"I think I drank a bit too much last night." Kyoko put a hand to cover her mouth, leaving it aside that she doesn't have one at the moment.
"...No... I don't think a bit even began to cover it..."
"Can you blame me though? The wine was great! It's unlike anything I've ever taste! And don't get me started on Kabuto's food..."
"last night banquet was indeed a bountiful one wasn't it. Though some of the food looked... unique..."
"Oh, you're just being a wuss. It tasted great by the way! You should really stop thinking too much about it. But it's okay since it's kind of your thing I guess?"
"That's right, charging in without a second thought is much more of your forte and not mine after all."
"Oi why are you so smug when saying that!? If it wasn't for me god knows that you'd figure out how to morph between account!"
"It's pretty easy really." Momonga then snapped his fingers, and in a blink of light he morphed from a skeletal caster into a handsome man dressed in old french military uniform.
In his wife's case there is little difference between her human account and her great spirit one, the sole difference being the account's race and nothing else. This was obviously because she fancy the spear and shield wielding balanced build (which is really surprising considering her feral play-style).
But Momonga and Momon couldn't have been more different, in fact the two shared absolutely nothing in common. Momon class was that of a marksman, and it wasn't even a traditional one but a super-long range with extreme firepower one that utilizes magic cannons as their primary firearm.
He actually based his Avatar's appearance on a character from a certain mobile game that he voiced, him receiving the gig thanks to Bukubukuchagama's connection.
"See? Wasn't even that hard." He then returned to his overlord form almost immediately to add further emphasis.
Although their human form provide them with the means to indulge their mortal needs they felt much more comfortable 'wearing' their inhuman account by default, with that said they will still switch every now and then for activities such as sleeping or eating.
Kyoko folded her arm and turned her head in denial. "I'm still the ONE who figured it out mind you!"
Momonga only chuckled much to her continued frustration.
Almost an entire week have passed and surprisingly or unsurprisingly, they have entered a cycle of monotonous and humdrum activities. There was only so much to do even with this outlandish situation they are in.
By the third day most of them already had 'how this world works' figured out almost completely, and while Torihiki and the others opted for further research on 'the new game mechanics' that course of action doesn't really sit well with the both of them.
It was during their extended break that the grand idea.
'Instead of standing around all day doing nothing, why don't we spent our times with the kids and teach them some stuff?'
Thus Nazarick academy was opened (he still thinks the name is super lame), and all three of their children was more than eager to be taught by their parents. Something about receiving the knowledge of a supreme being they said.
Momonga was in charge of PvP tactics as well as group battle, while Kyoko happily took on the role of helping them apply their knowledge to 'practical use'. It was a rotary system where they take turns teaching one of their heir at a time, as for the reason why they aren't teaching right now.
"I still don't get the point of a surprise test? Is it even necessary?"
"It's important that they are able to adapt to unexpected development. If they grew too comfortable with schedule and such we'll end up dulling their reflexes. Dealing with pressure is an important skill in life you know."
"Okay-okay I get it! I just hope Minerva won't be to stressed about it."
"What did I told you about playing favourite?"
"OKAY FINE! I'll try and spent less time with her and more with the boys tomorrow!"
It was painfully apparent that the eldest sister was the one closest to his wife heart. While Momonga fully understood how adorable and love-able Minerva is staying neutral is another important quality that a parent must have, a fact he learned from his co-workers with more than one spawn.
With that out of the way the two resumed their current activity of distraction.
"Figured that thing out yet?"
"Not really, but I think I get the gist."
Kyoko reached out to the mirror and swiped his hand right. The mirror's image changed.
This was a Mirror of Remote Viewing.
A magic item used to display an image of a specific region. It was a very useful item for player-killers, or player-killer-killers. However, there were low-level spells which occluded information-gathering spells that could hide people from the mirror's eyes. In addition, it was easy for users to be counterattacked by offensive barriers, so it was an average item at best.
However, for the present circumstances, an item which could show the outside world was a very useful item indeed.
The couple enjoyed the movie-like quality of the grass within the mirror as the image changed.
"Thank god I don't have to stare at grass anymore." Kyoko blurted while waving her hand, it was pretty embarrassing that it took her this long to figure out how to use the mirror properly.
"Have you find any intelligent life-forms?"
"No... Just trees and surprise, more grass."
She repeated the same swiping gestures over and over again, but all the images she got were the same: plains.
"It's no use. Let's just check on the kids and see how they're doing."
"You do realize our presence will only spook them more right? It's bad enough that Laufeyson almost pass out from the sheer shock of a 'surprise test'."
"I guess... That boy really need to learn to chill."
"Maybe you should be the one to teach him that." Momonga suggested.
"That doesn't sound half-bad. Maybe I'll do that on our next session."
"Umu."
With her mood now slightly elevated Kyoko continued to scrying through the mirror while her husband spectates. The great spirit casually waved her hand with a vacant expression, and their field of vision suddenly expanded.
"I totally meant to do that!" she exclaimed.
"Yes, of course." Knowing her well enough Momonga simply played along, and to his relief his act increased his wife's tenor even more.
Kyoko smiled in satisfaction, and began looking for a populated area.
Finally, an image of something like a village appeared on the mirror.
It was located roughly ten kilometers south of Nazarick. There was a forest nearby, and wheat fields surrounded the city. It appeared to be a rustic farming village. By the looks of things, the village itself was not very developed.
As She zoomed in on the village, she felt that something was amiss.
"...Are they holding a festival?"
People were running in and out of their houses this early in the morning. They looked panicked.
"No, that is not a festival."
Momonga darkly stated. Although he has no skin at the moment Kyoko know her husband well enough to tell that he is displeased.
She instantly understand why after enlarging the image.
Fully armored knights were swinging their longswords at the villagers, who were dressed in rough clothes.
It was a massacre.
A villager fell with every swing of a knight's sword. The villagers could not resist them, and could only run away. The knights pursued and killed the fleeing villagers. There were horses eating the grain in the field. Those horses must have belonged to the knights.
"Tch." Kyoko clicked her tongue at the one sided slaughter. Sure she would kill those weaker than her but that was only because they attack first, despite her truculent bearings she wasn't someone who would kill for no reason (picking fights and antagonizing others aside).
"What should we do?" Momonga asked her.
"...Simply letting them be would be the logical course of action." She stated in a matter of fact tone devoid of any feelings.
"Undoubtedly so."
In truth Momonga was taken aback by how he could make such a heartless decision. A cruel slaughter was occurring before his eyes, but the only thing he could think of was the good of Nazarick. The fact that Kyoko hasn't charge in means that the same probably goes for her.
Neither of them fell pity, anger, or worry, basic human emotions anyone should have. It felt like he was watching a TV show about animals and insects, where the strong ate the weak.
There was no merit in saving them that's for sure, and by interfering they may risk earning the ire of whoever it is that conducted this merciless act in the first place. Although they both are level 100 this world's commoners might well be level 100 as well. Therefore, they could not tread blindly into this unknown world.
Charging in out of goodwill is simply idiotic, so was the analytical conclusion that they reached.
"But you still want to do something don't you?"
"You know me so well. I'm not one to stay still if I can do something. Besides, we haven't test our fighting strength in this world eventually."
The situation was doubtlessly a severe one, and in spite of that she still wishes to dive right in into the unknown.
'That's just like her, and one of the reason I fall head over hell for her' Momonga thought.
"If Touch Me was here his jaw would hit the ground."
"Too bad he isn't. I would totally pay to see that."
"I'll inform Sebas that we're leaving, hopefully this won't take long."
"We should also take Albedo with us in case things went south."
"Umu. I'll tell Sebas to fetch her while he's at it." Momonga then stood up and went for the door, Sebas was still probably standing outside guarding the door like a statue.
While waiting Kyoko waved her hand again, showing a scene from another part of the village. It seemed like two knights were trying to pull a violently struggling villager off another knight. The man was pulled away, his arms were held, and he was rendered motionless where he stood. Before Kyoko's eyes, the man was stabbed with a sword. The blade entered his body and exited from the other side of him. It should have been a fatal blow, but the longsword did not stop. One, two, three strikes — the knight seemed to be taking out his anger on the villager as he hacked at the man's body.
In the end, the knight kicked away the villager, who collapsed to the ground while spurting his blood into the air.
—The villager looked straight at Her. No, this might have just been a coincidence.
It was definitely a coincidence.
There was no way for anyone to detect the mirror's surveillance apart from anti-divination spells. Frothy blood leaked from the villager's mouth as he tried to open his mouth. His eyes were unfocused, and Kyoko could not tell where he was looking. Even so, with what may have been his dying breaths, he gasped his last words:
—Please save my daughter—
She nodded. "I will. You can rest easy."
He couldn't have possibly heard her comforting words and she knows that, the gesture was nothing more than a futile act of sympathy originating from a parent to another.
"I'll protect her..." She mumbled in a low voice.
With new objective in mind she began to search for any female, finding a pair of girls, possibly sisters, fleeing from two knights. Despite their best effort however the older sister was slashed in the back.
"Albedo is on her way, but I suggest that we move now to prevent further casualty." Momonga said as he re-entered the room.
"Yosh! Let's go!" Kyoko promptly stood up from her chair. Emanating bright light, her revealing clothing was suddenly replaced by an ornate set of golden armor. A giant spear appeared on her right hand while a shield came into existence on her right.
During these seven days Kyoko had figured out how to change equipment as fast as possible, a great discovery for weapons reliant class such as her own.
Momonga nodded. Since he was a Magic reliant class he was equipped with all sorts of arcane enchantment items at all time, for him there was no need to change items before battle.
Now all set Momonga swiftly incanted the spell.
"[Gate]."
It had no limits on distance and a 0% chance of teleport mishaps.
The spell Momonga used was the most accurate and potent of such spells in YGGDRASIL.
The scene before them changed in an instant.
XxX
Voidwalker77 Presents
Staying Behind
Chapter IV: Leisurely Stroll
XxX
Enri Emmot was not a devout. Not because she believes that gods doesn't exist but simply because there was no time to, there is always something to do that kept her busy all day in this village. Leaving little room for other activities like prayers and such.
Though perhaps she simply never paid attention to such thing, although such is natural for a simple villager like herself. Was the predicament that befall her home a punishment issued by the gods for her doing so?
She don't know, but she prays.
'Please-please. At least save my little sister...'
Enri believed that this would be her last thought, she couldn't run due to her wounds and was outnumbered two to one. Perhaps asking that her sister would at least die a painless death will be better.
Still she prays, despite the absolute impossibility, that someone would come to rescue her little sister.
She awaits for the second strike that will relieve her of the pain, all the while holding on to the unfeasible hope that her sister will survive.
The awaited kill-blow never came.
Enri braved herself to raise her head and see what is going on, and was behold a sight beyond the wildest of her dream.
Standing in front of her, two beings. One was an undead, dressed in a black robe and a golden staff. While the other an angel with a mask, armed with a spear and a shield.
Could it be? Perhaps the angel is here to rescue Enri and her sister? But what about the undead? Maybe they are the one in charge of ferrying her to the afterlife, the angel to heaven and the undead to hell.
If so where will she be going?
While wild thoughts ran inside the wounded girl's head Momonga and Kyoko stared at their adversary, two knights in full armor and armed with a sword. To his relief both of them were rendered immobile just by their presence alone, maybe they were stronger than they thought.
Momonga reached out an empty hand and cast his spell.
"[Grasp Heart]."
This spell was one that crushed a foe's heart, and among the ten tiers of spells, it was an instant death spell of the 9th tier. Many of the necromantic spells which Momonga was adept with possessed instant death properties, and this was one of them.
Momonga had chosen to open with this spell because even if it was resisted, the spell would still temporarily stun his opponent.
If the spell had been resisted, his plan was to take the two girls and jump back into the still open [Gate]. He had already planned his route of retreat since he was not sure what his opponents could do.
However, it would seem those preparations would not be necessary.
A feeling of something soft crushing beneath Momonga's fingers travelled up his arm, and the knight collapsed silently to the ground.
Momonga looked down upon the fallen knight.
It would seem that even killing someone did not stir any emotions within him.
There was no guilt, fear or confusion in his heart, which was like the surface of a calm lake. Why was it like this?
"I see… so it's not just my body, but my mind that's no longer human."
"Now you're just being dramatic." Kyoko chided. "Take care of those two, I'll handle the other one."
The other knight, clearly scared for his life after his ally's demise, turned around with a scream and made a run for it.
"Heh~ so you're brave enough to pick on girls but not someone who can fight back huh?" The displeasure on her voice couldn't be more apparent.
With her speed she easily caught up with the escaping knight. One swing was all it took, he didn't even know what hit him as he was bisected into two.
Finished, she spun her spear to shook of the blood. Kyoko stared down at the man she had just cut down, looking at the bisected corpse and the splattered blood. she felt neither sympathy nor fear, only the slight surprise that the man died with a single strike.
"Huh.. I didn't know it'd be that easy. Just a flick of the wrist." She casually stated out loud, strolling back casually towards Momonga.
"And here I had hope to test lower tier spell. You really have zero restraint don't you?"
"Oh shut it! There were two of them so we got one each! Besides these guys are super weak, so it probably would have worked anyway."
She has a point, if that person dies from her non enhanced attack then his un-boosted magic would bring the same result.
"Just don't lower your guard. It'd be stupid if we die because of carelessness."
"Yeah-yeah whatever."
Momonga sighed, there was just no winning with this woman.
"Never-mind, I want to try something."
Momonga activated one of his skills.
"—[Create Mid-Tier Undead, Death Knight]."
This was one of Momonga's skills, which could create various undead. The Death Knight in question was Momonga's favorite undead monster, which he used as a meat shield.
It was roughly level 35, but although its attack power was only comparable to a level 25 monster, its defensive power was very good, equivalent to a level 40 monster. That said, monsters of that level were useless to Momonga for the most part.
However, the Death Knight had two very important skills.
One of them was the ability to draw away enemy attacks. The other was that just once, they could survive any attack with 1 HP. Momonga liked using Death Knights as shields because of these two skills.
This time round, he was also looking forward to using the Death Knight in a similar way.
In YGGDRASIL, when he used his skills to create undead, they would appear out of the sky in their summoner's vicinity. However, things seemed different in this world.
A cloud of black fog appeared. The cloud headed straight for the body of the knight whose heart had been crushed and then enveloped it.
The mist slowly expanded, and melded with the knight's body. After that, the knight wobbled before slowly rising to its feet like a zombie.
"Eeeeek!"
They both heard the shrieks from the sisters, but he had no time to worry about them. After all, he was quite surprised at the sight before his eyes.
With a wet, dripping sound, several rills of black ichor oozed out from between the gaps in the knight's helmet. It must have come from the knight's mouth.
The black fluid flowed out without end, until it covered the knight's entire body. It looked like a human being that had been swallowed by a slime. Completely surrounded by the black liquid, the knight's body began to twist and change.
After several seconds, the black liquid fell off the body of what was now a Death Knight.
It was now 2.3 meters tall, and its body was correspondingly bulkier. It no longer resembled a human being, but a wild beast. In its left hand it held a large shield that covered three-quarters of its body — a tower shield, and in its right hand it held a wavy-bladed flamberge. This 130cm-long weapon was intended to be held with both hands, but the massive Death Knight could easily wield it with one hand. A dreadful red-black aura covered the flamberge's blade, which pulsed like a heart.
Its massive body was sheathed in a suit of full plate armor made from some black armor, and it was covered in red tracery that resembled blood vessels. The armor was also covered in spikes as far as anyone could see, and it looked like a man-shaped incarnation of brutality. Demonic horns sprang from its head, and one could see its rotted face underneath them. Twin points of hateful, murderous light shone in the eye sockets of its ghastly visage.
Its tattered black cape blowing in the wind, the Death Knight awaited Momonga's orders. The way it carried itself was truly deserving of the name "Death Knight"
"I didn't know you need a corpse to do that?" Kyoko pointed out.
"Neither did I, but beside the difference in summoning everything else is the same."
"He~. Try ordering it then, see if it's like the other NPCs."
"Umu."
Much like he had with the Primal Fire Elemental and Moonlight Wolves he had summoned, Momonga used the mental bond with his summoned monster and pointed to the corpse of the knight who Kyoko split into two.
"Exterminate all the knights who are attacking this village."
"OOOOOOOAAAAHHHHHHH!" it roared.
So mighty was its cry that it shook the air, and it was so filled with bloodlust that everyone who heard it broke out in goosebumps.
The Death Knight ran, fast as lightning. The way it charged forward without hesitation was like a hunting hound that had scented its quarry. The undead hatred for the living made it sensitive to the prey that it would soon slaughter.
As the Death Knight's silhouette shrank into the distance, Momonga was keenly aware of a difference between this new world and YGGDRASIL.
That was "independence".
Originally, the Death Knight should have stayed by its summoner's side to await his orders and attack any enemies which approached. Yet, it had disregarded that order and launched an attack of its own accord.
"It doesn't have a mind of its own, but it obviously can follow simple instructions."
"Are you sure? A weaker Elder-Lich could speak and think, why couldn't this one?"
"Difference in lore perhaps. It does says that Elder-Lich is a revived person with conscience, while death knight are concentration of fallen soldiers who wishes to take revenge on the living."
"Ah~ so it's like that. This lore stuff is more important than I thought."
"There's nothing wrong with reading flavour text every once in a while you know." Momonga suggested in a scolding fashion.
"Eh~? But the lines are too long and boring! I'd rather spar with the kids or the guardians!"
"If Nii-san heard that he'd be hurt."
"So what? He works in a bookstore, I'm sure he's used to it."
"Even so..."
Before he can push on a humanoid shape came through the still-open Gate. At the same time, the Gate's duration ended, and it slowly disappeared.
A person clad in a suit of full-body black plate armor stood before Momonga.
That suit of armor looked like a demon. It was covered in spikes and did not expose the slightest bit of flesh. Its clawed gauntlets grasped a black kite shield in one hand and a bardiche that radiated a sickly green glow in the other. A blood-red cape blew in the wind, while the doublet beneath was also the carmine of fresh blood.
"The preparations took some time. I apologize for my late arrival," Albedo's melodic voice spoke from beneath the horned helmet.
Albedo's levels were in the defense-focused Dark Knight class. As a result, among the three level 100 warriors of Nazarick — Sebas, Cocytus and Albedo — Albedo possessed the greatest defensive ability.
In other words, she was the strongest shield in Nazarick.
"Your timing was nothing less than perfect really. We were just about to start arguing, thanks for stopping that!" Kyoko chirped, if she were to debate with her husband then it would've gone on for another hour or two.
"Thank you. Then… how shall we dispose of these inferior lifeforms? If you do not wish to stain his hands with their blood, I will gladly eliminate them on your behalf, Momonga-sama, Kyoko-sama."
Her choice of words unsettle the both of them.
"...What exactly did Sebas tell you?" Momonga asked.
Albedo did not respond.
"You didn't pay attention did you?" Kyoko inquired in a scolding tone.
"...My deepest apology..."
"Sheesh! I know that you're excited about your first task! But ignoring the given instruction is the worst blunder of all!" This time she angrily scolded, destroying Albedo's psyche in an instant.
"Guh!... I see... truly I have commit the greatest of sins. Then allow me to pay with my worthless life!" Albedo shouted while bringing her bardiche towards her neck.
"There is no need!" Momonga promptly stopped her. "We are here to stop the bloodshed not cause it!" To his relief the demoness heed his command.
"Albedo, while you did made a mistake harming yourself is no reimbursement. You should instead learn from this one mishap and strife not to repeat it in the future."
"Hah~ Guess even in another word I'm still an office lady, sorry about my coarse language, Albedo."
"No! Truly I have undermine both of your kindness! Not only do you forgive me but you also pushes me when I needed! Kyoko-sama, Momonga-sama! I swear that this servant will do everything in her power to become more useful!"
The two had grown used to their 'servant's' antics and was no longer fazed by this sort of outburst.
"Umu~ I'm looking forward to that." Momonga happily approved.
"Just don't repeat it in the future alright? I'd rather not deal with incompetent underling here." Although she still
"YES!"
"Now then... my intention is to save this village. Our enemies are the knights in armor, like that corpse over there."
Albedo nodded in understanding, and he turned his eyes elsewhere.
"Then…" Momonga set his gaze on the two girls he and Kyoko had saved.
"Ah that's right, I almost forgot about those two."
Ignoring her wound and condition almost completely they approached the two. The stench of ammonia filled the surrounding air, and although they know where did it came from they ignored it too.
'Eh... Just how am I suppose to start?' In truth Momonga was at an complete loss on what he was supposed to do. 'I guess I'll start with offering them goodwill'.
"...You seem to be hurt." He started.
"No shit sherlock. Poor girl was stabbed in the back!" Kyoko barked, angry at his 'keen observation'.
"...I know that. But If I say that out loud it'll only end up startling them you know?"
"Guh! O-of course I know that! I-I'm just being considerate in case you were really being stupid!"
"Yes... Of course..."
"What's with that tone!? You're totally thinking of something rude aren't you!?"
"No-no... You're just being self conscious..."
"Self conscious my ass! I've been married to you long enough to know what you're thinking!"
"Then why bothering asking in the first place?"
"Why you...!"
"Eto... Momonga-sama, Kyoko-sama." Albedo once more interjected, again saving them of their precious time. "Please forgive my meddling, but I do believe that the girl you were talking about just a moment ago is dying."
"Ah..." The couple blurted in unison, turning their head to the village girl who true to the demoness's word is not long on this world.
Momonga opened his inventory and withdrew a backpack from it. Although it was called an Infinite Backpack, it could only hold up to 500 kilos of items.
YGGDRASIL players commonly put their immediate-use items into this bag, because the items within the bag could be assigned to hotkeys in the game interface.
After digging through several of these Backpacks, he found a small phial containing a red potion.
It was a Minor Healing Potion.
This potion could restore 50 HP, and beginners in YGGDRASIL frequently used it. However, as they are now both had no need for this item at all. This was because this potion healed through positive energy.
To an undead being like Momonga, this potion was like a damaging poison. While the item lose 50% of it's effectiveness due to Kyoko being a spirit.
However, not every member in the guild was an undead, so Momonga kept some of these items just in case.
"That's a minor healing potion. Just gulp it down and you should be good as new." Kyoko elucidated.
The girl, Enri, having lost much blood and could barely think weakly nodded. Seeing her condition Momonga uncapped the bottle and offered it to her, with the last of her strength the farm girl took it.
The little sister could only watch, her eyes switching between Momonga and Kyoko rapidly. She was afraid that much anyone could tell, but none of Nazarick denizens currently present knows why.
Without even aware of the content of the drink she gulped the potion down. The effect was immediate and her lesion was mend. It was followed by the return of her mind.
"Are you alright now?" Momonga asked
She yelped at the sight of her savior, only now remembering that he was an undead.
"What's the matter." It... He, asked. And Enri found herself at lost for words.
"She's shocked at how ugly you are, obviously." Kyoko rolled her 'eyes'. Sheesh, sometimes he really can be plain dumb. "Don't worry. He's scary and ugly, that's a fact. But my husband is just a big softie at heart."
The angel's word confuse her even further, and she foolishly voiced her curiosity.
"But... He's an Undead..."
Her, seemingly rude, remark caused the gear to click within Momonga's head. Activating message he contacted Kyoko immediately.
'Kyoko it's me.'
'Yeah-yeah, I know. What do you want to talk about in a time like this?'
'I think she's afraid of me because she thinks I am an Undead. Guess there aren't many here that is intelligent.'
'Maybe so. Then you're gonna switch to your human account?'
'...No, I'll wear mask, gloves, and closes my robe so my race remained hidden. Switching account will be too much of an hassle.'
'That makes sense. Just make sure it's not a skull mask because that goes against the whole thing.'
'Will do.'
It was the exact opposite actually. Like mentioned earlier the two of them for reasons that even they themselves do not know, hence the reason Kyoko cooperatively played along.
With one problem solved it looks like their trek towards the new world won't be an uphill one.
"You..." Albedo growled. "Momonga-sama gave you a healing potion out of the kindness of his heart, but to think you would refer him as a lowly Undead… you inferior lifeforms deserve ten thousand deaths for that"
Albedo raised her bardiche in a natural way, preparing to behead them on the spot.
Kyoko quickly stepped in, and although she understood Albedo's feeling (no one gets to make fun of her husband's appearance except she herself after all) the bother they have went through to rescue her make the village girl valuable.
"Stop, Albedo. I get what you're going through, but it's not worth it."
"That's right. It is most likely that there is nothing like me in this world. Ignorance should be repaid with death, yes. But this situation is a peculiar one."
"...Understood, Momonga-sama," Albedo replied gently as she withdrew her bardiche.
However, she was still radiating murderous intent, to the point where the two girls were gritting their teeth in fear.
Sighing in relief (without lungs), the overlord decided to test his hypothesis.
"First off I have saved your life, you are aware of this are you not?"
Enri nervously nodded.
"Then, secondly. The undead you mentioned earlier, none of them are capable of speech aren't they?"
The tone he used was an imposing one, and Enri have a feeling she'd be killed if she doesn't give him the answer he wanted.
"Y-yes... Undeads are living corpse that hate the living..."
"Heh~. That's really classic, we should definitely research into that!" The great spirit suggested excitedly.
"Perhaps later. I want to check whether or not the death knight can finish the job."
"Oh right. I forgot about that."
Momonga sighed, again without lungs. He was used to putting up with his wife's ditzyness, so he knew that there was nothing else he can do but move on.
So he turned to the sisters again.
"Do you know of magic?'
"Yes, yes I do. The alchemist who comes by our village… my friend, knows how to use magic."
"...Is that so. Well, that makes things easy to explain. I am a magic caster."
Momonga then cast his spells:
"[Anti-Life Cocoon]."
"[Wall of Protection From Arrows]."
A dome of light, roughly three meters in radius, surrounded the sisters. The second spell was not visible to the naked eye, but there was a subtle change in the air. He had originally planned to use an anti-magic spell as well, but he did not know what sort of magic existed in this world, so he did not do so for the time being. If the enemy had magic casters, then that was just their bad luck.
"I have cast a defensive spell that keeps living creatures from coming near you, as well as a spell that weakens the effectiveness of shooting attacks. As long as you stay here, you should be safe. Ah, just in case, I will give you these as well."
After calmly explaining the effects of the magic to the two dumbfounded sisters, Momonga withdrew a pair of unremarkable-looking horns. Apparently, the magic did not obstruct them, since they sailed straight through the forcefield as Momonga tossed them to the sisters' side.
"These are called the Horns of the Goblin General. If you blow them, Goblins — in other words, small monsters — will appear. Order them to protect you."
In YGGDRASIL, electronic data crystals dropped from monsters could be slotted into almost any sort of item (apart from certain expendable items), in order to create just about any item a player could think of. In addition there were certain artifacts which could not be created by players and had fixed stats. These horns were examples of them.
Momonga had used the horn before, and at that time it managed to summon a Goblin Troop, 12 or so Goblins with some measure of ability. There were two Goblin Archers, one Goblin Mage, a Goblin Cleric, two Goblin Riders and their wolf mounts, as well as one Goblin Leader.
Although it was called a Goblin Troop, their numbers were few and they were very weak.
This was a trash item for Momonga. The surprise was why he had not disposed of it yet. Still, Momonga felt quite smart for being able to put this trash item to good use.
Another good point about this item was that the summoned Goblins would linger until they were killed instead of vanishing after a while. That could at least buy the girls some time.
"We should really get going, if the death knight really get destroyed I want to be there for some action!"
"Yes-yes." the husband tiredly complied to his wife's request. "We're leaving Albedo."
"As you command."
As the three head to the village however, after a few steps, a couple of voices called out to him.
"Ah… th-thank you for saving us!"
"Thank you!"
Those words stopped them on their tracks, and when the couple turned around, they saw the two girls, their eyes brimming with tears as they thanked them. Both of them smiled internally as they said:
"...Think nothing of it."
"That's right! Helping those in need is common sense!"
"And, and this may be thick-skinned of us, but, but you are the only one we can count on. Please! Please save our parents!"
Chances are they're already dead, and knowing of this fact Kyoko suddenly froze. Catching his wife's turmoil Momonga stepped in and covered for her.
"Alright. If they're still alive, I will rescue them."
The sisters' eyes went wide as they heard Momonga's words. Their faces reflected the disbelief in their hearts, but soon they came to their senses and lowered their heads in thanks.
"Th-thank you! Thank you very much! And, and, may we know…"
The girl's voice trailed off, and then she asked in a mumble:
"May we know your name...?"
"...Remember my name well. I am Ainz Ooal Gown."
XxX
"Ah~... This blows~..." Kyoko pouted. Had it not been for the fact that there were others around she would've laid on the ground and flail her arm and legs like a child.
"Do forgive this one for not understanding Kyo... I MEAN! Pallas Domina-sama!"
"No need for that Albedo. The code-names are only to be used if there are prying ears, and there is none at the moment."
"Ah yes! Forgive me Kyoko-sama..."
She had questioned her husband about the use of a fake name, and to her surprise his answer was quiet a logical one.
'If we were to meet other players our name would break their spirit or at least rattle their core enough for an opening. Ainz Ooal Gown is a pretty famous guild after all...'
She wanted to argue that such mind games were not needed. Fighting capability wise, with their best equipment Kyoko would be on the middle-upper tier of all YGGDRASIL tier while Momonga is somewhere in the middle-upper area.
This is because Momonga's build is that of a mage one while Kyoko's was a fighting type warrior through and through. However their battle prowess increase tenfold when it comes to fighting together.
She is proud to say that they can go toe to toe with Ainz Ooal Gown's strongest warrior Touch-Me. Together they even survived clashing against YGGDRASIL's number one player and the leader of the mercenary guild [Nature's Roar, and although the battle was halted half way she was confident that they had given [Leonheart] a run for his money.
Perhaps she would have pressed on had it not been for this debacle.
The man that she saw on the mirror of remote viewing, the one whose daughter she promised to protect, was none other than Enri's father. She was glad to be able to kept her promise but that scenario scared her.
If there's enough player who would rise against her will she have to do the same for her children?
In the end she agreed to her husband's tactic, now using her guild name as her moniker in this brave new world.
'tch.'
To be honest being called Pallas Domina leave a bitter taste on her mouth, in her human state at least, for the mention of that name reminded her of her guild mates. Of the people who cast aside and throw away their hard work as if it was nothing.
'No... I'm just being unfair...'
People can perceive things differently, and just like others seeing this game as nothing more than an escape from reality Kyoko has more than enough rights to view this world as her true home.
Saying that she was right and they are wrong would be an act of hypocrisy.
'But I still can't forgive them... Not yet at least...'
"Nevermind. What is it that you want to know?"
"Well it's just that... Your goal and Momonga-sama's goal is to save as much villager as possible was it not? Haven't we accomplished just that?"
"Uh~... Yeah we did..."
"If so then why are you so displeased? Could it be that you felt as if these inferior human you saved haven't show enough gratitude!? IF SO THEN PLEASE ALLOW THIS ONE TO...!"
"NO-NO! NOTHING LIKE THAT!" From Albedo's tone things would have probably gone horror massacre if she hadn't stopped her.
"T-then what's the matter Kyoko-sama?"
"Truthfully? I was kinda hoping for a fight."
The Death knight performed a job well done for a mid-tier undead. Killing off most of the knights and leaving only four behind by the time they got there.
Sure her objective was to prevent this small village from being wiped out from the map. But she was a fighter, and to go preparing for a fight only to be greeted by none left her disappointed.
For Albedo this was an important piece of information.
'I see. So Kyoko-sama is one of those so called warrior-types...'
Albedo might be one of Ainz Ooal Gown's top three melee fighters, but she is a lady first and foremost so unless the situation call for it she'd rather not get her hands dirty.
'Uh... And all those time I shrug off Cocytus. If only I had mingle with him more often then I would have understood Kyoko-sama further...'
While the three are considered Nazarick's best combatants all of them usually kept to themselves. Albedo would encounter Sebas every now and then but kept herself from Cocytus because of the nature of his 'allies'.
'I guess this is what I receive for turning a blind eye...' She inwardly scolded herself. 'No matter, I shall try and comfort her myself!'
"Kyoko-sama, if my discernment is correct I believe that Momonga-sama let the living knights go in order to smoke out the perpetrator behind the attack..."
"So?"
"So whoever it is behind this attack may return here to finish the job."
"And that means... I get to fight! You're really smart aren't you, Albedo!?"
Though she doesn't show it, right at this moment Albedo was performing an imaginary fist bump in the wake of her success. Who would've thought that such simple deduction could please her mistress so much?
But someone like Kyoko-sama should have already know of such things shouldn't she? Why does she bother to put up an act of ignorance?
Could it be!? She already knew this and played along in order to encourage Albedo to speak out her mind more often.
"No... It is I who should thank you Kyoko-sama. Even in moment like this you still go through your ways to assist us."
Kyoko tilted her head in confusion. "I don't really get it, but your welcome I guess?"
Albedo only smiled and nodded, completely oblivious of her mistress puzzlement. The next second Momonga returned, noticing that his wife was not sulking anymore.
"I'm back. You look pleased, did something happen?"
"Yeah, looks like I actually got a chance to let off some steam after all! Thanks to you letting some of those attacker to get away."
"Ah that. There is also a chance that they might just run away though, so don't get your hope up too much."
"Ah~. You're being a buzz-kill again, would it kill you to be positive for once."
"...I'm pretty sure positive would be hoping for the exact opposite. Also I am an Undead so I'm already dead, literally speaking."
"Tch, whatever. So? Did you get anything from your little chat?"
After disposing the rest of the attacking knights, though it was the death knight that did most of the work, Momonga left both Kyoko and Albedo to negotiate the payment with the village chief.
Though the couple really did assisted this village out of pure goodwill saying that they helped them because they can will raise suspicion, no matter the world true kindness was something that is non-existent after all.
So their cover story is as the following: They are travelers who just happened to saw the two sisters (whose memories had Momonga altered) being attacked by two knights, everything else goes exactly as everyone knows.
With that said none of them hoped for any reward in the first place, rather they used the negotiation as a means to extract information of this world from the village chief.
"Quite a lot."
"Fill me in later then. I'm not in the mood right now."
Kyoko was never a good negotiator, her position of section chief was something that she gained with sheer hard work and pure grit.
"Would it really kill you to do something that involves brain-power for a change?"
"I have you and Albedo here, so why should I. My job here is as a frontliner who charge in blindly after all."
"I don't know whether should I be pleased or disappointed of you openly admitting it..." There really is no winning against this woman.
Taking his eyes off his wife he turned towards the villagers, soon enough his sight was locked to the two sisters whom he and Kyoko had saved earlier. Their parents' bodies were among those that would be buried today.
"...So their family didn't make it..."
"...Yeah..."
The burial ceremony was held in a nearby communal graveyard. It was surrounded by a broken-down fence, and within were several circular stone slabs inscribed with people's names.
The village chief recited the verses to ease the spirits of the dead, and the words from his mouth appealed to a god that he had never heard of in YGGDRASIL. It was a prayer that the spirits of the dead would find peace.
It appeared that there were not enough hands to bury all the bodies at once, so they chose to bury some of them first. For them, burying the dead on the day they died was too hasty, but perhaps this was a normal practice for the faiths in this world.
"If you want, I can revive all of them..."
Momonga idly stroked a 30 centimeter long wand under his robe. The wand was made of ivory and capped with gold. There were runes over the grip and it radiated an aura of holiness.
It was a Wand of Resurrection.
A magic item which could return the dead to life. Of course, Momonga did not possess just one of these wands. He had enough to resurrect all the dead in the village, with room to spare.
According to the village chief, this world's magic did not have the power to raise the dead. That being the case, if he used the wand of resurrection, he would create a miracle in this village. Certainly that would boost their popularity even more.
"No... They should be content with the fact that most of them are even alive in the first place."
Kyoko may wear her heart on her sleeves but she wasn't an idiot. the chances of the villagers keeping the secret would be very low, even if she ordered them not to talk about the resurrections.
The power to conquer death was something that everyone craved. And with how out of depth they are messing with the laws of nature is most certainly not a wise a course of action.
"...Is something bothering you?"
"To be honest I don't know. When you left to tell the others we were going I watched one of the villagers getting stabbed to death."
"Those two's father..."
"Yeah. I was just about to open a gate and step in but there wasn't enough time... And the moment I knew he died I felt... Nothing..."
Spirits, according to the lore of YGGDRASIL, are souls that could not passes over to the next live due to worldly attachments. Unfinished business which resulted in strong emotions, usually regret, allows them to remain in the physical realms.
Despite her claims, Kyoko had already read her character's background. Could it be that because of her race she no longer cares for the dead? If so will this happen should any of her children or husband perishes?
For the first time in her life, Kyoko felt incredible fear overtaking her.
"...I love you..." Momonga suddenly blurted, shocking the two women.
Albedo was at lost for word at such bold display, and for a second Kyoko was the same but the great spirit recovered almost immediately.
"W-What's with you all of the sudden!?"
"See? You still care about me, and I'm an undead."
"Ah..."
"As for your status it's probably only affects your elevated feelings, it doesn't tamper with your personality or mental state in any way."
"There's no need for concern. Didn't you just say that worrying is my job?"
"...You big idiot..."
Kyoko lightly punched Momonga on the shoulder, doing her best to hid her helmet's face from him. She had a feeling that even though she doesn't have a face he could tell that she's flustered, that will lead to a situation where he can blackmail him to do things for him.
The Overlord on the other hand was simply happy that his lover have returned to her normal self. To his surprise his wife returned her weapons to her storage, and intertwine her arm with his and leaned her head on his shoulder.
Though the both of them felt nothing physically, the feelings behind her action reached his nonexistent heart.
"Ah sorry about that Albedo. Having to see us old couple flirting like that..."
"NO! ON THE CONTRARY! Seeing Momonga-sama and Kyoko-sama expressing their love for one another is nothing but heartwarming! One could only dream that their Marriage could ever be as harmonious as yours!"
"Hearing you say that... It's kind of embarrassing..." The great spirit shyly twiddled her index, she was a middle age woman after all.
"I agree. By the way Albedo, what is an eight edge Assassin doing here?"
Albedo was one thing, but bringing a monster here would make them the center of attraction, even if the burial was going on. Just then, Momonga remembered that Eight Edge Assassins were monsters that could go invisible.
"I brought him over because he wanted to pay his respects to you, Momonga-sama."
"EH! HE'S BEEN HERE DOES THAT MEAN HE SAW THE WHOLE THING!?" The great spirit shrieked in panic.
"Indeed, I was privileged to see it Kyoko-sama! How refreshed my soul is when..."
"—Enough of that. Are you part of the support troops?" Momonga addressed more calmly, only because his wife had already voiced his concern.
Should any of their fellow player learn of their sappy exchange the neither of them would hear the end of it.
"Yes. There are 400 vassals beside myself who stand ready to assault the village at any time."
"I thought we already went through with the fact that we're saving this village." The great spirit dryly muttered.
"Sebas really don't have the talent to pass message it seems." Was Momonga's off hand remark.
"My apologies Kyoko-sama! Momonga-sama! I issued the surrounding of this village prior to my arrival, shall I command the troops to retreat?"
"Since the problem have been taken care of that would be the best course of action. Who's your commander?"
"That would be Aura-sama and Mare-sama." To the couple's horror the assassin continued.
"Demiurge-sama and Shalltearsama remain in Nazarick on alert, while Cocytus-sama is supervising Nazarick's perimeter security."
"...That's overkill for a small scale operation like this..." If this keeps up Momonga was pretty sure that his jaw would fall of at some point.
"And what about the others!? Does any of them knows about this!?"
"No, Kyoko-sama. All of them are still preoccupied with their respective devices."
She let out a sigh of relief hearing that.
"Everyone but Aura and Mare are to fall back. How many of you Eight Edge Assassins are there?" The overlord ordered, also relieved that his dignity remained intact.
"There are 15 of us in total."
"Then you can stay with Aura and Mare."
After watching the Eight Edge Assassin nod in acknowledgement, the two returned their eyes back to the burial. They were about to fill in the graves, and the two girls were crying non-stop.
The sight reinforce their hearts.
They will never put their children through such a thing.
And of course they will never allow the opposite to ever happen.
XxX
"LOOK! THE SUN IS SETTING!"
"You perfectly sound like a ten year old..."
"Can you blame me! You look at that and tell me that it's not breathtaking!"
Doing as his wife commanded, not that it was the first time he does so today, he was greeted by the sight of the sun almost reaching the horizon. All of the sudden he understood the reason behind Kyoko's excitement, it really was an amazing sight.
"You're right... It's really wonderful."
"Isn't it!? Maybe if you pay more attention to your surrounding you'd be able to notice it sooner!"
"That's just low..."
Kyoko merely chuckled. "Should we get going then? Or do you want to stick around until sunset?"
The second option does sound appealing, but... "We should head back now. The children should be done with their test, and we need to update the others on what we have learned."
"Eh~. Guess I'll have to wait until tomorrow then... Oh! Maybe I can catch the sunrise while I'm at it!"
"That settles that then. Albedo."
"Understood."
"We should inform the chief of our departure first before that. It'd be rude if we disappear all of the sudden."
"Ah that's right. We'd better find him quick, I really want to see the kids."
"...Kyoko-sama, Momonga-sama, is it really necessary? Why should you two bother with such formality? Aren't you two going to far for such lowly human?"
"...Do you hate humans?"
"I detest them. Humans are weak and inferior lifeforms. They would look so pretty if I squashed them like bugs… besides that girl."
Albedo's words were as sweet as honey, yet their meaning was terribly cruel.
"Umu-umu. I kind off understand it, but don't let them hear you say that." Kyoko nodded, she didn't get to where she is today by playing nice.
"Indeed... I understand how you feel. However, I hope you can control yourself for the time being, because we have to put on a show." The husband swiftly followed.
Albedo nodded energetically. Looks like he have his work cut out for him. Understanding his subordinates was an important skill he had to master. Luckily Kyoko is naturally talented at that department, all he has to do is to follow her lead.
"I'm still kind of bummed out that I didn't get to kill much, hopefully Cranium is still up for a spar..."
Yep, this is going to take a while to sort of. With that in mind he began looking for the village chief.
They found the chief almost immediately, talking to some of the villagers. He had a stern look on his face, but it did not seem normal. Indeed, he seemed to be quite wound up.
"YES!" Kyoko silently cheered. "Looks like I get to kill again!"
Sighing at his wife's antics, though also somewhat glad because she wouldn't take her frustration on him, he approached the chief.
"...What's wrong, Chief-dono?"
The chief's face lit up, as though he had glimpsed a golden shiny wire of hope.
"Oh, Ainz-sama. It would seem there are some mounted people who look to be warriors approaching us…"
He was honestly shocked that Kyoko didn't cheer or fist bumped in the wake of that information.
"I see…"
The chief and the other nearby citizens looked at the two of them, worried expressions on their faces.
Momonga gently raised his hand as he saw this, which filled everyone with relief as he said:
"Leave it to me. Gather all of the survivors into the village chief's house right now. The chief and I will remain here."
"None of them are going to make it far, you can count on that." Kyoko cracked her knuckles for further emphasis.
A bell rang, and the villagers gathered. The Death Knight took up a position near the chief's house, while Albedo remained behind him, awaiting orders.
"Ah! And don't worry about the fee, I'm in the mood for some fighting so I'll handle this one for free!" Though her word brought relief for the chief he felt somewhat disturbed by her cheerful tone.
After a while, they finally sighted many mounted warriors along the road leading to the village. The horsemen slowly entered the square.
"Eh..." Kyoko suddenly slumped, her spear and shield lowered.
"What is it?"
"Those guys aren't here to fight. They do have fighting spirit, but it's not directed on this village."
"I see. Then whoever it is they're after is most likely the mastermind behind the attack."
"Probably."
"They aren't uniformly equipped, and each of them is outfitted differently… are they not regular troops?" Momonga mused as he observed the men and their wargear.
The knights from before had breastplates bearing the sigils of the Baharuth Empire, and they were heavily equipped, each in the same way. While these men were wearing armor as well, their gear varied from man to man. Some wore leather armor and some did not have their plate armor on, exposing the chainmail underneath.
Some of them wore helmets, while some went bareheaded. About the only thing they had in common was that they each showed their faces. All of them had swords of similar make, but apart from that, they also carried bows, javelins, maces, and other backup weapons.
One could say that they looked like hardened veterans of the battlefield. A less polite way would be to say that they were a ragtag bunch of sellswords.
The riders finally entered the square. There were around 20 of them, and while they were wary of the Death Knight, they formed up neatly before Ainz and the village chief. A man stepped forward from the rest of the force.
He seemed to be the leader of the horsemen. He looked like the fiercest and most eye-catching one of his men.
The leader's eyes rested briefly upon the village chief before lingering on the Death Knight and then he turned toward Albedo. He took a long time looking at her. However, once he satisfied himself that none of them were going to move, he did the same with Kyoko before turning his keen gaze on Momonga.
Although the man looking at him seemed to be the sort who made his living by violence, both of them remained still. A look like that could not hope to raise any ripples on the still lake of Momonga's heart, and always Kyoko was a lot more frontal with her words.
"If you want a fight then just spit it, I'll take you all on..."
He was caught off guard by the bold challenge. Momonga really hope that he wouldn't laugh the threat off, there was no way he can stop Kyoko once she's pissed off.
Luckily the leader seems to be an expert on gouging people's strength, and is very much aware of how dangerous the person in front of him is.
"(cough 2X). I must apologize for my wife's rude manner, my name is Ainz Ooal Gown and she is Pallas Domina Gown. The one behind me is Albedo and this village chief."
Momonga's intervention allowed the leader to regain his bearings, he then spoke in a grave tone.
"—I am the Warrior-Captain of the Re-Estize Kingdom, Gazef Stronoff. By order of the King, I have been visiting each of the frontier villages to exterminate knights from enemy countries who have been making trouble here."
His even baritone echoed through the village square, and there was some commotion from the chief's house behind them.
"Heh~. For a big shot you certainly doesn't dress the part." Again Kyoko voiced his thought. If he was recognized even by the people of this remote village then he really was someone of considerable power.
If so why is he and his men are poorly equipped?
The warrior, Gazef, on the other hand chuckled.
"I'm afraid I was put in a bind and was forced to go forward with what I have at the moment..."
"Ah, I see. Your superior must be quite the asshole."
Momonga was already used to his wife's cursing, though the other was caught off guard. However the warrior caption recovered quickly and chuckled.
"No. He is a good person, though your words perfectly described those who surround him..."
This time some of the men behind him laughed while the rest smiled.
'As expected she's still a natural at breaking the ice.'
"Well then, warrior captain, what is it that you want to ask us?"
"Ah, yes. Ainz Ooal..."
"Just call me Ainz, it'd be troublesome if you have to call me such a long name every time."
"Me too, just call me Pallas."
"...V-very well. Ainz-dono, Pallas-dono. Is it save to assume that the three... I mean 'four' of you were the ones who protected this village?"
"Not really, my husband's summon was the one that did most of the work, he and I only killed one man each."
"...I see... Then I must thank you for saving this village. I have no words that can adequately praise your kindness."
The air seemed to tremble.
The Warrior-Captain was a man from a privileged class of society. It was quite shocking that such a man would bow and scrape before a pair of strangers, in this world where people were so clearly divided amongst each other. From what Momonga had heard, the concept of human rights was almost nonexistent in this country — no, in this world. A few years ago, the Kingdom still sanctioned the slave trade.
One could tell Gazef's character from the way he was ready to dismount and bow to Ainz despite their difference in status.
This man was definitely the Kingdom's Warrior-Captain, so he concluded.
"...Please, do not stand on ceremony. In truth, I did this for payment, so no thanks is needed."
"Oh, a payment. Does this mean that you are an adventurer?"
"Oh? They have those here too?"
Kyoko's word puzzled not only Gazef, but also the village chief. Quickly her husband stepped in.
"To elaborate my wife and I are travelers. We are indeed adventures from where we came from, and is rather please to know that the same organization is present here."
"...Traveller, you say..."
Gazef turned his eyes toward the Death Knight. He must have smelled the faded scent of gore and death that came from it.
"...That 'person' over there, could he be the summon that your wife mentioned?"
"Indeed, he is the servant that I created."
Gazef murmured in approval, and then looked Momonga up and down with a keen gaze.
"Then… how about that mask?"
To conceal his identity of being an undead, Momonga had disguised himself with a mask and a pair of gauntlets. It was only a matter of time before someone points it out anyway.
"I wear it for reasons known only to a magic caster."
"May I remove that mask?"
"Sadly, I must refuse. It would not be good if I lost control of him." so he gestured towards the death knight.
A look of shock flashed across the faces of the chief and gasps came from the
villagers hiding within the chief's house. Perhaps he had sensed the change in
the air and seen the look on the chief's face, but Gazef nodded deeply and said:
"I see. Then, we'd best not take it off."
"Thank you, then..." Gazef subtly glanced at Kyoko, much to Momonga's ire.
"I'm wearing this helmet so I don't die when someone aims for my head, in case you haven't figure it out."
Some of the soldiers behind Gazef snickered, and the warrior captain himself smiled.
"Indeed, for a warrior keeping his guard up at all times must be their second nature." so he muttered.
"Ah, that's right. Speaking of warriors would you mind putting your weapons away to prevent triggering the villager's trauma. They might survived the massacre but the scar still lingers..."
"...It is as you say, Gown-dono. However, this sword was given to me by the King. I cannot set it down without his express permission."
"—Pallas-sama, we will be fine."
"Suit yourself then, but in turn I get to keep my weapon with me at all times, how does that sound."
Gazef could only stared at the marvelous weapon that the she-warrior carried. A spear that despite being ornate was undoubtedly a high grade armaments at the same time. With that said however, he honestly think that there won't be a difference whether he was armed or not.
The woman in front of him could still kill him without wasting a breath, that's what his honed instinct told him.
"Please forgive my wife's unreasonable request, Warrior-Captain-dono."
"No, I see the logic in her thinking, Gown-dono. If this sword was not personally awarded to me by the King, I would gladly lay it aside. Then, could we sit down and discuss the details. Also, the sky is growing dark, and we would like to rest in this village for the night…"
"I understand. Then, let us return to my home together—"
In the middle of the chief's reply, one of the horsemen ran into the square. He was panting heavily, and had an urgent report. In a high-pitched voice, the horseman said:
"Warrior-Captain! We've sighted a lot of people around the village! They've surrounded the village and they're closing in!"
Once again Momonga was surprised that Kyoko hadn't broke into a fit of cheer right at that moment.
XxX
Voidwalker77 here. Sorry for the long hiatus, I got a lot of school stuff on my plate. The good news is I just need to survive another couple of weeks and It'd be smooth sailing for the next month, hopefully I'd be able to wrap up Volume 1 before the end of May.
As always I thank all of you for your unending support, it means a lot to me.
CIAO!