerer King.
"That is correct. However, I must apologise for all that. I didn't expect my spells to have brought on such impact that it would have an effect even outside of the barrier I've set up. But rest assure that the 'abomination' from the Intel reports is now permanently solved, I even got a souvenir from it." Ainz replied as he showed 'Momon' his new weapon (Scythe) letting it float while speaking in a regal but a bit casual tone. It's as if one was speaking to an old friend about some mundane topic like the weather. On the sidelines however, the people that heard of their conversation.
"I'm just glad that this whole fighting is over, for now at least. But, if I may ask your majesty. Would it be safe to send a recovery team to retrieve the remains of the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord?" Momon inquired.
"There's no need for that. Not for now anyway, as it seems that the area where we fought would be uninhabitable for quite some time. For a decade at best. Instead, we will send a quarantine team to mark the place and have the nearby areas sealed off for safety's sake. We do plan to rehabilitate the Beastman Nation first, then let them live here again under our rule after all. Of course, that's only after they have done their just punishment, as far as I'm concerned." Ainz remarked.
"Excuse me, your Highness. I am Count Arba Le-Vortim Provetos, a loyal noble and general under the command of Queen Draudillon Oriculus. My apologies for this intrusion but, are you sure that the one the Beastmen referred to as the 'abomination' is now truly gone?" The old veteran officer asked in disbelief.
"Yes, I've made sure of it. With this, the Beastmen can start to rebuild their lives and make it better. But, that would be under the Sorcerer Kingdom's guidance, of course. I hope the people of the Draconic Kingdom will not have a problem with that." Ainz said to gathered local officers before him.
"If I may? Your majesty." Count Arba Le-Vortim Provetos asked respectfully, while Ainz nodded suggesting for him to continue with what he has to say.
"Thank you, thank you your majesty. I personally have no qualms about what you've said. In time. The people of the Draconic Kingdom Especially, the survivors might not be able to accept the fact that these Beastmen can get a chance to rebuild after what they've done to us. I'm afraid this particular news won't be welcomed by our people." The old Count said.
"I can understand where you're coming from, considering all of the tragedies that you and your people have gone through in the hands of these creatures; one can't help but feel their pain. However, your queen has agreed to my terms and those terms include the clause that says 'We, of the Sorcerer Kingdom can do as we please with our prisoners'.
I know what I'm doing, and trust me when I say it's in everyone's best interest to uphold their end of the deal. In the long run you'll see that it was a wise move to let me handle your Beastmen neighbours." Ainz replied in his runabout way yet sounding mysterious. In time, your people will see that I offer a long lasting solution. Unlike the path your citizens would be willing to let their emotions lead them to. Unless I'm mistaken, that path will lead to the Draconic Kingdom's own downfall." Momonga answered in his usual kingly tone.
"Perhaps that may be so, but those talks and problems will be for later. As far I'm concerned; we have averted our nation's fall. And with the assistance your nation and its allies have provided, we can start to rebuild our lives all thanks to you your majesty." Count Arba Le-Vortim Provetos replied.
"As you say dear Count but for now, I shall leave you to your duty in bringing the good news to you queen and the rest of your nation. Also please tell her this little message from me 'Good things are coming soon for both the Draconic Kingdom, as well for the rehabilitated Beastman Nation'." Ainz said to the old Count. And such words made Count Provetos to ponder on the words that recently left the undead king's mouth, for he knows not if it should be taken as is, or was there another meaning to it perhaps.
Count Provetos recalled something from his recent conversations with the allied forces personnel a few days ago. Those from the Sorcerer Kingdom in particular, that according to the faithful ones; the Sorcerer King has already foreseen as far as ten thousand years into the future. And with those words coming back from memory, the aging noble made a mental note to speak privately with his most trusted fellows in the noble circles and with the queen. He needed to have their country secured and stabilized as soon as possible even with the Beastmen invasion already ended. For he knows that as soon as the common threat was gone, the most daring and most ambitious among the nobles and generals will try to enact their schemes to usurp the throne from Queen Draudillon. Even with the recent purge of several nobles who were found guilty of several abuses of power and conspiring to take the country for themselves, there were still several individuals within the rich and powerful circles that were able to conceal themselves and that is still a threat that looms over the Draconic Kingdom.
Snapping himself back into the present, Count Provetos nodded before the Sorcerer King and proceeded to order his men on things that needed to be done. Such as; gathering the few human survivors from the Beastmen encampments and checking on their physical and mental health, helping to bring theirs and their allies' wounded and dead for proper treatment and so on. The old Count sent one of his trusted officers, escorted by two other soldiers to bring an important instructions and a personal message to the queen as soon as possible.
Ainz then turned his attention to the captured and surrendered beastmen that were still fearing for their lives as they noticed that an undead creature was now gazing at their large group. Thousands upon thousands of the captured Beastmen were now trembling from their instincts alone, they can feel something deep inside them saying to flee from where they are right now. But since they were all already restrained both by several magical items placed on them, as well as by the magical spells casted on them by the allied forces' magic casters. After a few orders from Ainz, the Adventurers from the Sorcerer Kingdom moved to usher the Beastmen prisoners into the [Gate] that led them to the outskirts of the Abelion Hills. There, several Beastmen and Demihumans introduced themselves and explained how things will be from now on. And with that, the new addition to the Sorcerer Kingdom's vassals moved onwards to their rehabilitation and re-education.
Upon exiting the [Gate], the whole experience of travelling using such a magical spell was one of the tales that would be passed on to future generations for many years to come. Once Chief Touwill, the first one to step out of the [Gate] looked out to the new scenery. And much to his surprise, what he saw what
As for the Beastmen's punishment, it's as follows. Basically, for five years; the able bodied adult males will now do manual labor in the farms, forge and foundries within the Abelion Hills territory. The adult females will tend assisting with cooking, laundry, and processing certain food and other products from the Abelion Hills' various communities that are meant to be sold as exported goods to other allied nations. All this, while their young ones that are old enough to be educated, will be sent to a central school where they will be properly educated. After their daily school schedules, they will be sent back to the decent shelter accommodations made for their respective families. As for those who are too young to be separated from their mothers, they will remain with their mothers and their mothers will be given suitable tasks with their conditions in mind. All of these are done while they still enjoy good and fair treatment and decently comfortable living conditions.
The old ones that are not fit for work were instead tasked with watching over the young and their overall respective communities by continuing to fulfil the elderly and sage roles that they had previously. Compared to the Beastmen's former type of shelters, which are mostly huts or shacks made up of basic materials like timber roughly cut and branches to form a suitable enough home. Some of them lived in caves or dig large holes on small hills to act as a sort of home for some of them like the Snake-men and the Lion-men. But for most of the smaller species like the Rat-men and the like, they mostly live underground inside Burroughs and tunnels that they've dug by themselves.
Abelion Hills sometime after the Allied Forces' campaign ended.
It took a while for most of the adult Beastmen to fully accept their situation. The prideful ones that tried to rally their fellows to do riots and attempt to escape were dealt with by the Death Knights and Elder Liches with destructive prejudices. After a few of the rebel rousers from various captured species were executed publicly, the ones that still had some delusions of escaping had gotten with the program.
"Well, if there's one thing this world never runs out of, its fools I tell you. No matter the species, gender, or age, there's strangely an over abundance of them." Grim Claw said so after the latest execution of the last Bafolk rebel was done.
"Youth just wasted because of them being hot headed and way too prideful for their own good. I just hope that the others will learn their lesson after this." Chief Touwill, the former Chief of the Rat-men added.
"Fools! Why can't they see that the old ways won't work anymore? Though we're prisoners now, we should count ourselves still fortunate that the Sorcerer King let us live and promised that he would let us return to our homeland one day. All we had to do was do our assigned tasks, learn the kingdom's education, laws and culture and after a few years we'd be allowed to return and start a brand new life free from that accursed Dragon Lord!" one of the Yacardan elders spat.
"I know what you're saying elder. I for one am tired of fighting day and night just to survive, get a meal, and for what?! So I could be sent to another day of the same worries? Fuck that shitty life. I don't care if my own people hate me for saying this. But after having to live off the scraps thrown at me by the Lion-men warriors, I now get to actually have some people treat me with dignity. I don't know about you guys, but after our sentence is done, I'm staying here." Says one of the skinny Lycanthropes, which were working on the machines that mix the grounded cattle meat with some spices. The product being similar to the western food called 'beef jerky'.
Such sentiments were shared by those treated poorly by the more dominant species from their homeland. It even came to point that many of the Beastmen elders and sages wondered how things could have been had they known about the existence of the Sorcerer Kingdom long ago and asked for help, such thoughts and kept going through their minds as they gather and rest after sundown. The lives that could have been spared from an unnecessary war, but those were all just wishful thinking now as they were mostly under the banners of the stronger races and those races prefer the option to invade instead of trying to reason for aide.
"Alright everyone, get to sleep now. We have work tomorrow." Says one of the Rat-men elders, and with that, they went to get some much needed rest. And as for tomorrow, another days worth of labor.
The Draconic Kingdom: after the Beastmen invasion.
After the turnover of the Beastmen prisoners, the liaisons to the allied forces quickly moved to properly take care of the human survivors. At the same time, the high ranking officers immediately departed for the royal palace to meet with the queen and discuss their next moves as a country. More importantly, as a country that will soon be neighbouring the Sorcerer Kingdom from multiple sides.
After nearly two days of riding their horses with very short time to rest in between their journey, the high ranking officials that were with the allied forces finally reached the palace where the prime minister is patiently waiting for their arrival. The entire royal palace's staff was abuzz with their preparations for the upcoming meeting of the highest and richest of the "who's who" in the land. Among the attendees are several representatives of the Adventurer's Guild including "Crystal Tear" and the popular worker group known as "Optics".
"Try to behave yourself, will you? This is an important meeting with all of the nobles and the top brass among the military personnels in the kingdom." Entrent Millerit said to his friend and team leader Cerebrate.
"I know, I know, would you just stop nagging me like an old nanny? I was drunk when I last came here, ok? That's why I did what I did. Happy now?" Cerebrate retorted.
"Were you? Hmm?" Entrent Millerit asked back, not convinced of his friend's reply.
"Shush! Someone's coming, just straighten yourself. Alright?" Cerebrate snapped to his teammate.
After some whispering banters between the two team mates, they went silent as they observed and tried to recognize the people approaching and passing them by. Since they were both just standing at the side of the wide hallway heading towards the grand conference room, they were at least able to recognize most of the newly arrived individuals. Among the few that got their attention were the two members of the worker group known as 'Optics' and among the nobles and military generals, they saw Count Arba Le-Vortim Provetos with a very serious and determined look on his face, as well as his companions. Together with the old count, they also recognized Marquise Alex Dragnus Van Lagunas; who led the Draconic Kingdom's delegation team back then. After what seemed to be half an hour, the nobles, Adventurer's Guild representative, Magician's Guild representatives, and other invited individuals were informed and ushered by several servants to enter the meeting room.
After the official greetings and pleasantries, the Prime Minister properly announced the arrival of Queen Draudillon. Cerebrate was delighted but tried to keep his lust from showing, especially since his the last time he was in the palace, he was defeated, castrated (technically), emasculated and outright outclassed and humiliated. He and pretty much everyone in the Draconic Kingdom have already heard of the good news that the Beastmen invasion is now over, but he thought it was strange to end just like that. It seemed too easy, too convenient for it to be just over all of a sudden. And that's why he attended this meeting, mainly to satiate his curiosity.
"Good day, ladies and gentlemen. Her majesty has invited all of you here today to discuss our nation's best moves moving forward, now that the Beastmen invasion is finally over." The Prime Minister said as he began the meeting.
"Excuse me, but I just have to ask. Is the beastmen invasion truly over? If so, what exactly happened? It can't be over just like that right?" Cerebrate asked. And from the looks on the faces of most of the nobles and other influential people in the meeting, it seems that they've had the same question in mind as well.
"I can answer that." Queen Draudillon spoke out loud.
"Then please, enlighten us your majesty." One of the nobles asked.
"As you'd all have probably been aware. The Sorcerer Kingdom, Baharuth Empire, Re-Estize Kingdom, Argland Republic, and the Northern Roble Holy Kingdom have all sent small groups to represent their nation in with the aim of assisting our battle against the Beastmen invaders. It was through their efforts that a lot of corruption and abuses were brought to light and I made sure that they have been dealt with. But more important is the fact that they have recently ended the war that took so many from us, to better inform us about the details I will turn your attention to Count Arba Le-Vortim Provetos who has spent more time with the allied forces." Queen Draudillon replied.
Acquiescing to his queen's instructions, the old Count stood up and began speaking about his and his men's experiences travelling with the allied forces.
"Each of the Allied Forces' military delegations have their own skills and specialties. Like the veteran knights of the Baharuth Empire, two Legions of them were sent here to help. The Argland Republic sent a sizeable number of their military forces though they were made up of various races. And there's the Paladins from the Northern Holy Kingdom, they're quite formidable on horsebacks and they also possess the ability to use magic like healing and combat enhancement spells. Also from the Holy Kingdom, the volunteers from the religious group known as Ainzists came to help, together with their Paladin Counterparts. For those who are not aware, Ainzists are what the followers of Ainzism call themselves and Ainzism is the newly founded religion based on the belief that the Sorcerer King; Ainz Ooal Gown is a god and they try to follow his examples and teachings. (This earned various reactions throughout the room.)
Anyway, regardless of what any of us might think about the Sorcerer King or his nation, fact is fact. And that fact is that they are clearly the most powerful nation in the continent. I'll speak about that a bit later on.
… And it was then that we truly understood; that the reformed Adventurer's Guild really does revere their King in the highest regard. At first, I thought that they only showed respect towards the Sorcerer King because they fear him and his power. What Marquise Van Lagunas reported back then was the truth.
Make no mistake, when they say their adventurers say that they are of the Adamantite ranks, they truly are of the Adamantite ranks. Yes, their new training methods or whatever it is that they're doing in the Sorcerer Kingdom's Adventurer's Guild is truly effective and it works! And speaking of Adamantite ranked adventurers; their leader, the one who's known only as Momon. As far as I can tell from what I have observed on him and his team, whether in battle or during normal activities; they are way superior to their comrades.
Even during their first battle against the Yacardas tribes, Team Darkness' fighting prowess is terrifyingly beyond legendary." Count Provetos said as he made shared his personal experiences throughout their campaign.
"Now, that is truly something. Knowing you for a long time now old friend, you don't give out praises to anyone easily. Come to think of it; you haven't praised anyone as a fighter, like… ever. So, what do you think it is that made their Adventurers so strong in just a few years?" One of the elder nobles asked.
"I'm sorry. But, I truly have no clue." Count Provetos replied.
"That's something we'll have to investigate when we get the chance. Perhaps we can try whatever it is that they're doing over there and apply it to our own Adventurer's Guild?" One of the other nobles said after looking at their own Guild's master.
"… In the end. After the hard fought battle, we were able to relish the best victory over the Beastmen that were cowering for their families and their own safety. (Many of the people in the room closed their eyes to savor the tales brought to their ears.) That sweet victory was very short lived, however. Because shortly, we noticed the skies slowly turned grey and we felt the ground shaking as we heard footsteps that could only be produced by something of titanic proportions.
It turned out; that the 'abomination' the Beastmen were talking about was true after all. But before we could even gather our thoughts, Momon of Team Darkness informed us that we were all to secure the Beastmen prisoners and make haste towards the nearest forward camp for our safety. Also, only a few selected would remain to make certain preparations and fight against the approaching creature.
And my queen. Given your own heritage, I am truly sorry to say that the abomination the beastmen spoke of was actually one of the few remaining Elder Dragon Lords. According to the Fire Dragon Lord, the creature was originally known as Cure Elim Los Malvar. But then, held the moniker 'Elder Coffin Dragon Lord' after turning himself into an undead Dragon Lord." Count Provetos went on. Meanwhile, Queen Draudillon was clearly ashamed that the main source of her nation's problem was one of her ancient heritage's kin.
"Please continue." Queen Draudillon urged on.
"According to the information shared by the Sorcerer King, the undead Dragon Lord that was gathering as many souls as it could for centuries. So he could use the souls gathered from the dead to empower him and his spells for some long-term goal that the Sorcerer King never did shared. However, if I were to guess anything about the undead Dragon Lord's plans? I'll bet it won't be anything good." Count Provetos explained further.
"If the undead Dragon Lord has been killing innocents for a long time to harvest souls, do you think that he's also responsible for the mysterious fall of several ancient kingdoms like the kingdom of Inveria and the ancient Beastmen Kingdom before they reverted back to being savages?" One of the elderly scholars asked in serious curiosity.
"I don't know. But, it could be possible. Since those places you've mentioned happen to be not too far from Mount Keitenias, and that's somewhere I'd rather stay away." Count Provetos replied.
"If what you gentlemen, suspect about the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord's actions within the last few hundred years are correct? Then the Allied Forces did not just save us all but also helped to bring the souls of all of its victims to peace. I can't help but notice; that as time grew by here; we seem to have more and more of things to be thankful to them." Queen Draudillon added.
The meetings went on as they listened to Count Provetos' report on what happened in the battle against the Beastmen. The fact that the Sorcerer King was able to singlehandedly defeat a powerful creature a bit hard to believe for some of them, but seeing as the recent weather anomalies and the powerful earthquakes were felt all the way up to the Capital; they had no choice but to take it as fact. This news in particular; worried many of them, especially the Prime Minister. The load of information they had gained this day alone was too much to bear for some, none of them could ever even imagine such actual existence of powers as such.
Though many were shocked and worried, there were those that looked at the recent events in the positive light. The end of the invasion and the cleansing of their nation, together with the potential of a better future, proven already through the existence of the new innovations from the Sorcerer Kingdom; made an even better alternative ending in this chapter for their nation's story.
Marquise Alex' enthusiasm for the improvement of their nation was seconded by the queen herself. At this point, Queen Draudillon brought about the topic of potentially offering their nation as a vassal under the Sorcerer Kingdom's banner. Naturally, there were some that opposed the idea, regardless of the upsides it may bring. But since they were now aware of the terrifying magical powers, they have no choice but to accept the facts and do their end of the bargain.
"Need I remind you that it was the Sorcerer King himself that has just recently defeated a true Dragon Lord, and if he can do that much damage from the heart of the Beastman Nation and the effect of such magical powers can be felt all the way to here? Then, you should know NOT to do anything to upset something or someone that can DO THAT!? Am I clear?" Queen Draudillon retorted to silence the bickering of the young nobles in the room.
"Please listen, all of you. The way things are now, I'd say we've gotten a lot more benefits than loses in the deal we've agree to. And as her majesty already pointed out, not keeping our end of the bargain would only put us as the next target of the Allied Forces. Even worse is that we'd be the Sorcerer Kingdom's next opponent. And by far, it was only the Sorcerer King himself that has been known to have shown any martial prowess from that nation. I guess we all know what happened after that?" The Prime Minister added.
"Now for the new nobles, think about it. Yes, we lose some of our nation's territory. But, those areas are found on the border's sides neighbouring the Beastmen Nation. After all; those areas are practically just the size of one or two small villages lined up from the coast, to edge of the borders near the Vast Scorching Deserts. After this, it'll be the Sorcerer Kingdom's responsibility to guard against the Beastman Nation and by then; I'm guessing that country would be under their rule if it hasn't been under them already." One of the older nobles said, following up on the Prime Minister's words.
Some of the nobles and various Guild representatives were still angry about the fact that the ones who invaded their lands and killed their countrymen are only being punished by sending them away to do free labor for about five years of so. And then they will be allowed to return to their native homeland as if nothing ever happened. Of course, that was only their understanding on what the Sorcerer King asked regarding the non human prisoners. But, fume as they might. The agreement had already been signed by their own queen and there's nothing they could do about it now.
Queen Draudillon, the Prime Minister, Marquise Alex, Count Provetos and especially Count Cal Kuluz kept in mind the names and faces of certain nobles, that might try to sabotage the implementations of the agreement regarding the turnover of the areas that were within the border territory. A prospect that the Sorcerer Kingdom Liaison looked forward to handling as soon as his boss; Demiurge, gives him and his staff the go signal.
"Oh, I almost forgot. Your majesty, we must take this opportunity to enhance our own forces. Not just for our own defences, but also for certain events in the future. Namely, we need the Magician's Guild, the Adventurer's Guild, and also the Workers (if you have a guild of your own) to start and implement new and improved training programs for your respective members. This goes for our soldiers as well." Marquise Alex commented.
"Is this about that 'World Championship Challenge' that you've mentioned in your report?" Queen Draudillon asked.
"Yes, it is exactly about that. Seeing as we are no longer under threat of the Beastmen's invasion, we now have the time to strengthen our rebuild our nation and uplift morale at the same time. However, and it pains me to say this. We are terribly and hilariously outdone and outclassed when compared to our neighbouring nations' martial prowess. Especially, when compared to those from the Sorcerer Kingdom.
And I'm only referring to their adventurers and magic casters. I'm not even including the more powerful beings like dragons, legendary undead, and so on. We need to try and catch up, unless we want to be the laughing stock of the continent." Marquise Alex added.
"Excuse me, Marquise Lagunas. I understand what you're trying to say, but us being 'hilariously outdone' is too much. Don't you think?" The leader of the Draconic Kingdom's Magician's Guild commented.
"Not at all, I understand that we didn't have anyone from the Magician's Guild with us when we went to the Sorcerer Kingdom. But that's alright. I will explain it briefly, especially for those that wasn't here when I reported about it.
Back then during the last days of the Pioneer's Holiday, they gathered every delegation team for a sporting event. These sports events are meant to showcase skills, physique, strength, accuracy, precision and overall combat prowess through certain task-specific competitions.
Examples of the featured competitions are archery, armed close contact combat, hand-to-hand combat, running races, etc. And as for the magic casters, there will be series of equivalent sets of competitions to evaluate effective magical prowess. We've seen the entirety of those events. Trust me when I say we're lagging behind, way behind the other nations.
The Evangelist Neia Baraja was able to make accurate shots from hundreds of meters, while using an ordinary bow and arrow. No enchantments whatsoever. Momon shocked everyone when he effectively demonstrated a new kind of martial art technique, the kind that blurs the line between [Martial Arts] and magic spells, despite not being a magic caster. While the other adventurers from the Baharuth Empire were able to clearly showcase why they're Adamantite-ranked Adventurers." Marquise Alex Dragnus Van Lagunas replied.
"Excuse me, Lord Lagunas. But, are you saying that we of 'Crystal Tear are not worthy of being Adamantite-ranked?!" Cerebrate asked.
"No, I'm not saying that. You and your team have already proven your combat skills to be of Adamantite-ranking. (Cerebrate just raised an eyebrow with a doubtful expression on his face.) But with all due respect; if we were to compare our nation's adventurers and magic casters against those from the Sorcerer Kingdom, ours would be ranked lower than their Adamantite-ranked Adventurers." Marquise Alex spoke bluntly. One might notice that it might be a bit out of his character.
"As painful as those words might be to our pride. We must face facts, and fact is that the world around us is changing. Like it or not, the Sorcerer Kingdom's existence has been the most life changing influence within the continent by far. Whether we make their existence work to our advantage or against us, all depends on our nation's actions as a whole from this point forward. I hope, for all our sakes; that my words don't fall on deaf ears." The Prime Minister spoke with his sage-like tone.
The councillors and other VIP's took a moment to ponder on the information that's been dumped on them just now. The meeting proceeded on how they would take part in future international concerns like economics and trades following the new system that was proposed by the Sorcerer King. They also paid special attention on how to prepare for future international events that would potentially boost their economy. Namely; the Continental Grand Prix, the World Championship Challenge, the Ultimate Magic Caster's Challenge since those would bring recognition and prestige to the winners of such events.
They also discussed about making preparations for building the necessary infrastructures like proper roads, improved lodgings for tourists, race tracks to be set on former barren lands and so on. More importantly, on how to relocate the survivors or mainly the former residents of the lands that will be given up to be used as a "buffer zone" between the Draconic Kingdom and the Beastmen Nation. When all of the important topics were covered and dealt with, Queen Draudillon put her signature on the formal documents proposing that they be a part of the Sorcerer Kingdom.
As for the citizens of the Draconic Kingdom; most of them took advantage of the new air of peace around them to try to get their bearings straight. The more mature ones thought of how to get any decent jobs to sustain themselves and their families. (For those that still have some, anyway.)
It would take another month or two before Queen Draudillon could make the formal announcement of her nation's vassalization publicly. And during those days, many people were relocated to areas bordering near the City State Alliance and the Baharuth Empire. From the plains that they used to live on; which was suitable for farming various crops, the relocated survivors are now re acclimatizing themselves into their new environment near the mountains. Once they planted crops, now they planted and harvest fruits, vegetables and herbs. Though live near the mountains was much troublesome compared to life on the low lands, the relocated ones still preferred it due to the safety it offers and the distance from the former cities that would remind them of the horrors they went through back then.
The former plains are still being used as major farmlands. But now, the farming duties were mostly done by the undead labourers that many nobles and merchants rented from the Sorcerer Kingdom. Even the queen herself invested in various opportunities to ensure that she has a stable economy and enough resources to help sustain her nation if the need ever arise. The queen also invested in recruiting worthy individuals as a separate military sub group to make them easier to deploy in response to emergencies and whatever the queen would need them for.
Northern Roble Holy Kingdom.
After the fall of the undead Dragon Lord, Neia Baraja and her companions stayed in the Draconic Kingdom for a few more days. To preach about her faith and the teachings from the 'Black Guide' (Ainz' version of the bible). She did this as she and her companions volunteered to help escort those who chose to relocate near the mountain areas where they will be closer to the Baharuth Empire and to the City-State Alliance. For about half of their journey, the two legions of Imperial Knights accompanied them as they were returning to the Empire and the paths they would take won't be far off.
The survivors, contrary to most people's expectations; were the ones that took the time to listen to the Ainzist's preachings. To them, the Sorcerer King's teachings makes sense. For it was their lack of strength that allowed the Beastmen to capture, torture and devour many of their families and friends. It was the Beastmen's natural strength that allowed them to overpower the defenders of the fallen villages and cities, none of them could have won against their former captors due to their own weaknesses. And when one adds up the fact that Neia and her companions were among the ones that survived and endured Jaldabaoth's invasion; it makes sense to them since they know that the ones preaching to them really knows what it's like to be in their shoes.
The connection born from being both survivors and former victims of Beastmen invaders, made it easier for Neia and her fellow evangelists to deliver their message across the travelling masses. Several days of camping out in the wilderness while travelling with numerous people reminded Neia of the times she was still a Paladin travelling, hunting, foraging and scouting to help the people survive and avoid enemy encounters. A whiff of nostalgia was in the air as she also remembered how she and her parents would go on camping trips when she was much younger. At the memories of her late parents and friends, even the 'Mad-eyed archer' couldn't help but shed some tears from her eyes.
"Let me guess. You just remembered Pavel didn't you? C'mon, it's me your talking to. You know you can talk to me about these kinds of things." Reynaldo Quazet told Neia.
"I know that, uncle Reynaldo. It's just that I really miss them. I wish they were here right now to see the wonders that the world would offer, the changes being brought about by his majesty. See a world where they won't have to fight the Beastmen from the Abelion Hills anymore. I just couldn't help but wonder sometimes. What would my father and mother be doing if they didn't have to spend so much time guarding the walls and patrolling the borders?" Neia replied.
"Honestly, I ask those questions too sometimes. Good old' Pavel. He'd probably be an Adventurer most likely. He was one of the few that could adapt and embrace Mother Nature's curse and blessings. That's why we like being around him, no dull moment, all action with that guy. But, if it's any consolation? I'd say he managed to succeed in raising a good kid like you. You remind of my own little Ariela. If she was still alive, she'd be just about your age.
Oh, now I'm crying too, dammit. Well, you should get some rest now. I'll take first shift in guarding the perimeter. Besides, we can't have our car drivers falling asleep tomorrow when we're tracking the mountain sides now, can we?" Reynaldo chuckled. With that, Neia and the other evangelists went in to their respective tents and get some sleep. After a few hours, it would be the some of the Draconic Kingdom's soldiers' turn to do guard duties.
As morning came, the caravan of survivors went on to cook food for the rest of the group. They opted to delegate certain duties to those that were most adept at them. Such tasks like cooking and preparing food were assigned mostly to women and children, while hunting and gathering edible herbs and plants were mostly assigned to men and former soldiers.
As they travelled on, they apply the knowledge that they've gained from Neia's preachings. Information on how to properly set a security perimeter and putting up sentry posts, etc. Even though some parts of their journey was hard and really tested their mettle, the survivors simply said; "I've survived the Beastmen invasion somehow, no way some strong water current is going to kill me now." and with a mindset like so, they moved on towards where they felt they could build a new community and start their lives all new.
By nightfall, Reynaldo was silently sitting on a large rock as he watched over the campsite from a distance. Soon, a voice called out to him and handed him his meal and his drink. The stranger turned out to be one of the recently retired soldiers that opted to start a new life, a life away from the traumas and all the fighting as much as possible.
"Hey, now. What's gotten you looking distant? Anyway, here's your meal. Sorry about the portions, but, we need to make the supplies last as long as possible. The name's Renault Clio, former soldier of the Draconic Kingdom. And you are?" Renault asked after introducing himself.
"Thank you. I'm Reynaldo Quazet, a former noble and Paladin from the Southern Holy Kingdom. Now, a follower of Neia Baraja and of course; a fellow Ainzist." Reynaldo answered as he began to eat his meal.
The two former warriors silently ate their meals, all the while paying vigilant attention to their surroundings for possible bandits or wild animals.
"Say. Can I ask how a former noble from the Southern Holy Kingdom ended being an Ainzist? If I recall it correctly, Paladins are also believers of the six or four gods or something, right?" Renault asked out of curiosity.
"We'll let me see… I was born from the Southern Roble Holy Kingdom, came from a family that belonged to what they refer to as 'the minor nobility'. It's practically what most people from other countries would call as the middle class. They just want it to sound fancy I guess. Pretty much, a middle-class in other nation's terms. I'd say. When I was just a kid, my father thought it would be best to expand the family business and move to the Northern Roble Holy Kingdom. It was there that I first undergo my martial training, pretty much all citizens are required to undergo military training so that they could be called upon as army reserves in times of need.
You see, even way back then, our nation would be regularly attacked by beastmen or other demihumans from the neighbouring areas. Most frequently from the inhabitants of the Abelion Hills, similar to your nation's previous circumstances. During my training, I met two of whom I'd get to call my closest friends; Pavel Baraja and Maria Clarado. While I was still in Hoburns, we were almost always together. Training, studying, hunting, camping, even when playing pranks on some of our fellow paladins. Those two are quite lucky to have been free to love whom they choose, while I was locked on to a fixed marriage." Reynaldo explained with a chuckle.
"Though being in a fixed marriage isn't exactly great, it couldn't be all that bad, right?" Renault asked.
"No, no it's not. Unless, you return home early to find your superior officer's thing fixing itself into your fixed marriage wife. I also found out that my then, two year old son wasn't even mine. Even worse, is that when I filed for divorce and a civil and criminal case in court; hoping to get some justice against those that have betrayed my trust. It turns out that my senior officer has some very close ties to the magistrates and even to the Custodio Family, which makes him practically having ties to the highest officials in the kingdom. In short, I got fucked.
The upper assholes were keen on protecting their 'shining' image to the public. So, they set up a lot of false claims and testimonies to make me look like the worst husband and an even worse paladin. I would have rotted in jail if it wasn't for Pavel and Maria's testimonies on my behalf. Of course, Pavel being one of the so-called 'colors' really helped a lot; as he is one of the nation's top heroes then and until he died." Reynaldo continued.
"I'm sorry for all that's happened to you. For what it's worth, you and your comrades are doing good and meaningful work right here. If I haven't said it yet, I'll say it now; thank you for helping save this nation. It might mean nothing coming from a broken soldier, but I for one, am truly grateful to be alive today." Renault replied, followed by a salute and a bow which earned him a respectful nod and salute from the Ainzist warrior.
"It's good to be appreciated. I couldn't be more at home than with the group I'm with now, especially now that I serve a god that brought forth justice for my two best friends. And in two weeks time, we return home to defend it from those sissy-pants Southerners." Reynaldo said with a bit of gusto.
"Wait a minute. You said, you were from the Southern Holy Kingdom, right?"
"Yeah, I did. What about it?" Reynaldo asked curiously.
"From what I've heard from the other soldiers, the Southern Holy Kingdom had already declared war on the Northern Holy Kingdom was already making preparations for an invasion. Doesn't that make you feel conflicted somehow?" Renault asked.
"Nah. I got no family left in the south. In fact, I'm volunteering to be on the front lines for this one."
"Huh? Why? You're not exactly young anymore you know? Just saying." Renault retorted.
"Well, remember my senior officer and my ex-wife that I told you earlier? (Renault nodded) After my failed court hearing, I found out that they both moved to the south to start a new life with all of my family's business rights and wealth. Last I heard about them, they were living luxuriously from the pained labors of the peasants that they overworked on the fields. That alone is enough motivation for me to fight and kill those high-nosed sissies." Reynaldo answered.
"I don't blame you. As for me though, I'm just tired of fighting under the command of corrupt assholes. It turned out that the noble that owned the land that encompassed our town, was among those that hoarded the donations that were meant to be given to the citizens. They're all dead now. But still, I just don't want to be around those shitty kinds of people anymore. You get my meaning?" Renault told a very short explanation of his own reason for leaving the army.
The two exchanged stories to pass the time, until their replacements came and they both went their own ways and tried to get some sleep after that. Eventually, after a few days of travelling. The hopeful group of peasants, merchants, soldiers, retired soldiers, adventurers found a flat area where they could build a new community. The flat lands was near a sizeable forest and a huge lake, while the surrounding areas are rich with various plant life that could feed their live stocks that in turn; would feed them.
These lands were once owned by the late Marquise Drazinis Oriculus, who was executed after his corruption and other crimes were exposed by the events during the Campaign of the Allied Forces. Now, these lands were given to the people who will be represented by a council of village leaders in the Royal Court. And as an added bonus, they would be exempted from taxes for the whole year. A gesture most welcomed by the common folks, especially by the survivors.
Two days, after finding a suitable place to start a new town. The Ainzists went on to return to the Roble Holy Kingdom, where they will be sent to battle once again. But this time, it will be to defend their own homeland from the traitors that left them to their fate when they needed them most. Neia's group left two of their evangelists to stay with the new townsfolk, and made sure to continue spreading their lord's teachings. This in turn, converted about seventy percent of the townsfolk and the people themselves initiated that a church for Ainzism be built. This new building will also double as a school to provide education for the residents, especially for the children and those that aspire to be tradesman/ merchants. The new church also acts in part as a hospital for health care services, and for martial training as well.
The newly built town which was named Hope's Haven was mostly populated by peasants, smiths, former soldiers, lower ranked adventurers and the like. They all looked at each coming day as a new challenge and a new blessing.
Roland Tuck, the lively and younger one of the two Ainzist evangelists that happened to be a son of a successful merchant and was gifted by his father with a hatchback model car. The car itself being used to travel to nearby villages and into the nearest city and sometimes, even to the capital to purchase needed supplies for the town of Hope's Haven.
Hilario Chaperon, a former priest of the religion of the four gods. Now, the senior evangelist of the two. He was one of the tortured prisoners of the demons directly under Jaldabaoth's command, many years ago. After his tragic experience and losses at the hands of his tormentors, he cursed the so-called four gods for not even helping niece and nephew to survive and escape the siege fronted by the Demihumans being led by the demon Jaldabaoth. In an ironic twist of fate, he could hardly believe that it was an undead that came from a far nation to help them survive and actually liberate him and his fellow prisoners from the clutches of despair. Soon enough after the death of Jaldabaoth, he heard a young girl wearing some strange visor to cover her eyes while preaching to the crowd in Kalinsha. The young lady spoke about the true meaning of justice, and on how the many forms of weakness allowed such tragedies to happen. While still mourning the deaths of his niece and nephew, as well as the loss of his friends and countrymen; he stayed his ear and listen to the young evangelist.
The fact that someone was preaching that an undead was some kind of god of justice, was just insane and outright blasphemy for the ears of a priest of the four gods. But, that was not the case for someone who now hated the 'gods' that never answered any of his prayers when their followers truly needed them the most. From that point on, he would take the time to listen to Neia's teachings about the Sorcerer King and his vision of turning the world into a Utopia, a perfect place to live in.
The idea made a lot of sense to him after giving it some deep thought. When one thinks about it, if your neighbour was a friend, an ally, or even a neutral party; then they are not one's enemy. And thus; the chances of peaceful coexistence increases. And in the realms of a peaceful coexistence; the chances of innovations and enlightenment becomes closer to reality in a more practical manner.
After nearly five years of being an active follower and supporter of Ainzism, he felt his life having a real sense of meaning and purpose once again. His time and efforts spent in the study and preaching of the new faith was further strengthened when he was able to see their hardwork actually improving the lives of the people they've helped in the past years. Now, together with his good friend Roland Tuck; they aim to help point the people live better lives by helping them be better people through the teachings from 'The Black Guide' (The Book of Ainz Ooal Gown). And with the founding of the new town, they started to leave their mark in history through the fulfilment of their vocation.
Southern Holy Kingdom.
It was now nearly two months since he last met with Dominic, the former Cardinal of the Slaine Theocracy. Duke Derwenze Coultrenas Fiat, who through his own schemes and efforts; have become the appointed leader and soon to be king of the entire Holy Kingdom, by his secret faction. He was now standing on his mansion's balcony looking at the men and women polishing their combat skills, for very soon; they will march into victory and dethrone the puppet king of the Northern Holy Kingdom.
After enjoying his lunch, his butler approached him and whispered something in his ear. He stood up to meet his newly arrived guests that were waiting for him in the waiting room. There he met co conspirators, but he noticed that there were some new faces within the group. He asked for their identities and then proceeded to the meeting at hand. After an hour or so, they had finalized all of their planned moves for their so-called crusade into the Northern Roble Holy kingdom.
Thinking that their northern counterparts; were still mostly focused in the rebuilding efforts and stabilizing their economy. The Dukes, Marquise, and other like-minded rich person in the group thought it would be best to take advantage of the countryside since they expected such areas to be less populated. And the less the population are in such locations; the lesser the chances of said location to properly guarded. With tactics likely in mind, Duke Derwenze joined his entire army as they marched towards north, two days after their final strategic meeting.
Northern Roble Holy Kingdom's Royal Palace (Current time)
King Caspond was now at the end of Neia's report on all that has happened during the Allied Forces' Campaign against the Beastmen Invaders, when a messenger entered the court and kneeled down on one knee, while trying to catch his breath. Seeing as the messenger was sweating profusely and breathing quickly and heavily to catch his breath; Caspond asked some servants to bring the man some water and waited for the messenger to regain his composure.
"King Caspond. My sincerest apologies for this intrusion, but I bring some most urgent news from our spies. The southern armies have already assembled and have now reached the Border's villages. Even worse; another large number of soldiers have made their way towards the countryside. According to our other spies; they might be trying to flank us beginning from the areas with the weakest security.
Our allies' operatives, estimates that they will reach the City of Albrun within three days. That is, if they continue with their current pace. That is all your highness." The Messenger reported.
"Thank you for this vital information. Get some rest, you've earned it." Caspond commended the messenger.
"Thank you, your highness. I shall take my leave." The messenger replied in kind.
"It seems that their declaration of war wasn't a bluff after all." King Caspond sarcastically commented.
"Permission to speak, your highness." One of the surviving military Generals spoke out loud.
"Yes, please speak your mind, General Atrovias." Caspond replied.
"It's just that I find it strange that the Southern Nobles would only attack us now after half a decade, when we've already rebuild our nation. If I were the attacking party, I'd attack when my opponent's at their weakest." General Atrovias wondered.
"I think it's possible that back then, they still entertain the notion that they must keep up their images as true nobles, and just left us to our devices somehow." One of the nobles started.
"Or maybe, they've recently found something that could back them up?" Neia asked.
"Chances are, it's most likely that they've found someone that could. Or maybe, that someone found them. It's the most logical explanation that I can think of right now, anyway.
The question now, is how do we proceed against the southerners?" Caspond replied, then asked his council.
Suddenly, a circular dark void appeared in the middle of the room. And a cold, rigid voice spoke from it.
"I believe we can be of help in fixing that problem."
"What the… Who's there? Show yourself."
"Who said that just now?"
Such were the startled responses of the ones that were recently put into their new positions, and thus, are not yet used to these kinds of circumstances regarding handling anything from the Sorcerer Kingdom.
The one stepped out of the [Gate] was wore a maid's outfit, matched with a camouflage scarf. Her eye-patch doesn't even diminish her cute looks.
Author's Note: My apologies on the long absence. Truth be told, one of the reasons for this; is that my laptop has some hard drive issues. Sometimes it powers up when I turn it on, and 9 percent of the time, it doesn't. Other than that would be my personal life being busy in getting my work done.
I haven't abandoned this story, nor my other fan fiction stories and original literary works. Just needed more time to get things done, while I'm trying to sort out my life first.
Thank you, to all of those that gave positive reviews and fair criticisms. As for the haters; relax. If you don't like what I do? Then don't read it. Simple, right?
Stay safe and have a merry Christmas and a happy new year.
