Written by oblivon2991
Proofread by the Members of The Usual Gang of Drunken Perverted Idiots
Thank you for reading my fanfic and for giving me a chance.
My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.
I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.
I would like to thank the excellent job that the Skythewood translator team has done with the light novel translation.
Without their hard and persistent work, I surely couldn't write this story.
Please review it. I know I will make mistakes, and I intend to correct them, as well as try to learn from them and improve myself.
Thank you!
Now let's continue our little story!
Chapter 40: The Gala of Shadows (Part 1)
It came to light that the invitation Raidyn and Elysia received was indeed special.
According to the elven ambassador: only the most important people from the Empire and the surrounding nations were invited.
It is almost unheard of in history that simple adventurers — like the two —receive an invitation out of nowhere!
And as such, the elven ambassador was quite insistent on calling forth the best tutors available to teach Raidyn and Elysia the etiquette and other necessary things to participate in that gala.
Time was short, which forced them to act in haste, making the two adventurers participate in this little "game," making the two spend the little time before the gala with intense preparations.
Learning how to eat properly, speak and walk, converse, choose appropriate dresses, and, of course, dance!
"And one! And two! And three…!"
And here they are now! Only a little bit more than a day away from the event, and an instructor trying to teach the two players some kind of dance — trying was the keyword.
The soft music started to play by the enchanted device, filtering out from this sizable room. Of course, the melodic music right away was interrupted by a loud shout.
"No! No! No! Wrong! Again…!" 'Slap!' A hard slap echoed through the embassy's halls as the instructor hit his palm with his flexible stick — which looked like a crop.
The guards guarding the nearby door can't help but shudder slightly. This went on for hours and doesn't seem to stop anytime soon.
"What's your problem again?!"
"Your synchrony with your partner is completely off! Please, Lady Raidyn, look out for your steps! You and Lady Elysia are invited by the Emperor personally. Not to mention, you are also royalty, Lady Raidyn."
"I told you, I am not from the Elven Kingdom. Ergo, I am not royalty, capiche?" Raidyn pointed at the fancy man after snapping her finger.
"Hmm… whatever is the case, your eyes and your potential tells otherwise, which means you represent the Elven Kingdom as a whole before the Emperor. You can't allow any misconduct during the introductory dance! Now again…! One and two! And…"
"Tch! Damn you and your damn dance! First, you want to teach me how to eat, then how to walk and speak. Then want me to wear those disgusting frilly clothes and high heels!? Now, this!? I give up! I will not attend that stupid party. Send a clone, a dummy, or I don't care!" Obviously, Raidyn reached the breaking point.
Somehow, Elysia convinced her to wear this beautiful dress with a corset and high heels to the practice. Still, unlike the kitsune — who seemed to enjoy being dressed up in pretty dresses — Raidyn was visibly disgusted seeing herself wearing it before the mirror.
"Lady Raidyn, please don't jest! This occasion is…"
"Find another clown." Removing the heels, showing a middle finger to the man, she walked away.
"Haah… Lady Elysia, can you convince her somehow?"
"Ah! I can try. But I am not sure I will succeed. She looked rather… determined." Elysia has no idea what her companion's problem is. They were taught how to act like noble ladies, dance and dressed up in pretty dresses — with a price tag that probably worth a lesser country — not to mention, they can attend a fancy party. What more can a girl wish for? What is Raidyn's problem?
"I mean, I am not really a "party face"… but even I would not miss this chance to experience a gala like this at least once." All those different kinds of food they can taste would be a good enough reason alone to attend. Not to mention the different wines and champagne, those are surely tasty.
Elysia herself was not really interested in those pompous people. Her only reason to attend was the food, booze, and to experience such a party at least once.
"Thank you, Lady Elysia." The elegant man sighed in relief. "Time is short. In around twelve hours, you need to start your final preparation. Wash up, do your hair and makeup, and don your clothes. It is unfortunate, but with this speed, you will not have time to take a few hours of beauty sleep."
"Wait… Wait! Wait! Wait! You say we can't even sleep!? We do this for more than a day, and we can't even sleep?"
"There is no need to worry, Lady Elysia. We have specialized alchemical supplements to increase stamina and remove exhaustion, make yourself look and feel fresh. You will see, in no time, you two will feel like you slept for days."
"Wow! That sounds great!"
"Now then, please, can you convince Lady Raidyn? Time is short, and we have much to do."
"Right…" Sighing, Elysia removed her shoes, starting to sprint towards the exit.
She didn't need to search for long, as she sat on the roof, watching as the first rays of the sun slowly appeared on the horizon.
"Finally, I found you."
"Took you long enough — considering I didn't even go that far."
"Bad day?"
"Ever since that invitation came, I have had a bad day." Raidyn sighed, letting herself fall to her back. "I mean… seriously! Who wants to go to that fancy party? There are only problems with it. I have better things to do—for example, paperwork. Do you know how much paperwork accumulated on my desk since we took this stupid mission? It will take weeks to go through it once I return!"
"No?" What is she babbling about? Who wants to do paperwork? "Do you really like doing paperwork that much? And wait? Isn't your friend and servants taking care of that?"
"Well, you may not know, but when you guys sleep, I usually leave an aether clone behind and return to Nazarick to finish up with some paperwork and do a few experiments." She liked to do the important stuff herself, or something might elude her attention.
"I recognized…" Elysia sweatdropped. "What are those [Aether Clones] anyway?"
"Psychic version of [Shadow Clones]."
"Ah, I see…" There are many manga and anime where ninjas use Shadow Clones. Thus even Elysia knew what a [Shadow Clone] was.
"Easily disposable, but can do a few basic interactions and follow orders." Under "easily disposable," Esdeath meant: by high-level players.
Such clones made by a high-level psychic user like Esdeath probably can end countries alone in this world.
"Though, they have concentration upkeep. So, I usually dispel them when not in use. Otherwise, I would use them all the time to read, research, and do the work while I am away."
"Huh… You are really a workaholic. Do you even sleep?"
"Sometimes, but thanks to this new body, I don't really need to sleep, and until now found nothing that exhausted me. I guess my stamina is either really infinite here or regenerates faster than I can spend it."
"Damn! That's cool. Just don't tell your partner. A woman with an inexhaustible appetite is probably scary for most men."
"What do you mean by that?" Esdeath glanced at Elysia, confused, almost innocent.
"Oh! Nothing. Ufufu…" Esdeath didn't like the way how Elysia chuckled, making her remember Peroroncino for some reason.
"Anyway, what did you do with that pretty dress? It really suits you." Now, as Elysia watched her fellow player, that dress these people gave her nowhere to be seen. Instead, she wore what looked like a simple suit similar to a butler.
"Burned it."
"Wha…?! You burned it!? But… But it fit you so well! That dress was so beautiful!"
"Nah, not my style." Esdeath started to pick her ear, seemingly unconcerned.
"I don't understand you. These dresses are glorious and beautiful! Are you secretly a guy or what?"
"…" Esdeath remained silent for a moment, playing with her fingers.
"Well…?"
"It is complicated."
"What do you mean, complicated?"
"It is not my style, ok? Amongst other reasons…"
"Care to tell?"
Why was she so insistent? What will she say if she admits what "she" was before?
"She surely starts screaming or something worse." Esdeath already saw her naked, which was alone a good reason for most girls to shout with a guy and call them a pervert.
"So?" Now Elysia started to tap her leg on the roof. The pressure was really unbearable.
"I… I am just not for dresses and other girly stuff, ok? How can you even wear that corset without suffocating, or not fall over with that heels?"
She only hopes she will be satisfied with this much and leaves her alone.
"Ah! I see. You are a tomboy then!"
"So-Something like that." The bullet was seemingly dodged. Or, at least she hoped so.
"Ufufufu! For a moment, I thought you were a guy who played with a female character. God! Those guys were so gross! Most likely all of them are fat losers who never touched a girl. But a tomboy? That's so cute!"
"Eh… I am sure there is more behind it…" Loser? Maybe? Esdeath herself was never popular with girls — and anyone in general due to her general dislike of social interaction and poor social skills.
But to say it to her face so directly? She can't help but feel slightly offended.
"You know, I might be…"
"You know, Raidyn, or should I call you Esdeath?"
"I-I suppose both are good."
"This scenery is so romantic. You know, like in those old movies. Don't you think?" Elysia sat down, leaning over her shoulder, and gave away a sigh of relief.
"I-I guess you are right." Esdeath can't help but shutter and gulp. The slight sweat mixed with the perfume Elysia applied, and the scent of her freshly washed hair made her strangely nervous.
Her heart started to beat faster, her mouth turned dry and produced more saliva as she subtly sniffed Elysia's hair. A strange feeling of heat washing over her.
"You know, I…"
"Lady Raidyn! Lady Elysia! We finally found you!" Before them, several masked figures appeared, having pointed ears and wearing a cloak above their tight leather gear.
"Forgive our disturbance. But Lord Ulrond sent us to find you. If you want to attend the Emperor's gala, you need to continue with your preparations."
Great, now they disturbed such a serene moment.
Esdeath didn't know if she would be glad for these guys saving her from a probably awkward situation or angry disturbing this moment that could probably lead to a more "intimate" situation — a path which usually develops from situations like this in novels and games.
"And you guys are?"
"Please forgive us. We are the Special Taskforce of the Elf Kingdom. Our unit is called the Ungoren."
"Eh? Really? The Ambassador really sent a special task force just to find us?" What an utter waste! The ambassador really likes to waste money with such a thing — it seems.
But really! Why send a whole special task force just to find them? She was already there. Isn't that the reason they sent her to find Raidyn?
"Yes, Lord Ulrond was really worried after the instructor reported to him Lady Raidyn's sudden disappearance. Worrying Lady Elysia might not find her in time, he sent us."
"Well, now you found us. What now?"
"We hoped you two would come back to us to finish the preparation."
"Well, you see…"
"Please, Lady Raidyn, please understand. Our nation's relationship with the Empire might depend on it. Ignoring the Emperor's personal invitation can cause serious diplomatic repercussions. "
"In that case, we will go right away! Right, Raidyn?" Elysia stood up, watching Esdeath expectantly.
"Well…"
"Splendid! We will notify your instructor and the ambassador! Thank you for your cooperation." With that, the elves disappeared, leaving the two alone.
"Great…"
"So, will you come? Please?" Elysia offered her hand, glancing down at the still sitting Esdeath.
"I guess there is nothing I can do with this. I will suffer through that party." She accepted Elysia's hand, standing up.
"Ufufufu! Don't worry; I will try to make it bearable for you." Esdeath can't help but smile seeing Elysia's playfully stuck tongue.
"I am counting on you…"
"By the way… what did you do with that boy? He disappeared from our room."
"Well…" While she didn't tell Elysia, the problem was already taken care of by the servants. As for how? It will come to light later.
Scene Change: Somewhere in Arwintar:
"My Prince! My Prince! Please wake up! The sun already rose!" The maid gently notified the sleeping figure, nudging him gently.
"Mmmm…"
With a sleepy expression, the man rose from his King-sized bed, rubbing his sleepy eyes.
"Hmm…" Not even bothered by the maid, he slowly pushed himself to the side of his sizable sleeping place and walked to the nearby washbowl, washing his face before staring in the mirror before him.
His hair was blonde and messy, under his eyes, deep dark circles visible — signalling his lack of sleep during the night — his face gloomy, almost unhappy, looking exhausted even after laying in his bed for hours.
"Another day… huh?" He muttered, caressing the slight stubble on his chubby face. "Let's start the preparation."
"As you wish, my Prince!" Several maids entered the luxurious room after the head maid clapped her hands, starting the lengthy process to prepare this royal individual for his day.
From washing his teeth to shaving his face, combing his blonde hair, and entirely clothing him into the finest clothes one can buy, the maids all did for him. After a hearty breakfast, he finally sat behind his luxurious worktable.
"What will be my schedule for today?" The Prince asked the assistant on his side.
"First, a meeting is scheduled with the local Ambassador…"
And the assistant started to list the things fate put on the Second Prince's plate for today. The man already feared this would be a long day, and he was not wrong.
As he listened to the assistant with half an ear and read the papers with the royal seal, he could not be closer to the truth.
"And finally, the Grand Gala held in the Imperial Palace tonight, my Prince. As per your father's orders, you must attend to represent the…"
"I know…" The young Prince sighed, almost annoyed. "That's why father sent me, remember?"
Though his father should attend the Gala personally — considering its importance — it is hardly possible because of his current state of health.
Even his musclehead brother would be fine as he is the current heir of the throne. But to send him amongst all? The Emperor might take it as an insult.
"Hmm, because of father's failing health, he can't really travel long distances anymore. And sending my brother? Well…"
No, that's a bad idea. Allowing that buffoon to attend alone might end in catastrophe.
"His ego and his false sense of intelligence might be the end of the Kingdom one day…"
There is nothing much to say about it. His brother was a muscle headed idiot. Too power-hungry for his own good.
A few good words easily deceive him and flattering his ego almost guarantees you are on his good side.
If the King sends him to this nest of vipers, they will swallow him alive. Hell! He will most likely gamble away the whole Kingdom if he participates alone without proper supervision!
"Sending both of us was also out of the question!" If they both got captured — in the worst case killed — only that "monster" remains to inherit the Kingdom.
And in her hands, the young Prince dreaded what would await the people of his nation.
"Indeed, it seems, I am the sacrificial lamb of the family. If I get captured or killed, the Kingdom suffers no real damage."
Unlike the Kingdom's fate, his death will be fast, or he will spend his remaining days in captivity. Hopefully, in luxury, befit to a high-ranked political prisoner like him.
In that case, he will watch the Kingdom slowly die from his "cage" after his father succumbs to old age and illness.
After that, the Kingdom would most likely fall into the hands of an incompetent brother — who will be either manipulated or controlled by his sister or overthrown by the nobles — The schemers who will sell the whole Kingdom to the Empire, the Theocracy, or both.
"Haah!" The Prince slowly drank his caffeine-enriched drink, trying to hiss away such thoughts.
No wonder he was always exhausted. He had a whole kingdom to safe keep from the idiots and schemers intending to ruin it, and his only real help was Marquis Raeven.
"How bothersome…" Signing and finally stamping a document, he put it in the completed stack.
"Let's hope this party will be at least interesting."
As he heard, two prominent Adamantine-ranked adventurers from the Kingdom were also here.
"Maybe if I can meet them somehow, I can recruit them to our purpose."
He needed allies more than ever. His sister already has the Blue Rose on his side. Why shouldn't he also befriend a few adventurer groups?
"They have their uses, after all… who knows when you need a monster hunter specialist? Especially if one lives in the exact same place as you."
At that moment, an idea was born in the head of Zanac Valleon Igana Ryle Vaiself. A plan to secure himself and the Kingdom's future.
Scene Change: Arwintar: The Night of the Gala:
Many carriages rode in one after another in the middle of the cobbled street, escorted by their entourage, watched by the less fortunate from the two sides of the road.
"So beautiful!"
"They really outdid themselves this year!"
Each year this happens. Each year the Emperor and the Empire spend the taxpayers' money to provide lavish parties to the selected few, providing a little bit of celebration and attraction to the many.
"Ah!"
'Bang! Bang! Bang!'
The skies above the Empire already filled with the colors of the many different fireworks, lighting it up almost like it would be already morning.
They were little toys made by alchemy and a little bit of dwarven engineering, yet, their effect was great on the people who watched them.
"Woah! So beautiful!" Elysia's eyes shone in the elven carriage, leaning out from the window and looking up at the sky.
"Indeed, Lady Elysia, the Founding day of the Empire really is the brightest day of all in this country." Hummed the elven ambassador who inhabited the same carriage as her.
"It must cost a great deal."
"Well, that's obvious." Hummed Raidyn.
"Yes, each year, the Emperor tries to outdo himself — as his predecessors did so. You can call this a small race between different Emperors through history."
"I see…"
"Lady Raidyn. Lady Elysia. I had no time yet to ask. But please, can you tell me where you came from?" the beautiful elf lady asked, occupying the seat near the elven ambassador.
Her hair was made into a towering bun. On her face, less makeup than one may expect from the Lady of her standing. She was just natural beauty, clothed entirely in the finest dress her husband can allow from his generous pay.
All in all, she was beautiful and slender, befitting an elven noble, holding a fan in her hand and slowly fanning herself.
"Well, it's complicated…" Elysia muttered, glancing at Raidyn.
"How so? Aren't Lady Elysia from the land of the beasts? And Lady Raidyn from somewhere else?"
"Land of the beasts?"
"Ah! Please forgive me, northwest from the troll and Minotaur kingdom. A plain filled with savage beasts, similar kitsune races like Lady Elysia also live scattered in tribes there. Though they can be found all around the beastmen inhabited zones, their concentration is the biggest there. Curiously, most of them carry more beastly features than Lady Elysia herself…"
"Wow! There is a place like that?"
"You can believe my dear, Lady Elysia. She is highly learned when it comes to geography. She is an acknowledged cartographer not only in our nation but even in the Empire. Ask her anything, and she knows it."
"Oh, you! Ufufufu!" Chuckled sultrily the beautiful Lady. "Oh, dear! You flatter me!"
"Nonsense, dear, you deserve every praise you get." The two snuggled together.
"Ah, it is so good to see honest love. It is rare nowadays…" It was really heartwarming seeing these two. At least, it was for Elysia, as for Raidyn? She never really liked love stories.
"So, you say, you have detailed maps from all around the world?" No, Esdeath only cared about gathering information.
"Ah! Yes, my dear, has quite a collection."
"Hmm…"
"May lady Raidyn be interested in cartography?"
"Somewhat. In an alien environment, the first thing to do is to map the surroundings. Thus, if you don't mind, I would like to check out those maps."
"I see, so Lady Raidyn is not from around."
"Yes, you can say that. You can even say this is an entirely new world for me. I came here through a teleportation accident."
"Ah! How exciting! You need to tell me about it later, once things settle a little bit."
"With pleasure."
Slowly, the carriages rolled before the Imperial Palace.
Made entirely from some kind of white stone, towering way above the capitol buildings, the Imperial Palace hid behind an inner layer of walls that protected it from anyone entering uninvited.
The city itself was a modern marvel compared to any city in the Re-Estize Kingdom, and this was even more true to the Imperial Palace and its surrounding. The surrounding area housed the prestigious magical academy, many universities, and governmental institutions.
On the extensive white stairs leading to the double-sided alloy doors, the red carpet already laid, on the two sides, the Empire's finest knights lined in neat rows, awaiting the arriving figures.
"Lady Raidyn. Lady Elysia. Please, follow me. Let's keep the protocol."
Ulrond helped down his wife, elegantly leading her up on the stairs. Behind them, Elysia and Raidyn followed.
Meanwhile, Elysia wore a beautiful dress with a heavy skirt that hid her tail and a corset that offered a small cleavage. Raidyn wore an elegant suit befit to the occasion — for the disapproval of their teacher, the ambassador, his wife, and Elysia herself, of course.
No way would she wear that dress again she did for the practice. That much was more than enough for a life! Of course, their "teacher" and the ambassador profoundly disagreed, but at that point, the player simply couldn't care.
"Lord Ulrond Del'Baran Dion of Elvion, the Ambassador of the Elven nation, and his wife, Aleesia Umelen Al'Cairalei of Drovion."
As they entered the main ballroom, the announcer right away announced them one after the other.
"Lady Elysia of Re-Estize, and Lady Raidyn of Re-Estize. Adamantine ranked adventurers."
There were already many people present, all going silent suddenly as they heard their name and occupation. Or, better said, the lack of fancy names and titles that followed, but above all, their unusual profession.
"Well, this is awkward…"
"Just smile and play along." Elysia forced a smile, nudging Raidyn to proceed.
Many whispers started as the two proceeded downward from the wide stairs leading to the hall.
The guards on the sides wore no armor but similar uniforms to what the Swiss Guards wore in the Vatican of old, carrying halberds on their shoulders.
The huge room was already stuffed. Even on the second level, many nobles conversed, drinking and eating to their heart's content.
Above them, five huge crystal chandeliers illuminated the hall — all surrounded the biggest one in the middle.
All illuminated the painting adorned the ceiling, a ceiling mural that depicted the history of the Empire as a whole.
The black and white marble flooring and the white walls that were lined with gold really symbolized the wealth the Empire possessed.
The golden statues that depicted the previous Emperors and held the heavy pillars above them were only the topping of this already magnificent display of wealth and waste of the taxpayers' money.
"The demon-slayer and the demon fox here?"
"Who, though?"
Elysia grimaced as she was called "Demon Fox," "Simple sidekick," and many more things as she and Raidyn walked amongst the people.
It was somewhat offensive, especially because she can hear them all clearly — thanks to her sharper-than-normal demi-human senses.
"Why is she wearing men's clothing?"
"Have they brought no escort?"
"How unusual… two women together?" Hearing further comments just made things worse.
"I feel they want to pick on us because we have not come with an escort."
"Or because it is unusual for a girl to wear men's clothing at such a prestigious party?" Elysia quipped sarcastically.
"You are not helping…"
"Look, if you had accepted one of the options, we both would have a normal escort." Elysia grimaced, remembering how many handsome men from the elven embassy offered to escort them. "But no! You just said: "I will simply come alone!" Now I have to escort you because otherwise, people would laugh at you. Or worse, you would simply pull yourself out from this event too."
"Who said I care if they laugh at me?" Raidyn rolled her eyes as the two girls bickered between each other. "Why do you even care?"
"Tch! That Ainz fellow asked me to look out for you. It seems he knows you well enough to ask me to do this."
"…" Raidyn screamed internally as she shivered.
She and Momonga always exchange information about their situation so they are less likely to be caught off guard. But him actually asking Elysia to make sure she will not escape!? What the heck!?
"Not as she can stop me." Yet, she was still here. Why was she still here?
Esdeath searched the answer but found none. It was nonsensical, yet, she still did it! She went against her own reasoning and actually remained because this girl held her arm and told her to come.
"I am really becoming henpecked. I don't know if I should thank Momonga or rather berate him now — forcing me in such a situation."
The air felt heavy as everyone watched them slowly proceeding behind the elven ambassador and his wife. Raidyn and Elysia crossed one of their arms as a bride and husband would, moving forth slowly.
"Haah! It can't be helped. Let's make the best of this situation. At least I can taste the tasty-looking food served in this gala." Looking around was enough for her to acquire new targets for her "food-stalking" routine.
"Well, what now?"
"I don't know. Just like you, I never participated in fancy parties before. I guess we should blend in."
"Easier said than done…" Raidyn sweatdropped, already regretting coming here.
"Maybe we should stick to the ambassador. He looks like he knows what he is doing."
"Or we should simply hide in a corner and wait this out," Raidyn whispered, not so spirited.
So many people watching them really started to bring out her anxiety.
"Don't be such a coward…!" Elysia elbowed Raidyn's side, glaring slightly at her.
"Lady Raidyn. Lady Elysia. Please enjoy the party. My dear wife and I need to catch up with a few important people."
"Bureaucracy?"
"Yes, as you say. It is unfortunate, but it comes with the job."
"I see... so you throw us before the hyenas."
"Ah! Don't fret, Lady Raidyn. Steel hardens under pressure. I am sure you and Lady Elysia will manage. Don't worry. We will be around. Still, I advise you not to give away any sensitive information. People around tend to use it against you."
"Thanks, I guess…" Raidyn sweatdropped, feeling this can't end well.
"I just ask you not to wander too far. We don't want any diplomatic incident to occur on this important night."
"Then why not stay around and actually cover us?" The adventurer wanted to say but rather held her tongue.
"Ah! My friend! So you came!"
With that, the ambassador and his wife left, leaving poor Elysia and Raidyn alone amidst the vultures.
"They just ditched us?"
"I am afraid…"
"What to do then?"
"Look small and raid the buffet?"
The two glanced towards the closest buffet table, already surrounded by many chattering individuals.
"Now that you say it..." Elysia started to grin as she looked back at Raidyn. "I thought you would never ask. I am famished! Thanks to that practice, I had no chance to eat anything!"
"Well, it is decided then!"
With steady yet hasty steps, the two-headed towards the buffet. Their mouths are already watering, waiting to taste the different delicacies the party offered.
They were almost there! They already felt the different roasted meat and the spices that seasoned them, when suddenly…!
"Ah! How curious! So you are that adventurer we hear so much about!"
"Ah! Yes, from the Re-Estize Kingdom!"
"What was their name?"
"Silver Wolf, dear… Silver Wolf…"
"Ah! First, that Blue Rose. Then Red Drop. Then that Darkness. Then comes silver? I thought Gold would be the next."
They were only stopped once, and they were immediately surrounded by several nobles who seemingly had no other thing to do just to block their path and start their meaningless mingle.
"Shit…!"
Raidyn really wanted to go and fill her belly, push to the side these morons who block her way.
The only reason she didn't do so was because Elysia asked her via [Message] to bear a little bit.
"Momonga also said we need connections and info. It is unfortunate, but these slug politicians are probably our best chance to get that." How will she do that? She had no idea, but Momonga asked her to try it.
Ainz had his "poker face," which was a great help dealing with annoying people, and pretended he understood them. Her? It was another story. She had no idea how to actually do it, which meant the difficulty bar was raised considerably.
"All I can do is force a smile and nod… I don't even know what to say to these people. They just speak and speak, but I feel no meaning behind their words."
More and more, her eyes wandered to the table not far from her. She wanted to taste them so much! So close, yet so far, her goal was. All those tasty-looking food and drinks were just a few steps away!
"Guuuh! I am so hungry!" She tried to curb the sounds her stomach made, placing her hand over her belly subtly.
"Where is that ambassador when you need him?" He was right there, not far from them, of course, heartily chatting with other people, only giving them a glance to check everything was alright. But seeing no uproar coming from their direction, he returned to his duties.
"No! Don't turn away!"
It was a lost cause. She had to bear with this bunch.
Time passed painfully slowly as these people surrounded them, forcing them to a standstill and mingle.
More and more people were coming forth to speak with them. Their number is endless, exchanging each other like some endless zombie horde in a game.
"Seriously! One leaves, two more come! Are there no end to their numbers!?"
"Esteemed Lords and Ladies! The Emperor of the Baharuth Empire! Emperor Jircniv Rune Farlord El Nix!"
Everyone turned towards the announcer, spotting a dashing figure on the top of the stairs. He was flanked by the two men sporting brownish armor and several more white armored bodyguards.
"…"
For a moment, he and his escort stopped on the top of the stairs, looking around and inspecting the people below, smiling bright and careless.
"Nobles, friends from all around the Empire and the surrounding countries…" His voice can be heard all around, most likely due to the effect of a magic item.
"Tonight, we gathered as one, celebrating another splendorous year! The Empire witnessed growth never seen before in recent years. Corruption eliminated! Poverty all around the country is falling. Welfare increased! The threat of demi-humans and monsters pushed back! Most would stay idle and say: "This is well enough! I did enough to make my country great!" But not me. I say: this is just the beginning! This is not even the tip of the iceberg! I say… we still have much to do!"
The people just listened as the blonde Emperor inspected the crowd below, almost like staring in their very soul with his clear purple eyes, reading them out from tip to toe.
"Of course, many of you carry a grudge against me. Either out of jealousy or because of my harsh but necessary steps to banish corruption from our ranks. But I say: please do so. This only means my work earns some result."
Some glared at the Emperor, doing so subtly by increasing their grip around their glass of champagne. Yet, the commoners who rose to noble rank after Jircniv saw their potential nodded in agreement, supporting their Emperor with all their heart.
"In the coming years, I plan to continue my work! In the coming years, I will do my best to raise our Empire to a never-seen height! In the coming years, I will double… no! Triple my efforts! I will bring true my father's dream, making the Empire the most splendorous country amongst all! I hope you as well join my effort, for our success is in the interest of not only our country but the interest of everyone around us. For our success is the means of mankind's survival! I hope you as well join my effort… for this is the interest of all of us. Noble ladies and gentlemen, I wish you the most pleasant night. Enjoy yourself in this… humble party we organized for you."
A storm of applause crowned the Emperor's speech, and the man started his slow descent. Behind him, two Imperial Knights and several more fully armored bodyguards escorting.
"It was a splendid speech, my Emperor," Baziwood whispered, subtly leaning closer to Jircniv's ear.
"Hmm, you think so?"
"Definitely." Hummed the Imperial Knight. "Just look at them; their reaction is evident."
"But the problem still persists, your Imperial Majesty, if I may speak my mind."
"Please, do so… Nimble." The Emperor hummed as he continued to wave and smile, walking down on the stairs in a steady space. No one heard them, thanks to the noise and distance of the people below them.
"In a crowd like this, the chance someone is trying something is highly likely. Please forgive my honesty, but after what happened just a few days ago, I disapprove of such reckless appearance."
"Hmm, thank you for your general concern, but everything is under control." That smile the Emperor offered made Nimble more uneasy than usual.
He was too reckless for his own liking. Of course, he trusted his leader's judgment with all his heart. But after this speech which possibly angered many present nobles — whose houses greatly diminished after the "great purge" — and with many foreigners present, he would look behind his back twice.
"A striking speech, that's for sure…"
"He must have a lot of friends." Muttered Raidyn and Elysia one after another, sweatdropping.
An honest politician? They usually do not live long. They already wondered how long his reign would last.
"Last time that thing almost got him." It was only due to Esdeath the Emperor was saved. Those two guys with him were maybe stronger than most people around but were still outmatched by the being that attacked — not by much, she might add.
Once the Emperor was done, the max they could do is to win some time before they were killed.
"Yes, that's his imperial majesty to you." Finally, the elven ambassador and his wife returned to their side, watching as slowly but surely the Emperor started his idle chatter with the people around. "He always loved to stand out."
"And now, noble ladies and gentlemen. Let's proceed to the crown jewel of the night! The opening dance!" Said so the announcer, using an enchanted item to make his voice heard by all.
"..." Elysia and Raidyn glanced at each other and gulped. The dreaded moment came, the moment neither of them was prepared for.
'Gulp!'
The big question still stood: How the hell should they perform well with so little practice?
Slowly, the melodic music started to play, and the Emperor opened the dance, taking his main concubine to the dance floor, who already awaited him at the base of the stairs.
The people around joined them one by one, transforming the middle section into a moving choreography of waltzing people.
"Come…" Elysia tried to pull Raidyn, but her leg rooted to the ground, she didn't budge. "Hey! Come, what's the matter? It is time!"
"Ah! My friend just sent me a [Message]; I need to go urgently."
"Liar!" Elysia glared at her. "You face a monstrous demon, but you are afraid of dancing?"
"Yes…" Esdeath deadpanned. It was a sad fact, but she rather faced a thousand demons than dance.
"Hmph! Fine then! If you do not come, I will ask Auriel to make you another cake!"
"!" Raidyn started to shiver after Elysia threatened her.
Last time when her creation awaited her return with a cake, she almost got poisoned — despite her heavy poison resistance and wearing items that supposedly give her poison immunity.
Of course, she had to stuff it all down — smiling all along — else, the poor innocent angel would be sad.
"Haah! Be it your way then."
The kitsune girl grinned triumphant, pulling her fellow player in the fray.
"Just follow my lead, just as we practiced."
Many eyes followed their steps. Led by the kitsune's practiced moves, followed by Raidyn's agility, the two showed a dance to the grand public never seen before.
Their practice was short, but it was evident that Elysia had a knack for picking up moves and Raidyn to follow her lead.
Moment by moment, the melodic music intensified, making the pairs pick up the rhythm faster and faster, increasing the Imperial-style waltz's tempo! The people seeing the dynamic duo created a bigger and bigger space around them, making them unintentionally become the center of attention!
Their synchrony was peerless and elegant, leaving in the dust even the most practiced pair around them, creating more than a dance! They created moving art!
And when finally the music suddenly ended, Raidyn held Elysia, leaning on her as she leaned forth. The kitsune's shapely leg is caressing Raidyn's stone-hard tight.
"..."
Silence descended to the whole gala room as everyone held their breath.
"Did we mess it up?"
"Eh? Well, I followed the steps of the instructor…" muttered Elysia, unsure, the two still holding that "uncomfortable" position.
"Bravo!" Finally, a storm of applause welcomed their performance, and only now they recognized the wide space between them and the rest of the dancers around.
"Umm…!"
"Eiii!"
Immediately, Raidyn released Elysia — making her fall to the ground and yelp — blushing intensely as she cleared her throat. She definitely didn't expect such a reception.
Scene Change: In Nazarick:
The silence was prevalent in Ainz's suite.
Watching them dance through the [Mirror of Remote Viewing] — supplemented with a special item that allowed him to divine farther and through walls — he can't really find words to what he had witnessed.
You may ask why he spied after his friend like this?
His answer would be the next: "I just wanted to see how such a party is conducted — as I have never seen such a thing before. It is really exciting! I learned so much!"
And indeed, the party Pluton Ainzach — the adventurer guild master of E-Rantel — put together was just a friendly meeting between friends compared to this.
Yet, before the servants, his answer was different. It needed to be different, or his image as the all-knowing Overlord of the Great Tomb of Nazarick would have shattered like a frail glass against a Warhammer!
"..." Just now, this kind of answer was awaited by Albedo, and Auriel, who stood guard behind his back — Like a literal devil and angel who peeked over his shoulders to make — from their point of view — the "right decision."
"Well…" But how to answer such a question? Ainz pondered hard, even humming with his nonexistent throat.
As he gets to know from his friend, Auriel is made to be innocent, just like a child, asking questions not out of any second, backstabbing intention, but out of curiosity. In that case…
"Ah! She is like a child — with big knockers. Which means she can ask questions I am completely unprepared for. Ahh… this is worse than when Demiurge and Albedo ask questions."
Not as he thought himself competent enough to answer questions. He usually leaves that to Demiurge, who can fill the holes with his absurd theories.
"But Demiurge is not around… not this time…" This left him alone in trouble, to figure out an answer — that hopefully — will satisfy these two women.
"Auriel, if I didn't know you. I would say you intended to insult Ainz-sama's intelligence and decision." Albedo started to glare at the Arch Seraph visibly.
"N-No! I would never dare…" Fidgeted and shuttered the meek girl.
"Hmm, you ask why I watch them. I wonder, what do you think?" That's it! If it works with Demiurge, hopefully, it works with these two.
"If you allow me to guess, Ainz-sama, to gloat on the cluelessness of these lower life forms. To measure their threat and draw out a possible enemy. If they can't even sense such an obvious attempt to spy, they are no threat at all."
"I see… so you think that way." Ainz masked his surprise under a hum, listening to Albedo's explanation.
What? Does she think that? True, he may have used a "less than elegant" method to inspect the party, but he set up plenty of anti-divination measurements to cover his tracks. And to say "lower lifeforms"? Albedo is starting it again.
"Auriel?"
"Umm… I think Ainz-sama was curious how mother is doing? About the party and the people?"
"!" She knows it! She knows the exact reason!
"Why!? Just why did you make her so obvious that she knows what I'm thinking for real!?"
Does that mean he was too obvious? The over-glorified intelligence and craft Demiurge and Albedo praised was nothing? Yes, that was the case... He was just a salaryman with little to no practice and education. This was the unfortunate truth.
"Don't be ridiculous!" Albedo snapped at Auriel and clicked her tongue. "Such simple reasons are beyond Ainz-sama's thinking. Ainz-sama has participated in grander parties before! Right, Ainz-sama?"
Albedo turned her gaze at Ainz, watching him and awaiting his answer with great anticipation.
Great. Now, this again. How will he escape this situation? Without Demiurge to explain his absurd theories to everyone, he was outgunned.
"Khm… yes, that was also my intention. Of course, the slight curiosity about how my friend is doing was there."
"Ah! I see, so Ainz-sama has other things going in his mind, just as expected from my Lord."
"Ye-Yes…" Nodded the meek girl — following Albedo's example.
"…" Ainz furrowed his metaphysical brow, more and more confused about what more Albedo can come up with.
Should he deny or confirm these claims?
"No…" After pondering for several seconds, he decided to neither confirm nor deny anything. The confusion between these two girls was already bad enough. It was better to remain silent and not give ground baseless assumptions.
Right! He just remains silent, and inspects the happening further, leaving the two girls with their own theories.
Scene Change: Back in the party, an hour later:
At least an hour passed since the dance, and Esdeath can only confirm one thing… she hated this party with a passion.
She barely managed to eat a few bites, as every time she stopped, she was swarmed by those cockroaches that surrounded them and started to speak nonsense. It seems their little performance really impressed them.
"At least, I managed to find a few contacts thanks to Ambassador Ulrond." The man managed to introduce her to several important nobles, earning her connections they can later use.
"Still, it was too much!"
In the end, having no other really interesting or important noble they can use for the later stages, she somehow managed to get away — leaving Elysia behind to take the brunt of the "abuse." Finding a relative "calm" corner outside of the balcony where people mostly left her alone.
"Sorry, Elysia, but it is either this or bearing them more." And as said, she had enough.
"Finding the crowd disturbing?" A calm voice came behind her, a voice of a stocky figure as she got to know when she glanced slightly over her shoulder.
"Oh, yeah. They are indeed… too much. If you allow me to say this." Great… once again, someone found her.
"Indeed, they are…" The figure chuckled, stepping on her side. "… Sometimes they are more trouble than they are worth."
"So, you as well would rather be elsewhere?"
"Hmm, more like I enjoy the solitude of my domain than parties like this. There is a certain charm in silence."
"I can see the merit of it. Silence indeed eases the mind." Raidyn raised her glass of champagne, inspecting it for a moment before gulping it all in one go. "Yuck! I don't even like champagne."
A masked servant just came, and she just instinctively grabbed a glass.
She doesn't even want to drink it. Hell! Due to her poison resistance she can't even get drunk! She just needed some alcohol... The feeling as she gulps down some alcoholic beverage!
"Not to mention the most likely price of this fancy drink… " Thus, not wanting to be wasteful, she forced the drink down with a sour expression.
"It is not for everyone. That we can agree." Chuckled the blonde man while shaking his head, also inspecting his glass. "No matter how wondrous items the Empire possesses, we can all agree, their taste in drinks is awful."
That glass of drink that most likely cost months' worth of salary of a simple soldier this person just poured out. Tilting his glass and giving it to the town below.
"I didn't catch your name, pal. Have we met yet?"
"Hmm, I don't think so. But let me correct this small mistake… "pal". I am Zanac Valleon Igana Ryle Vaiself, the second Prince of the Re-Estize Kingdom. It is a pleasure to meet you." The Prince bowed, befitting of his position and education.
"Oh! I see. Sorry if I sounded rude, your Majesty?" Raidyn scratched her head confused, quickly making a small curtsey. She really doesn't know how to call such fancy people or how to treat them.
"A few times, we almost started a duel because we addressed a few people wrongly. If not for the Ambassador coming to our rescue, we probably ended up in a fight."
A fight that most likely would end up in their favor. But most likely raise more attention than needed.
"Hmm… I am no king — not yet, at least. Currently, the correct address is His Royal Highness, Prince of… and my titles. But I think we can leave that behind, considering you as well probably royal blood, Lady Raidyn. In that case, my Lord will do. And I will address you as my Lady…" Explained the second Prince with great patience.
"Ugh! Please don't start. Ever since those elves popped up, everyone thinks I am some glorified royalty. Wait!? You know who I am?"
"Oh! But of course! Who doesn't? Your entrance with your partner was really... spectacular. But at the same time, unusual. Just like your dance, if I can compliment you, my Lady."
"Typical…"
Zanach chuckled as a small smile formed on his face.
"It is not every day a woman accompanies another one to an event like this. Especially not clothed as a butler. Especially not two exotic beauties. One demi-human, the second is bearing the mark of elven royalty. Who wouldn't recognize such a thing?" cackled low at the man, almost like he found all of this embarrassingly funny.
"Haah! I messed up, didn't I?"
"Depends on… if Lady Raidyn wanted attention, she got it, especially with that spectacular performance on the stage."
"You really like to mock people, don't you?" Deadpanned the player pouting. "I mean… my Lord."
"Please, forgive me. It was not my intention. I just stated the obvious."
"Probably…" Raidyn rolled her eyes.
"If you allow me to say this. You are different than I thought." Zanach turned to Raidyn for a moment, raising his brow slightly. "Much more different…"
"How so?"
"Hmm, I have my sources. Recently, two adamantine groups appeared in the Kingdom. Quite unexpected, if I may say…" Muttered Zanach thinking. "One is a group named Darkness, with only two members. Led by the heroic Momon… The second is named Silver Wolf — your group — also consisting of two members. Probably led by you…"
"We can argue about that. Elysia can be quite pushy sometimes." Esdeath sweatdropped. Sometimes Elysia was just too willful.
"Unfortunately, there are people like that. But moving on, what I heard, you single-handedly saved E-Rantel from a demonic invasion. Beheaded a rampaging basilisk with a single strike, and we can further list your accomplishments. Are these rumors true or not? Please forgive my curiosity; some of these "stories" are hard to believe. Bards usually exaggerate and color stories when spreading the news. I need confirmation from the source."
Raidyn raised her brow, almost scoffing.
As she gets to know, bards are like the bloggers or press of this world —except they only used the verbal channel to pass their folktales, news, and stories, ignoring the visual and written part most of the time.
They traveled the world, gathering stories and news, then selling them for coins, spreading the tales of heroes most of the time, but also sharing stories about catastrophes, monsters, murder or other kinds of stuff.
"Quite an unreliable bunch…"
Most of the time, they color their stories and even twist them greatly to sell better. That's why… after listening to a few of them, she and Momonga decided not to waste any more time, energy, and money on them.
Their "news" might have some truth content, but to differentiate the truth under all that bullshit and fiction these people mixed in their stories was a waste of time and energy.
They are better off relying on spies and building an information network from scratch.
"I can only say you can't believe everything a bard says, Prince Zanach. Most of the time, those people simply want to sell their story."
"I agree. Most of the time, they are not a reliable source of information." The Prince smiled smugly. "Yet, there are exceptions. There are ways to find the truth under all that nonsense."
"You don't say…" Raidyn shook her head, grimacing, and Zanach smiled smugly.
Visibly, the Prince enjoyed this little game.
"What about another topic? Seemingly, you don't enjoy speaking about these adventures of yours." Whatever was the reason he said this, Esdeath has no clue.
"Maybe I showed a little bit of annoyance?" Maybe, she can't mask her emotions as well as Momonga.
"Besides, those bards and their exaggerations really are annoying. Not to mention the stories they started to spread."
Thanks to them, she can't go anywhere in the country without being recognized. Not to speak about a few shops in E-Rantel that started to sell toys about her, Elysia, Momon, and Nabe, and started to use their name for advertising themselves.
"They have the nerve! When we visited and questioned them, they said we should thank them!" Those morons did not even offer to pay a royalty for the use of their name and fame to sell toys or advertise their products!
Bunch of pricks, Esdeath hated their kind.
"It's not like that…" Raidyn scratched the back of her head sheepishly. "More precisely, I never said that. I was just saying: those bards spreading many ridiculous rumors. They cannot be trusted. That's all. Besides, these missions are not interesting at all, just monster extermination. Kill it. Harvest it. Then complete the quest. That's it…"
"Now, now, I am sure it is more than that."
"But really, that's how it is! If I can complain… Since coming to your country and signing up as an adventurer, I don't feel like an adventurer at all, but a glorified monster exterminator mercenary. If I knew it was like this, I should not have signed up at all. It was much different at home. More… adventurous."
Zanach blinked, surprised by what Raidyn told him.
"Well, enlighten me then, please. How should an adventurer function according to you?"
"Hmm… First thing…" And thus, Raidyn, aka Esdeath, started to list what she and Momonga thought when they signed up as adventurers. What YGGDRASIL offered as an adventure compared to this world's so-called "adventurer's guild."
…
Meanwhile, in another segment of the room, Elysia cursed Raidyn, for she left her at the mercy of these people.
"Guuh! Once I get her…!" One moment Raidyn was on her side. The next, she completely disappeared, leaving her to suffer alone! "That wench…!" She bit her tongue in rage.
Now she had to deal with these nobles alone, not to mention how hungry she was! She didn't even manage to take a good bite.
"I need to get away…" She just needed the right moment to sneak away, and she found it sooner than expected.
Slowly backing away, she was on to turn around and look as small as possible when someone collided with her.
"Ah! Sorry! It was not…"
"Guhh! Look what you've done!"
Before her was a familiar figure, the same man who she and Raidyn encountered in the city, trying to brush the wine from his clothes angry.
"Lo-Lord Uzruth… please, let us…"
"Are you out of your mind, slave?!" 'Slap!'
"Ah!" The man slapped his elven slave, making her fall to the ground hard.
"This piece of fabric is worth more than all three of you! Don't dare to touch it!"
"Hey! Stop it! She just wanted to help!"
"What is this!? You again? Wait?! What a filthy beast doing in this prestigious event!?" The man scoffed with disgust, honestly confused about what Elysia is doing here.
"I let you know, I am invited. Hmph!"
"No… this must be some kind of mistake… A beast like you invited? Ridiculous! Guards, this beast somehow managed to sneak in!"
"But it is true, Lord Urzuth." The elven ambassador stepped forward, notifying the man about the truth of this statement. "Lady Elysia and Lady Raidyn were invited by the Emperor himself."
"Ridiculous…" Scoffed Urzuth. "I refuse to believe this."
"Believe what you want. I don't care." Muttered Elysia while sipping her drink, even turning her gaze away with a disgust-filled look. Unlike last time, she tried not to play on the man's hand.
"You have the nerve… cur! Not only you and your vagabond friend attacked me in broad daylight, now you even manipulate and scheme to be invited to this prestigious event! How dare you!?"
"It was you who started it all, cowardly trying to behead me."
...
As the prattle went on, a little bit farther away, the Emperor conversed with the guests, always offering his charismatic, friendly side, not one crack on his perfect picture visible.
Jircniv usually enjoyed parties like this.
The gathering of many "Important" people comes with the opportunity to build connections, weed out and humiliate competition, and meet old friends - a thing he mostly lacked thanks to his position and name.
Yet, now he can't help but feel annoyed. Until now, he had no opportunity to approach that mysterious adamantine-ranked team he invited.
Of course, he could simply walk to them and start to converse. Who could stop him, after all? He was the Emperor of this splendorous Empire! Also, with Baziwood and Nimble on his side, the chances someone can block his way was all but nil.
"And because of this exact reason, I can't do it freely."
It was the sad truth, but this was the exact reason he can't just walk up to someone and start to converse with them — especially not to adventurers, be they adamantine rank or not.
In a sense, he was the slave of his own position, and the bureaucracy surrounding him put a shackle on his opportunities.
Even bearing the nickname "Bloody Emperor"... even weeding out and executing many nobles and replacing many incompetent people with their competent counterparts, his position still tied his hands to act as free as he wished.
He needed a good reason to tear himself away from these bootlickers and try to recruit the two for his Empire. Yet, until now, he found no such openings. He was stuck with this group of people for fifteen minutes.
"Hmm…" Suddenly, some noise hit his ears, making him turn away from his current conversation partner.
"What is this?"
"Probably a few nobles have a quarrel with each other, don't even bother with them, your imperial majesty." Theorized Baziwood, leaning closer and whispering in his ear.
"Should I silence them?" Offred Nimble humbly and coldly, placing his hand on the pommel of his sword.
"No… rather than that, I am curious, let's check it out." It was his chance to get away from this boring bunch.
As a good Emperor, giving attention to the nobles and their problems assured them about his care.
The common people loving and supporting him was already good, but winning the favor of nobles was even better — even after weeding out many corrupt nobles, a little assurance he did it for the good of the nation and not just out of some mood swing never hurt.
Little things like this separated a good leader from a bad, separating an Emperor who left a lasting Empire from a ruler who became a footnote, a bad memory after their death.
...
And now, as we returned to the current scene, a lesser amount of crowd already surrounded the two sides, Elysia and Erya basically baring teeth at each other.
"What is this ruckus?" Baziwood howled, stopping everyone on their track. The people froze right away, hearing his voice and seeing his towering form. "You have the nerve to disturb the celebration of the founding day!? Interrupting even his Imperial Majesty!?"
"Make way! His Imperial Majesty is approaching!"
The crowd gasped hearing the Emperor's approach, immediately parting before the two Imperial Knights' imposing presence. Behind them, Jircniv and his partner for the night walked.
"Hmm, may I know what the problem is?" The Emperor asked friendly, inspecting the scene with seemingly great interest.
"This beast insulted me, Your Imperial Majesty! She sneaked in uninvited! Worse! She challenged my honor as a noble! I demand satisfaction!"
"Haah! Look who is speaking, Pick-a-quarrel-san!" Elysia fired back, venom dripping from her words as she started to lose her patience.
"Now, now… please calm down. Please elaborate further, so we can solve the issue as civilized people do. We are no barbarians, after all."
Nodding, both sides told their version of the tale, and Jircniv patiently listened to their every word. Not surprisingly, neither of them interrupted each other, knowing well the consequences of doing so before the Emperor.
"Ah! I see, I see…" Jircniv hummed, considering the situation, inspecting both sides. "A question of honor is indeed a serious matter. Best to settle in a duel."
"But… your majesty!" The nobles gasped all around. "In the founding gala?"
"I see no reason why not. The founders of the Empire also earned their land through the mettle of their blades and sheer will. What better to celebrate their hard-earned nation than an honorable duel between two sides in a feud?"
Whispers echoed in the grand room, considering what the Emperor announced.
"Please, excuse me, Your Imperial Majesty, but where? This is not a place fit for a fight." Added one of the nobles nearby.
"Why not? If you consider it, the whole world is a battlefield. Be it politics, life, work or struggle for your survival, you fight a battle everywhere. It is no different if we conduct a duel of honor here than outside."
"Ah! So mindful of you, Your Imperial Majesty, I never thought it that way." Bootlickers, they have their use, but Jircniv rather disliked such dishonest people.
"In that case, it is settled. If both of you agree, you can start your duel here and now. We will provide weapons and armor…" The Emperor snapped his fingers, and many servants and guards jumped into action. Preparing a makeshift "theatre" for the fighting sides, bringing forth different armors and weapons.
"Show us, a great show. To make it worth it for you. Whoever wins the match will earn a grand prize provided by the treasury."
"Hmm, splendid idea, your Imperial Majesty." Erya grinned and bowed his head. "May I also add another request?"
"Of course, go forward. As one of the challengers, you have the right to do."
"The winner can ask anything from the loser." He pointed at Elysia specifically. "Their life. All their possessions. Their titles. Anything. They need to oblige."
"Hmm, very interesting idea." Hummed Jircniv, seeing the fantasy in this all-or-nothing type of bet. "If the challenged agrees. I have nothing against it." He finally turned his attention to the girl.
Elysia hesitated for a long time, considering her options.
"Well, I understand. After all, people like her can only use their brutes to beat honorable nobles like me."
Erya's insult and cocky grin pushed Elysia through the threshold.
She simply had enough! She would make him eat his words even if she had to break her legs on his backside.
"So be it. Just don't complain when I beat your ass."
"In that case, you accepted my challenge. Just don't regret it, little fox." Fired back Erya without hesitation.
...
"They really want to duel here?" Zanack asked, intrigued. "Lord Jircniv really is extraordinary."
"…" Raidyn's eyes ticked in annoyance, watching the guards who started to clear the area for the fight.
"More so… that stupid buffoon agreed to do anything if she loses!?" That's it! She needs to do something, or her companion might end up as the slave of that man.
"How unexpected…" Mumbled Zanach, puffing out some hot air from his nostrils. "But the Emperor was always an eccentric man. I should have expected this. Something interesting always happens around him."
"You know how it goes, Lord Zanach… nobody expects the Spanish inquisition." Quipped Raidyn, half-amused, trying to calm her nerves by shooting a few bad jokes.
"What is "Spanish"? Please forgive me. I am not familiar with the term." Zanach glanced at Esdeath while still keeping his attention on the happenings.
"Just a nation where I came from. They were infamous for the brutality of their inquisition."
"Ah! I see. The inquisition is indeed a barbaric custom. This "Spanish" must be really a zealous country — almost like the Theocracy."
"Sure…" Raidyn snorted, somewhat tired, returning her gaze to Elysia. "But to cause trouble? Just what is Elysia thinking?" The player bit her lower lip concerned.
"It is unfortunate, but the ability to choose our partners and circumstances is often taken away from us by others."
"Hmm, true. If you excuse me, my Lord, I need to speak with my partner."
"Sure…" Nodded Zanach, awaiting where all of this will lead. "Go ahead."
…
Elysia started to prepare for the match. Around her, the elven diplomat and several more figures gathered.
"Lady Elysia, are you sure you want to do this? You can just simply apologize and…"
"No! I had to do this! I had enough from that prick! If I allow him to pick on me over and over again, it will never end! More so, his ego will be inflated even bigger — if it is even possible seeing how big his head already is. Someone finally needs to spank his ass!"
"Hmm, indeed, young people need to be put in their places." Vaydark stepped forward, humming while agreeing.
"You too? Master Vaydark? In situations like this, a Council Member like you should deter Lady Elysia from doing it. Our relationship with the Slane Theocracy and the Empire is strained enough as it is! We need no…"
"We're already at war with the Theocracy, aren't we?" Vaydark gave a nasty look at the man in the priestly garbs — who stared back at him just as reproachful through the crowd of people.
This figure was quite high ranked if one can categorize the ranks of priests by looking at what they wore. A cardinal one may categorize him, sticking out amongst the crowd of people like a candle in the darkness, bearing the seven-branch menorah, which was the symbol of the Slane Theocracy.
"As for the Empire…" The elderly wizard turned back his gaze to the people before him, further ignoring the glare of the wrinkly man.
"Lady Elysia is not officially part of the Elven Kingdom. Her actions are her own. This means we don't suffer any negative repercussions even if she fights. Besides, the Emperor himself baptized this match, which makes it official."
"Fair point, but I still don't like it." Lord Ulrond shook his head with a bitter expression.
All he could think about is how much paperwork this will generate for him and how much political mess this will cause.
"Elysia!"
"Here she comes…" The kitsune's ears flattened instantly, offering a bitter expression.
"What are you doing? We are not here to cause trouble. Even if not that… just what do you think about agreeing on such terms!?"
"It was that prick's fault!" She pointed at her opponent on the other end of the ring — a man who already donned his armor and prepared.
"That guy again?" Esdeath recognized him instantly.
"Yup."
"Haah! Why is it happening?" Esdeath shook her head while facepalming. "And when I hoped we could just survive this night and go on with the mission without a problem."
"I am afraid it is too late for that, Lady Raidyn." Chuckled Vaydark low, caressing his freshly shaven face.
"Ah! Vaydark-dono! I don't even recognize you for a moment. I thought you were with that Fluder figure, preparing some ritual."
"Ah! Yes, we are almost done with that. We just need to wait for the catalyst to exert their effects on the ingredients properly. Then we can finish the ritual. It will take a day or two…"
"And don't you need to… you know, watch the stuff not to the reaction go out of control accidentally?"
"Ah! What a pleasant surprise! Are you familiar with how magical catalysts and rituals work, Lady Raidyn?"
"Well… somewhat…" No, she was not. She just learned basic chemistry.
A reaction with a catalyst can go really bad if you add too much stuff and do not monitor the process.
"But yes, your concern is understandable. But fret not, though. We prepared the necessary counter measurements. Setting up detectors to warn us if the reaction goes unplanned ways. My friend is also near, monitoring the process. He told me to have some fresh air, even attend this Gala — knowing my preference in such gatherings. He will warn me if things go unplanned."
"I see now…" Raidyn turned back to Elysia, her expression softening.
"Are you sure you want to do this? You know, I can take care of him, like last time. Who knows what he will ask if he defeats you."
"I don't need your pestering!" Frowned the girl. "I can take care of myself. Thank you very much. Or you don't trust me?"
"Hmm…" Raidyn glanced at the guy, then back at the girl, leaning closer and whispering.
"He is higher level than you. Also having more experience in…"
"You don't believe in me, don't you?" Elysia squinted her eyes, angry.
"It is not like that. It is just… guh! How should I say this? This is not a fairy tale! You will not win just because you want to. You need to calculate the difference between you and him. Skill, experience, gear…" She listed just the most basic elements as an experienced PVP/PKK player.
"You gave me items, didn't you? Won't those be enough to bridge the difference?"
Esdeath glanced once more at the man, who scoffed in her direction with disgust, then back to Elysia.
"Maybe… I am not sure. According to Brain-kun, he is pretty skilled. No matter how easily I took care of him on the street, you shouldn't underestimate him."
"Yeah… we all know you are a monster. I still have nightmares about how brutally you took care of that demon."
"Don't even mention it. That thing was just as disgusting inside as bad it smells. Even after a week, I still felt its stench inside my armor. Feeling my hair all sticky…"
"Ufufuf… either way. I better prepare. I ask you again, do not interfere. I need to win this alone if I want to grow."
"Serve yourself. Just don't blame me if you become his slave, and you need to do all kinds of weird, kinky sexual play… Either way, if he tries anything nasty, I will put his head in his ass."
"That's… hard to imagine."
"Imagine it like a weird inverted snake that uses his tail to eat his head, just with arms and armor."
"Still weird…" Elysia shrugged, going on her way to prepare for the match. Equipping the plain-looking leather armor and two runed daggers — daggers Raidyn lent her after returning to Nazarick.
These items fit Elysia's level perfectly.
Albeit, they were just high and mid-class items Esdeath found lying around in her vault — items she either forgot to sell, discard or dismantle for raw material — they were higher quality than what Elysia's opponent wore.
It was evident, even the lowest quality of YGGDRASIL items way surpassed anything these people could produce — albeit that what Raidyn concluded based on what she saw while walking around in the Kingdom and Arwintar in her short stay.
"Many say the Empire produces and offers magic items that are better in quality than the Kingdom. But all I saw until now is crap."
"Both sides prepared?" Asked Baziwood who oversaw the fairness of the match?
"Yes…"
"Of course…" Unsheathed his sword Erya, raising the long blade before himself.
"Follow the rules as custom dictates. Don't bring shame on his Imperial Majesty and yourself. The match ends if one of the sides is disabled or forfeits the match. Are you ready? Fight!"
As Baziwood stepped away from the middle of the ring, the match started.
How will it end? What surprises will await the participants of the night? Read further and find out!
A/N:
This is it!
After a loong, loong wait, a new chapter!
I hope it worth the wait for you! :P
As usual, work, games, life, and the lack of muse demanded their tools.
(And let's not speak about the heat… it really takes away the drive to do anything XD)
This is the first part of a double release to make up for the lost time, hope it worth the wait :P
(the second part is already typed, and will be longer, waiting for my last checking and the proofreaders)
In the next chapter:
The fierce duel between the beast and the swordsman.
Chaos during the gala?
Emperor in danger?
Will the adventure continue?
Read forth and find out!
Until then!
Stay safe! Sail safely! Be safe! Stay away from Corona-chan!
Good day! Good night! Good morning!
RnR!
Send a PM if you have further questions!
Until next time!
(Also, I put up a new vote poll in my profile. Please vote if you can… THANKS!)