CHAPTER 16-AFTERMATHS & PRELUDES
An audible yawn echoed as Hilma Cygnaeus lazily rolled onto her back in an average-sized twin bed, stretching like a contented cat in fresh cotton sheets. She breathed a weary sigh as she waved her right-hand near a lamp that rested upon a small nightstand. The magical appliance illuminated the room in a soft, blue-colored light as she took in her current environs.
The walls of the room looked as if they were dug out of earth and stone, with various empty tables and bookshelves that bore slight outlines, hinting of having once been occupied. The size of the room itself was no larger than one might find in a mid-class inn meant to house a single individual, with a doorway into an equally conservative washroom.
The foot of her bed faced the entrance of the room as her sight fell on her robe that lay upon the bed's smooth wooden frame. Hilma lay her head back upon her cotton/feather pillow as she looked back upon recent events (A/N:CH.14). After being saved from a potentially gruesome fate, her new master named "Madara" brought her to this room via what she could only assume was teleportation magic to sleep off the rest of her evening.
It wasn't easy at first, given the fact that she was given yet another surprise in the form of an undead greeting her. However, since it deferred to and was obviously subservient to Madara, and she had experience in dealing with undead in the form of Six Arms' Davernoch, she was able to relent her initial worries. Especially when he said the undead named "Lottus" would be tending to her needs.
*KNOCK*KNOCK*
"Milady Hilma? Have thee awakened? I bring breakfast."
There was a light, whimsical chuckle as she thought to herself before replying to the undead behind her door.
'Ah, what was that old proverb? Speak the demon's name and he shalt appear?'
She lightly shook her head as she cordially replied while slowly beginning to sit up.
"Yes, I am awake."
"Then pardon me..."
As the door opened, the aromas of grilled potatoes and vegetables, fried eggs, bacon, and buttered bread accosted her sense of smell, and in turn elicited a grumble from her belly. An embarrassed blush colored her cheeks scarlet at the reaction, as she realized just how drained the previous evening left her.
Although before she could mull further, Hilma looked up and saw her undead caretaker frozen in place with his skeletal jaw slacked wide open. For a moment she was puzzled by this, until she realized that he was staring at her naked body. She always slept in the nude, and depending on who would be taking care of her needs, would not particularly care who saw her.
Given that this "Lottus" was an undead, she did not care if he saw her in the nude either. Still, his reaction was interesting, and very much amusing. Especially when he seemed to realize his actions, set her tray on top of a nearby desk, and appeared to become quite contrite and fluttered. As if he was honestly embarrassed. She could not help but lightly smile as he spoke in a tone that easily communicated this.
"A-Ahem! Pardon me, m-madam. I did not realize... I shalt be waiting for you outside. O-Once you are finished freshening up, I will escort you to where you get dressed. E-Excuse me."
With a rather elegant and gentlemanly bow, Lottus excused himself from Hilma's quarters. She slowly stood up and walked to the desk where her meal rested and sat down upon the rather comfortable cushioned seat, chuckling to herself as she processed what she observed of Lottus.
The undead's behavior and demeanor was quite different from what she would have expected in one his kind. Of course, her only point of reference was Davernoch, but it was still worthy of consideration. Whereas Davernoch radiated malice and hatred that was kept in check only by Zero's might, Lottus' presence was benign and neutral. She suspected that as long as you didn't threaten him, he would be quite amiable.
Then there was his demeanor. Whereas Davernoch acted more or less like a thug who cared little for etiquette, Lottus was actually quite polite and refined. She could see and hear an education in his words and actions. If she were blindfolded, or Lottus cast some sort of illusion upon himself, she could swear that he would pass for a noble. In short, to Hilma he seemed almost... human.
"Hu-hu-hu... How very interesting."
After finishing up her breakfast and freshening up, true to his word Lottus led her to another room where she could change. Between her room and the hallways, her initial impression of being in some sort of underground complex was only reinforced by the "dug in" appearance her room possessed.
She also continued to study Lottus' behavior and actions. While it was not as pronounced as it was before, she could tell that from the subtle hints in his body language that he was still rather embarrassed walking in on her. Resisting the urge to heartily chuckle at this, she was reasonably certain that if his face had skin, it would be flushed cherry-red.
Hilma was then taken from her amused thoughts as they reached their destination, and Lottus opened the door and courteously bowed to her. She gracefully returned the gesture, as she stepped in and was pleasantly surprised to see a well-kept storeroom that somewhat reminded her of what she herself once possessed.
Chests, footlockers, and cabinets were neatly organized with separators that allowed one some privacy so they could change. As she was mentally taking stock of the room's probable contents and where to start, her guide gentle spoke up from behind.
"Ahem... I took the liberty of selecting some choice garments a fair lady like yourself might be inclined to have as part of her wardrobe. You will find them to your right."
"..."
Indeed, that was where her line-of-sight was originally leading her to before he spoke up, but having it confirmed was nice regardless. Turning to address the undead, Hilma gave the most charming and seductive smile that had enthralled many in the past as she spoke in a matching tone with a bow.
"Thank you very much, Lottus. It will be wonderful to wear something a bit more comfortable that a simple night robe~"
As she turned to approach the wardrobe, she halted her steps then turned again when Lottus addressed her in a respectful and contrite tone.
"Um, excuse me, milady? About before, I do apologize for mine earlier transgression. I had not realized that you were... Well... In a rather vulnerable state. Perhaps it should have occurred to me to supply thee with a nightgown."
As he gave her another bow with his apology, Hilma chuckled at this as she spoke in a friendly tone.
"Oh, it's quite all right, my friend. I always sleep bare, so it would not have mattered. So do not give it any more thought."
"O-Oh... I see... Well then, it pleases me that I did not give milady offense. Verily, it hath been some while since I had seen a fair lady such as yourself, so I was caught by surprise."
"He-he-he... My, aren't you the flatterer~?"
"I... Ahem! Pardon me..." Lottus said as he fake-coughed into his fist, once again realizing his mistake, and the awkwardness of his body language and tone once more amusing Hilma to no end.
"Think nothing of it. A lady appreciates such honest words of flattery. Still, as much as I am enjoying our conversation, perhaps I should change? Our mutual master Madara will likely have need of us soon, yes?"
"A-Ah, yes! Quite right! How astute of you, milady. In fact, milord actually is expecting us to greet him anon."
"Then, excuse me. I shouldn't be long."
With a bow, Hilma turned and walked over to the wardrobe with a pleasant smile on her face. Despite all her testing and teasing of this undead, as far as she could tell, all words and actions were indeed honest. There wasn't an ounce of malice or duplicity from the undead, and despite her instincts telling her that Lottus was far stronger than Davernoch, she felt safe around him. It was an odd feeling to be sure, but she trusted her instincts.
Reaching the destination, she opened a cabinet with the wardrobe inside, and was surprised by the assortment of high-quality dresses and garments on display. Though some of the styles were older than what she typically wore, they looked brand-new. Then she caught a faint flicker of light from one of the dresses, and all at once understood that they were enchanted with magic!
She had to restrain her excitement as she peeled her robe off and retrieved a purple-colored dress with gold-colored trim from the display. It was one of the most "modern" looking of them and was in a color she liked. More than that, she could tell that it was one of the finest in the collection.
Without hesitation she slipped the dress on, and her instincts were proven correct as it not only adjusted in size to her body's size and shape, but she could feel the enchantments giving her a sense of protection as well. Not the least of which, how incredibly comfortable the dress was. It was like the finest velvet she had ever felt, contouring itself to her like a second-skin.
Due to it being a full-body dress that went down to her ankles with long-sleeves and high-collar however, she was slightly disappointed that she could not show off even a hint of skin. It was after all, her standard practice to dress in as revealing garments as possible to entice and manipulate men, and even some women, into whatever schemes required.
Although, since the dress left little to the imagination by contouring itself to her body's shape, it would still work. Her instincts told her that this "Madara" would likewise have need of her talents in coercion, even if she did not know the particulars. Looking herself over in a nearby mirror, striking a few poses in various positions, she smiled and purred in satisfaction.
'Yes, this will work nicely~'
Taking a pair of knee-high, high-heel velvet boots that were likewise enchanted, as well as a small purse that could be slung over her shoulder, her look was complete. There were a few sets of finely made undergarments in a nearby drawer, but decided to forego them. At least until she truly had a "need" for them.
Changing into her new wardrobe took less than 15-minutes as she confidently stepped out, presenting herself before Lottus with a twirling flourish as she spoke.
"Well~? How do I look?"
"...!"
Once again, Lottus' reaction was noticeable as his jaw slacked wide-open and froze on the spot, but it was even more so. Especially when faint, barely audible words escaped from his mouth, which Hilma clearly heard, thanks to the nature of the walls.
"You look, just like her..."
"Her?" Hilma questioningly said with head tilted.
This was an unexpected development. Did she somehow remind him of someone else? She then heard a weary sigh from Lottus as he spoke.
"I beg your pardon, madam. For a moment, in that dress, you hath reminded me of someone I once knew, long ago."
"Is that so? Then, forgive me for prying, but whom did I remind you of?"
"My... wife"
"...!"
Hilma was positively stunned at those lowly spoken words. Wife? How was that possible? The naked confusion painted upon her countenance was all that was needed to tell Lottus that now he had to explain himself. Although his body language told Hilma he was hesitant as he looked away from her, then back to her, and then away again before he spoke in a somber tone.
"Ah, how foolish. Perhaps I should have anticipated this. I have been in isolation so long... We will be serving the same master, so perhaps telling you will be permissible. To fully answer your unspoken query milady, requires that I reveal that I was once a human being. Until that damnable cult of Zuranon used me in an experiment that turned me into... this."
As he turned to face her, with the back of his skeletal left-hand held upright, Hilma did not fail to hear the anger, the rage boiling in his voice and presence as he figuratively spat the name. All at once everything made sense. If Lottus was once human, that perfectly explained why he was so different from Davernoch, whom was a naturally occurring undead.
Of course, she expertly hid her shock, but not just from this revelation, but out of necessity, due to the fact that while it was small, Eight Fingers has had some few dealings with Zuranon in the past. The undead worshipping cult needed supplies from time-to-time, and could hardly go to any legitimate sources for them.
'I best not mention Eight Fingers' past dealings with them. After what this man has lost, there is no guarantee he wouldn't vent his anger out on me.'
Thus reaffirming her will, Hilma breathed a calming breath, and walked over to Lottus, who was still stewing in a pall of anger and melancholy. She could not even imagine what such a change would do to a person, and given Zuranon's reputation, it was not difficult to guess what happened to his late-wife. Nor why she resembled his late wife. In all likelihood, the dress she now wore once belonged to her.
Laying a placating hand upon his now shaking fist, Hilma gave him a sympathetic look she looked into his "eyes". She was hardly a sentimental individual. That was a part of herself she had long ago left behind. However, she has comforted individuals who have experienced loss, and was well practiced in giving them what they need to hear and how to say it as she spoke.
"Forgive me, Sir Lottus. I apologize for having brought up such painful memories. I did not mean to cause my newest comrade pain."
The soft, sincere tone, filled with warmth and comfort, seemed to shake Lottus from his stupor of rage, as he realized what just happened. He felt the warmth in Hilma's hand and, even if for a fleeting moment, remembered what it was like to feel alive. Then was filled with a profound sadness as that feeling was quashed as quickly as it arrived, wonderomg if there was any in the world that could understand the frustration of being a human soul, inside an undead body.
Mentally putting that to the side, he lowered his hand and elegantly bowed to Hilma as he spoke in an appreciative tone.
"Tis quite alright, milady. You hath little to apologize for. I thank you for your kindness, and I am sure that my late-wife would be happy to see her wardrobe being put to good use, after I had preserved them with magic."
"Oh? So enchanted these clothes?"
"Indeed. It was after I had become... this. I wanted to preserve what I could of my past life as a human."
"Well, are you sure this is fine? Knowing that these fine garments belonged to your late-wife..."
Lottus held up a hand to forestall any more from Hilma's as he calmly spoke.
"Aye, 'tis fine, milady. So please do not trouble yourself. Verily, even if that were the case, I am ashamed to admit that we have few alternatives to grant... Ahem! Though we are replete with items and garments for warriors and magic casters, female attire for more 'normal' applications is something we sorely lack."
Lottus looked away for a moment as he scratched the back of his head with a bony hand, and the clear embarrassment and realization that they lacked in women's clothing struck Hilma as so utterly ridiculous that she could not help but laugh.
"Pffft~! Ah-hah-hah-hah-hah-hah!"
"Heh... Hehehehe... Ah~ah."
As Hilma's laughter echoed off the walls, Lottus felt enough humor in the situation to dryly chuckle as his newest comrade wiped tears from the edges of her eyes. It was a welcomed moment of levity before they had to go see their master.
"Ahem! Now, before we go to Milord Madara, you will need this..."
Pulling out a ring of gold and emerald, he handed it to Hilma as she came down from her laughter and impressed him with how her demeaner swiftly changed to that of a serious businesswoman. She held the ring at eye-level, marveling at its craftsmanship before she leveled a questioning gaze upon him.
"As you may suspect, 'tis a magic item. We postulated that it would cause problems if milady was recognized, so yonder ring shalt slightly alter your appearance and voice, so long as you bear it upon your person. Rest assured that is all the ring shall do. Nothing more."
'Hmm... He does have a point. If what I suspect is correct, this Madara might need me as an agent that works out in the open. A face that people could recognize would be problematic. More so if anyone from Eight Fingers recognized me from even vague descriptions. Quite a useful thing to have. I wonder...'
Without another moment's hesitation, Hilma placed the ring upon her right-hand's ring-finger, and within an instant she felt an energy move over the surface of her skin like electricity before it settled. Beyond that, she hardly felt any different. Sensing her curiosity, Lottus motioned to a nearby mirror on the wall, and she was stunned.
The item had changed the coloration of her hair, eyes, and skin completely. Instead of blue eyes, a pair of amethyst orbs were looking back at her. Her signature blonde hair was now a fiery crimson-red, whilst her skin now had a smooth, cocoa-brown to sharply contrast her previous complexion, which closely resembled that of Edström's of Six Arms.
Her new look was actually quite exotic, if she had to say so herself, but more than that, there was no way anyone, even her former associates were going to recognize her. Suddenly, a thought then occurred to her as she rolled up her right sleeve, and sure enough, her signature [Viper's Tattoo] was no longer visible. Truly, anything that could identify her as Hilma Cygnaeus of Eight Finders was obscured from sight. Although...
"You said my voice would... change~? Amazing~!"
Indeed, the change in pitch and tone was subtle, but was there as she lightly held her throat. It truly was like she had become a different person. She was eager to see how extensive these changes were, but she did not have time to mull as Lottus spoke with a now more serious, businesslike tone as he opened the door for her.
"Come, milady. Milord Madara awaits. He shalt brief you on your tasks, and gift unto you what you will need to carry them out."
"Oh~? Very well. Let us proceed."
...
It was morning in the capital of the Re-Estize Kingdom as the people had barely begun to address what transpired from the previous evening's events. The "Demonic Disturbance" as it was being called, utterly uprooted any sense of normalcy or safety the people had previously felt. Although the heroics of Momon of Darkness did a great deal to reassure the populace that there was still some hope despite such recent, terrifying events.
Evileye gazed down on the ruined streets from a nearby window as she looked back on it all. All those that took part in the fight against the demons were getting a much-needed respite, and even her comrades were resting comfortably in the quarters provided to them in the Royal Palace.
Meanwhile, she had teleported back to their usual room in their usual inn to be alone with her thoughts. She could barely keep pace with it all, and yet there was something about all of it that gnawed at her, now that she had time to calmly process everything. This whole affair came to a head within the same moon of when Blue Rose had investigated that cultist/kidnapping case in Leite Village (A/N:CH.10).
She had already passed information on everything she knew to the old lady from her days with the Thirteen Heroes, and received word that she would look into it. However, with her mind in total turmoil, her patience was at an end. While the spell was not trusted, and for good reason, with an annoyed sigh she cast the [Message] spell to reach the person in question.
'[Oi! Old granny! You there?]'
After a brief silence, an amused reply filtered into her consciousness.
'[Well, well~! Isn't this a surprise... Tell me, "crybaby", from whence did you come from?]'
An annoyed growl escaped Evileye's throat as she flatly replied.
'[Inveria, Rigrit. The former homeland of the "Rainbow Eyed" people.]'
'[Oh~hohoho! Good enough~.]'
As much as this annoyed Evileye, she could not fault her old comrade and predecessor on Blue Rose. After all, ever since the fall of Gatenburg 300-years ago, the general distrust of [Message] had been ingrained into everyone, everywhere. Even in her youth when she was still a human girl, the distrust of the spell was prevalent.
Rightfully so, since the contents of the spell became distorted the greater the distance covered, and the fact that it was hardly the most secure of communications. So this sort of sign/counter-sign exchange to verify one's identity was the norm. If ever faced with a situation where using the [Message] spell was either unavoidable, or so important that it could not wait, it didn't matter how much it vexed her.
'[Argh! Anyways, if you're convinced it's me, have you reached that cave I told you about?]'
'[Hm... Indeed I have, but this is a conversation best had in person. I assume you can teleport to the village?]'
"..."
The serious shift in Rigrit's tone silenced whatever discontent Evileye might have had. It was clear to her that her old comrade found something, so the expense in mana would likely be a small price to pay.
'[Alright. I'm on my way.]'
[Message End]
Evileye then promptly moved to the empty center of the dark room. Since she left a marker in that village, teleporting there would not be difficult, and she was frankly eager to learn was the old granny had discovered.
"[Maximize Magic: Teleportation]!"
...
After surveying the entirety of the cave's chambers and having finished the rather unexpected call from "Evileye", Rigrit patiently awaited her old comrade to arrive in the center-most chamber. She was not expecting to hear from her again so soon, but then again, given recent events perhaps it should have been expected. After all, even she had contacts in the capital to keep her apprised of recent events.
Her attention was then taken away from her thoughts, as the object of her musings briskly entered the central chamber, and a fond yet mischievous smile spread over her lips as she spoke in a matching tone.
"Yo, little Keno~ That was fast. This village must have been on the outer edge range of your [Teleportation]."
"Hmph!"
Evileye derisively huffed at her old comrade's jab as she pulled back on her hood and removed her mask. The stern expression on her face was enough to impress upon Rigrit how serious the little vampire was, and that the banter would have to wait. A mentality in which she somewhat shared, but usually still found a moment or two for levity.
"So? What have you found?"
"..."
Rigrit's features softened, and then slowly became serious as she nodded and turned her attention to the far end of the cave, speaking with a neutral tone.
"The centuries have greatly changed the landscape, but there's no doubt about it; this was the final 'resting place' for one of the 'Evil Deities' of yore."
There was a long, weary sigh from Evileye as she replied in a firm, but now calm tone.
"I thought so... This was one you and the rest took care of before I joined up, wasn't it?"
"Oh, indeed~ It was quite the troublesome thing. It had the ability to psychically feed off certain 'tainted' energies of those nearby. It could read minds and twist the living into serving its needs, corrupting even the most pious of individuals to manipulate and control them. Well, if the right conditions were met that is."
"Yes, yes I know all about that. I remember what you and the rest have told me before, but could you be a little more specific? There were a few among those monsters with similar abilities... Their master included."
At that last mention, Evileye's voice turned bitter and sullen. Understanding why, Rigrit decided to forgo the usual banter that would escape her lips and matter-of-factly answered.
"The one I speak of was called, 'Dy'varnak'. The Evil Deity of Sin and Corruption."
"Ah, that one... So, my hunch was right... Dammit."
Evileye bit her lip at the confirmation. She had hoped that when she told her teammates on Blue Rose about her initial suspicions (A/N:CH.12), that she would be wrong. However, recent events in the capital city crushed those fleeting hopes. The malice that practically oozed from that demon calling himself "Jaldabaoth", would be something she would remember for all time. So given the events in the capital, the question she hesitated to ask came to the surface.
"And?... Has it escaped?"
At this question, Rigrit turned to her junior with a superior, mocking smirk, not missing the chance to poke fun at her old friend.
"Well, well~! And here I thought you'd grown. Can't you tell with just a glance~?"
"Grrrr... Cut the crap, granny! I'm not in the mood!"
There was an amused chuckle as Rigrit shook her head and levied a piteous look upon her.
"Oh, I'm being completely serious my little crybaby. Teehee~! But since you're in one of those moods, let me put it another way... What's your magical specialty?"
"Hmph! Fine! I'll play along. It's Earth-Element. What about it?" Evileye replied in thinning patience.
"Oh~hoh~! Still not catching on? Very well then..."
Like an amused teacher having fun with their student, Rigrit pointed at the far end of the cave as she spoke in a pedagogical manner.
"Place your hand on the ground, and with your elemental affinity, focus your senses. Even a novice like you should be able to sense it.~"
"..."
Evileye quietly glared at her old friend and senior for the jab and roundabout way she was getting to her point, but nonetheless acquiesced to her instructions. She moved to the location, then kneeling and placing her left-hand on the ground as she focused her senses. As an undead and an Earth-Element specialist, her connection to the element she commanded was strong.
As Rigrit was a Necromancer, she too possessed a strong affinity for Earth-Element in the Arcane School of [Tier Magic]. So if she was egging Evileye on to do this, it was for a reason, and not just to trade jabs with her. Focusing her senses into the ground beneath her feet, at first all she felt was those same faint traces she felt back when they came upon this cave...
"...!"
Just then as her thoughts drifted to that time, like a needle prick into her brain, she felt it.
"Gyaaaah~!"
Evileye hastily backed away from that spot in a manner akin to avoiding an attack. Although she did not need to breath, she was practically gasping for air to calm herself at what she had felt. The presence was unmistakable. The malice, hatred, rage, and sickening presence indicating that a demon was present.
Its sickening influence, malevolence, and spite nearly rivaled that of the much more powerful Jaldabaoth. She did not think such a thing was possible, but then again, the last 24-hours has showed her just how limited her knowledge and vision truly was. So when Rigrit sidled up to her with an amused chuckle, she would take whatever jabs she had to say in stride.
"I see you've finally caught on. It's quite the 'shock', isn't it?"
"Ugh, yes, it is, and I finally get what you were saying." Evileye said in resignation.
"Oh, don't feel too bad. I had a similar reaction when I got here. I'm just thankful I was alone when it happened. An old lady like me needs to maintain some dignity. Ah~kakaka!"
"..."
Evileye gave Rigrit a flat look before facepalming and shaking her head at her old friend's antics. She then sat on the ground cross-legged as she gazed at that area and processed what she felt from it. Noticing her pensive disposition, Rigrit smiled and spoke in a more relaxed, friendly tone.
"So, I take it that you noticed something else, along with the demon's presence?"
"Hm? Y-Yeah. It's still sealed, but it felt... strange. The type of power I felt from it was unlike anything I've ever felt. It's powerful but feels... foreign. It also felt like... like it could've killed me if I tried tampering with it." Evileye contemplatively replied.
"Oh? That last bit is different from what I felt. It must mean a power dangerous to undead was used. Still, it is strange. I've encountered [Tier Magic] and [Wild Magic] in various forms, but this bore little to no similarity with either." Rigrit replied as she cradled her chin with her left thumb and index-finger.
"But still, this means someone stopped this Evil Deity from being released, and then reinforced the seal you all placed on it back then." Evileye earnestly said.
"Hm. Indeed~! But then that begs the question of who, and we are woefully short on enough information to draw any conclusions there." Rigrit said with a disappointed sigh.
"What about the information I gave you on the possibility of a cult dedicated to the Evil Deities? Do you have anything there?"
"Hoh... Well, THAT was something that caught my attention. As it so happens, I've heard some rumors of such a thing before." Rigrit nonchalantly replied, eliciting an annoying growl from Evileye.
"What?! Why didn't you say anything before?"
"Oi, oi. Calm down my little crybaby. As I said they're only rumors. Nothing's been confirmed at present. Also, the source of these rumors stems from the Karnassus City-State Alliance, and are relatively recent. So I hardly expected something like this so far out west. Compared to a cult like Zuranon, they haven't been quite as active. Hells, I don't even have a name for them."
Rigrit's new information seemed to sober Evileye slightly as she relented and spoke with a more somber disposition.
"If that's the case, then who knows how long they have been active. But to move so far from the City-State Alliance and for us to not even notice... Not to mention this 'Demon Emperor' Jaldabaoth..."
For a moment, Evileye seemed to sink further into thought, before Rigrit spoke up in a questioning tone.
"Oooh~! That actually reminds me, why don't you tell me all that transpired in the capital recently as we leave this place? My contacts could only provide the bare minimum of details after all."
"Hmm... I suppose so. It's not like I'll be able to figure this out on my own." Evileye replied in a reluctant tone as she got up to leave with her old friend, once again donning her mask and hood.
"Teehee~! It seems you really have grown, little Keno. Just not in height."
"Oh, shut it!"
"Ah~kakaka~!"
Evileye folded her arms grumbling as Rigrit's boisterous laugh echoed within the cave. Still, pushing her annoyance to the side, she began to brief her old comrade on recent events in the capital. Unbeknownst to either of them however, one of Madara's Wood-Clones was covertly eavesdropping on their entire exchange from nearly the beginning, and as their talk continued, the clone could not help but be impressed by the older woman.
'So that's Rigrit Bers Caurau... One of the legendary "Thirteen Heroes" of old. Impressive that her mastery of this world's magic has allowed her to live for so long. Her vast knowledge and expertise should be useful in the future. It was worth tracking Evileye here...'
The Madara Wood-Clone smiled as he followed them out of the cave, intrigued by this latest development, and wondered in mild excitement where this latest surprise would take him...
...
Deep within the bowels of Nazarick, Ainz Ooal Gown had called a meeting between himself and all his Guardians within the Throne Room. Even Victim from the 8th-Floor was present for this meeting. As soon as he could, Ainz switched places with Pandora's Actor, who assumed the adventurer persona of "Momon" during his absence. Given recent events, he felt it best to instruct him to act as he saw fit as he addressed just what had happened in the capital.
To say things were tense in the throne room would have been a mild understatement and while Ainz could understand, and even relate, he was impressed with how they held it back. Sebas and the Pleiades Battle Maids were present, and he had already given him and Solution their congratulations and promises of reward for their performance in information gathering.
So next came the kneeling forms of Mare Bello Fiore, who uncharacteristically insisted on being next to the likewise kneeling and recently revived Entoma Vasilissa Zeta.
"Raise your heads you two, and give full attention to our Supreme One, Ainz Ooal Gown."
Albedo crisply announced to his right-side as the NPCs dutifully obeyed without hesitation. Nodding in satisfaction, he rose his voice in a dignified yet soft tone as he addressed the two still kneeling NPCs.
"Mare Bello Fiore. Entoma Vasilissa Zeta. I thank you for attending this meeting. As you know, the operation in the Kingdom's capital was a success. However, certain unexpected things happened that we all need clarified... Mare?"
"Y-Yes~!" The young Dark Elf Druid timidly squeaked in reply.
"Be at ease, Mare." Ainz said in a comforting and gentle tone.
"First, I will say I do not blame you for what had happened to Entoma. Nor am I angry with you. I simply want you to tell us what you remember the last time you were with her."
"O-Of course, Ainz-sama~! I-I humbly give thanks... Um... Well, that night... W-We followed Demiurge-san's plan exactly to raid that house owned by Eight Fingers. T-There were just a few s-surprise hidden rooms to d-delay us clearing it out, but nothing too bad. B-But then that Dark Knight appeared..."
The timid, crossdressing Dark Elf then recounted what he could when he met the darkly armored individual in that manor (A/N:CH.14). While he felt no hostile intent from that man, and even a little bit of caution, once he answered his question as to whether or not the most important person was there or not, he admitted with some shame that he did not pay attention to an individual he considered to be doomed anyways.
Mare then went on to detail how Entoma suggested that Mare report to Demiurge in the rather unexpected change in plans, and to leave Entoma to the rest. Since he had no reason to doubt her, he left things as they were without cause to worry. Something he keenly regretted later and felt compelled to bow low and contritely prostrate before his master.
"M-My humblest apologies, A-Ainz-sama~!"
'Eh? Why's he apologizing? Didn't I just say I didn't blame him? Good grief... Do they ever learn?' Ainz hummed in thought as he regally rose his hand spoke softly.
"Mare, I'll say it again; I do not blame you, so there is no need to apologize... Demiurge?"
"Yes! How may I assist, Ainz-sama?" Demiurge quickly replied without losing his composure and grace.
"Umu... Does Mare's descriptions match the individual that you encountered?"
"Ah, yes my lord. It matches perfectly."
"Hmm... Very good. Now, Entoma?"
"Y-Yes, Ainz-sama?" The Insectoid NPC answered with subtle anxiety.
"Be at ease... I just wish to confirm one last time... Do you still remember nothing of which they spoke?"
"M-My apologies, Ainz-sama. I still remember nothing of what they speak." Entoma contritely said in shame with a bow.
'Hmm... I had Albedo check the roster, and Entoma wasn't under any mind-control effects like Shalltear was, so does this mean that for an NPC, death and resurrection means the loss of memory? They both lost about a few days' worth after being revived after death, so it seems to fit. Is this some way to balance out how NPCs don't lose levels like a Player? Damn shitty-devs! Even after the Transfer...! Grrr... Calm down. The NPCs are tense enough...'
Indeed, as he surveyed the throne room, he could see their uneasy faces. Even Albedo to his side seemed to have picked up on his foul mood. It wasn't their fault of course. Ever since he received the news of Entoma's death, he was reminded of his failure with Shalltear, and how the NPCs of his friends still seemed to act without due caution in this world. Even after what happened with Cocytus. Perhaps that he needed to be more forceful to get his point across...
"Listen well, all of you! After what happened with Cocytus and the lizardmen, I thought it was adequately explained to you all the necessity of due caution in this world. But clearly I was mistaken!" (A/N:CH.9)
'"...!"'
All the NPCs were rocked to their very core with that statement. Although it shamed them to admit that their master was correct. What happened with Cocytus was treated in their minds as an "isolated" incident. After all, with the information Sebas and their master had gathered as Momon, nary a hint of any "real" danger in the pathetic Kingdom's capital was ever hinted. It was not like they missed something, but rather a lack of caution for the unexpected. Something that they could not deny.
"M-My sincerest apologies, Ainz-sama~! As Guardian Overseer, it was my duty to ensure that all of Nazarick should have been better prepared and impressed upon the importance of your words. To treat your teachings so lightly...! Ahem! I am prepared to accept whatever punishment you see fit~!"
'Eh?! Maybe I went too far...?'
As Albedo prostrated herself before their master, her voice fearful and shaken, Ainz could only stare on in silence as he thought on how his words were received. In his anger he had forgotten just how much importance they placed on every word he said and action he made. The absurd levels of respect and borderline worship they gave him often felt suffocating. Especially when he had to continue to role-play as their wise ruler.
'Dammit! This makes it ever worse, but I can't back down now!' Ainz thought to himself as he steeled his resolve to continue.
"Albedo! That is enough. Stand by my side and listen."
Her body shook as if jolted by electricity, and hesitated for only a moment before she stood back up and bowed to her master in acknowledgement and returned to her position.
"My loyal servants of Nazarick, hear me. Three times now have we underestimated what lies beyond Nazarick's halls, and three times now a price was paid. I should not have to be the one to make you ALL understand, how important it is that we act with due caution in this world. A world in which we still know woefully little about..."
Ainz paused to allow his words to sink in, and to give himself time to think of what to say next, as he was now simply improvising as he went along. Trying his best to put his concerns in the best way possible. It was like improvising a presentation without prep-time, which were the absolute worst ones for him.
Meanwhile, the NPCs were awash in regret and shame in varying degrees. Especially Shalltear, since it didn't take her and the others long to surmise the "three events" included the incident when she was brainwashed/controlled through the use of a [World Item]. Though their master said it was his fault, and she had already been punished, it was still a mark of shame for her. Although everyone present could now understand how she felt.
"Demiurge." Ainz calmly called out.
"Yes, my lord!"
"From now on, whenever plans are made to take action outside of Nazarick, you will include me in the planning phases. Do not make ANY assumptions on what you think I may or may not know. Do you understand?"
"Of course, Ainz-sama! It will be done!"
Though it was subtle, everyone could hear Demiurge's voice waver ever-so-slightly. It was quite the rarity for the Arch Devil to become flustered and lose his composure, but none could fault him for it. They all felt the same. For them, Ainz's disappointment meant that the possibility of his leaving them could actually arrive. A thought that struck absolute terror in their hearts. They could not mull further, as their beloved master continued speaking.
"Albedo, in 2-hours I shall give a special... let's call it a 'seminar', in the Amphitheater on first contact situations against unknown entities. I shall personally teach all present on proper tactics and strategies to employ when faced with the unknown. Any who wish to attend are welcomed. We cannot have another repeat of what happened in the capital. Understood?"
"Y-Yes, Ainz-sama~! Your will be done. Then may I assume that afterward we will make preparations to solidify our hold on Eight Fingers in the Kingdom?"
'Oh, crap! I was so focused improving them that I totally forgot about that! Wait, don't panic. It should still be fine. Demiurge assured me before this that his Royal collaborator Renner should be laying the groundwork for that... Um, what was the name of that Eight Fingers leader that they've got locked up in the Black Capsule? Coco-something? Ah, forget it! I can work that out later. Just got to focus on finishing this meeting so I don't appear forgetful or indecisive!'
"Umu... That is correct. Be sure to tend to that as soon as possible and keep me apprised of those developments. Until then, I shall leave to prepare, and will meet you all at the appointed place at the appointed time. That is all."
'"Yes, Ainz-sama!"'
"Umu."
After they all acknowledged his instructions in unison, Ainz teleported into his room to gather his thoughts. Noticing the presence of a maid and groups of Eight Edged Assassins, he curtly spoke in an authoritative tone.
"All of you, leave me at once. I wish to be alone."
"...!"
There was hesitation from the NPCs present as he gave his instructions, and would have given some arguments on how they could not leave their beloved master alone, but they were also quick to pick up on his darkly foul mood. It frankly unnerved them, and given recent gossip at how one of the Pleiades lost their life on the outside, they relented as they bowed and followed his instructions.
It took only a handful of seconds for the NPCs to clear out before Ainz was finally alone, and then collapsed face-first in a heap onto his bed. He exhaled loudly as he vented his frustrations in a loud, frustrated outburst...
"WHAT THE HELL?!"
Anger, frustration, inadequacy, weariness, and disappointment in self all stewed into a single pot of emotion that finally boiled over as he ranted to himself.
"Why the hell is it SO HARD for the NPCs to understand?! Are they so deluded into thinking that nothing can touch them?! It's hard enough role-playing for them as it is! This has got to STOP!"
More than ever, Ainz was convinced that they should not take anything in this world lightly. It may have been weaker than YGGDRASIL overall, but it seemed as if there were unexpected dangers lurking around every corner, ready and willing to trip them up if they weren't careful. A fact proven too often to discount.
"Ah, what was it that Punitto Moe-san used to say all the time...? Um...? Once is happenstance, twice a coincidence, but three times is... Eh? Dammit! I can't remember. Keh! I better brush up on his 'PKing for Dummies' before the seminar. Ah~ah... How exhausting... I really wish I could sleep. Hm? That fragrance again... It's so relaxing... I really wish I could just stay in it all day... But! It's time to get the NPCs trained up! Next time, they WILL be ready!"
The flames in Ainz's eye-sockets burned brightly with determination as he reaffirmed to himself newfound purpose; to train the NPCs from the ground up in tactics and strategies as if they were a group of YGGDRASIL noobs. He was now through having them suffer and die due to any of his or their mistakes. Next time, he would make sure they would be ready...
...
Footsteps echoed off the walls as Lottus and Hilma reached their destination, which was the same chamber used to summon Damar and the currently absent Benkei and Dorian. The former dutifully stood next to a seated and fully equipped Madara who kept his attention focused on the summoning circle before them. Lottus and Hilma bowed as Lottus dutifully spoke for them.
"Milord Madara, we have arrived as instructed."
"Umu... Good. Then we can begin shortly." Madara matter-of-factly acknowledged.
"Ah, you must be Damar." Hilma courteous greeted as she gave the rather handsome man her attention.
"Indeed, milady. I am he. A pleasure to make your acquaintance. Welcome to the fold." Damar cordially replied with a head-bow.
"Ah, I thank you for the warm reception... Hm? Is this where it will happen?"
"Yes, indeed. I see our mutual comrade Lottus has already taken the liberty of informing you of what is to take place here."
"Quite right, my friend. As there was some time, I informed Lady Hilma of what to expect." Lottus replied as he motioned towards the summoning circle.
"Hm... Good work, Lottus. Then we can begin." Madara curtly said.
As undead skeletons began to lay four small bundles no larger than her hand onto four distinct circles, Hilma was quite overwhelmed with curiosity, fascination, and expectation. To summon the dead back into the world of the living using living sacrificing was something completely foreign to her. (A/N:CH.12)
Indeed, she could see four motionless, unconscious goblins inside the circle, waiting for their eventual fates. A grim smirk spread over her lips at the irony of it all. That vermin like goblins were to be used for such a thing. Especially when those to be brought back would be none other than...
"Now... [Kuchiyose: Edo Tensei]!"
There was a palpable surge of power as Madara slammed his palms upon the circle, invoking the ritual. The circles brightly glowed, with paper-like debris swirling around the goblins as they regained consciousness. Howls of pain and agony echoed throughout the chambers before there was silence, and their cocooned forms slowly morphed into more humanoid shapes.
Glowing briefly for a moment, the debris fell away to reveal four members of Six Arms in Zero, Edström, Malmvist, and Peshurian, all draped in plain brown robes! Hilma was frankly stunned at the sight. Though she knew this would happen, thanks to information Lottus kindly shared on their way here, seeing it was something else entirely.
Of course, despite normally keeping his helm on at all times, she knew Peshurian all at once from his rather plain looks of short-cut, brown hair and brown eyes. Hilma made it a point to know as much as possible of the other divisions of Eight Fingers, and Six Arms was no exception to this. Although she was surprised that neither Davernoch nor Succulent were here, she had her suspicions, and thus kept any questions to herself until Madara could address them.
Soon enough the vacant looks in their eyes cleared, and the four revived members of Six Arms gasped for air, unsteady on their feet as looks of confusion painted their expressions. And as Hilma expected, Zero was the first to speak.
"W-What the hells is going on here?! Where am I?! Where the hell...?!"
"Be silent."
"...!"
Though his voice was low and soft, none could deny the commanding menace in his tone as he ordered Zero to be quiet. It was a shock to be sure, but it allowed him and the others next to him to take in their surroundings, and notice each other. To say they were completely shocked and confused would have been an understatement. Especially when the last thing any of them remembered were their violent deaths at the hands of an old butler.
"Now then, if you lot can remain calm, I will explain what has happened to you, and I will allow questions..."
Madara then went on to explain what happened to them and their current situation and status as [Edo Tensei]. Needless to say, their expressions ran the full spectrum of shock and surprise as their situations became apparent. Damar who silently stood to the side could sympathize with their situations. He had already been through this himself after all. As well as the power and quality of his panoply that likely dwarfed anything they had seen before.
"In other words, we're undead slaves to your will?" Edström said, her words echoing what all of them were thinking, now that Madara had explained their new state of being.
"Umu... Though simplistic, that is essentially correct." Madara plainly replied in an almost bored tone.
"Where's Davernoch and Succulent? If what you say is true, shouldn't they be here?" Zero gruffly asked, still struggling to come to terms with their situation.
"No. This method is to bring back the deceased to the land of the living, and Davernoch was never alive to begin with. As for Succulent, he had already proven himself too weak to be useful for my purposes, even with enhancement."
Madara's rather blunt analysis of Succulent was one that all present from Eight Fingers could understand. Even Hilma, who was not a warrior to begin with, felt that Succulent's overreliance on illusions to dispatch his foes was an underwhelming part of his repertoire. Frankly speaking, once she learned what he could do, it felt like a joke when compared to the others. It was then that the silent Malmvist took notice of her and was taken out of his stupor enough to speak.
"W-Who are the others, m-master?"
For Malmvist it just felt expected to call Madara that, given their situations. Edström simply sighed in resignation at the moniker and all that it represented. Not that she could complain, as the memory of her final moments still chilled her. Zero gritted his teeth like he chewed a bitter herb, while Peshurian seemed indifferent, simply glad to have been given a second chance.
"Hm... Yes, I should introduce you, as you will be working together. The undead is called Lottus Javyn Dale Franklin, and you will find him to be much more powerful than that weak undead who was with you in Six Arms..."
As the four former members looked upon the undead who gave them a courteous bow, they could feel the truth in Madara's words. If they had to described it, Lottus felt like the lion when compared to Davernoch's hound.
"This man is an [Edo Tensei] much like yourselves. His name is Damar Tvenstrup. Both he and Lottus are the ones to consult in matters of magic."
"A pleasure, I'm sure."
As the man named Damar gave a head-bow along with his amused reply, they did not fail to see the traits he also possessed. Namely, the same cracked skin and black eyes. It was then then Madara motioned to the smiling and disguised Hilma.
"The woman is someone you might well know. Perhaps she should introduce herself..."
"My thanks, my lord. It's good to see you again, Zero. Though the circumstances could have been better.~"
"Hm? Who the hells are you woman?" Zero indignantly said as he turned to regard her with a suspicious glare.
"Oh~! Pardon me... Perhaps this will help...?"
With a cunning smile, she slightly removed her ring to briefly reveal herself before putting it back on, shocking the four members of Six Arms.
"H-Hilma?!"
"Yes, Edström. It's been a while. Such a shame that your beautiful and exotic looks have been blemished by your death and revival, but I suppose it could have been worse~" Hilma replied in a haughty tone.
"Wha-?! What is the meaning of this?!"
"Now, now, Zero. Please do be calm. Unless you wish for our Lord Madara to demonstrate his domination over you once again~?"
"...!"
Zero clenched his fists so hard that if he were in his living body and not this "vessel" he found himself in, he would have drawn blood by now. What in the hells was SHE doing here? His mind raced with thoughts of betrayal, but he heeded her advice to remain calm. Especially when he noticed Madara's displeased expression that made his mind lurch back into itself. Whatever this "connection" he had with his man, it frankly unnerved him.
"Explain, Hilma. What is going on?" Zero asked with a sigh.
"Oh, it's quite simple my dear Zero. Lord Madara had saved me from the monsters that were attacking Eight Fingers as a whole. It appears we all fell for their trap, and I was simply lucky enough to have escaped with the help of our newest benefactor. As for the four of you? Well, I only just now learned about the monster in old man's skin that killed you all. It appears you got careless and underestimated who and what it was you were inviting in to 'play' with. Though I can't say I'm surprised..." Hilma almost mockingly said near the end, before Madara's authoritative voice cut her off.
"That's enough, Hilma."
"Ah~! O-Of course. My apologies my Lord Madara." Hilma contritely said as she gracefully bowed to him.
"W-What does she mean? What happened? And what was that old man? He really wasn't human, was he?" Peshurian inquired in a fluster tone that was shared by the other of Six Arms.
"Hm... He was not. We will fill you in on the details later, know that you lot were out of your league from the very beginning as powerful, non-human entities were infiltrating the capital, and you made the mistake of drawing their attention."
As Madara's cold, calculating tone filtered into their ears once again they felt a chill collectively run through their beings. Just WHAT had they gotten themselves into, and what had killed them all?! Though they were eager for answers, they knew better than to push the topic right now. As those who had lived in the underworld, they knew that patience was key, now that they've had time to get their bearings.
So for now, their first order of business was to ascertain just what their newest master would have of them, now that they were essentially thralls to his will. A sentiment shared by all of them as they looked and nodded to each other, and Zero stepped forward as their spokesman.
"Very well, chief. What would you have of us?"
For a moment there was an amused smirk from Madara as he took note of their solidarity and how Zero swallowed his pride. Yes, perhaps this lot wound be useful after all.
"Hmph... It seems you've come to accept your situation. Very well... I shall tell you. First, know that Hilma will be my agent acting for my interested when dealing with the outside world. One cannot remain in the shadows when trying to build something after all. You lot will answer to her as her subordinates as you all are sent on a mission in the Baharuth Empire."
"...!"
To say Madara's declaration had stunned them would have been a massive understatement. It was both ironic and demeaning that given their history, they would end up directly serving Hilma of all people. And it was all Hilma could do to burst out into laughter at this strange turn of events. Indeed, she did not think her newest master had a taste for the delicious irony of it all, but she would not complain. It simply made this all the more interesting.
"Forgive my interruption, my lord. If you would have me lead an excursion into the Empire, then might I be correct in assuming that you would have us consolidate whatever connections and resources we still have felt there?" She politely asked with a bow as she stepped forward.
"Hm... That is correct. You've done well ascertain my intentions. Although that is only part of my plan. For this, time is of the essence. I will supply the means for you lot to teleport to the relevant locations, and relocate any resources and people you are able to secure locations. The four of you will also receive the same means as Hilma to disguise yourselves, and I will expect this must be done with all haste. Am I understood?"
"A-Ah, quite so, my lord. Although I must ask, to where are we relocating these resources to?"
"Hmph... To the Dragon Kingdom in the south."
"..."
There was silence for a moment as the former members of Eight Fingers were struck with confusion at his declaration. What could possibly be of use in that Kingdom in decline and at war? Even Hilma seemed at a loss as to Madara's plans, but nonetheless resolved to fulfill her newest mission regardless as she stepped out in front of the others, and acknowledged their superior with a graceful bow and smiling affirmation. Whatever it was he had planned, she was sure that it would not be dull.
...
Deep underground in an unknown location in the Karnassus City-State Alliance, a moderate sized room lit only by candlelight played host to a group of nine hooded individuals. Each of whom sat evenly spaced at a circular-shaped table, as they each read through various stacks of papers.
Their manner of garments were nearly identical in theme and style, wearing well-kept robes of crimson and brown coloration, with a dark-brown sash worn over their right-shoulders that came over their chests. Each one possessed different gold or silver-colored symbols, denoting a possible hierarchy and ranks among their group.
This became especially apparent as a figure at the head of the circular table bore the most elaborate of golden embroidery with a matching gold amulet with an amethyst-colored jewel in its center. As he likewise sifted through a collection of papers in-front of him, one golden ring would be seen on each of his hands, one with a red jewel, and the other black.
Although the most striking feature of this man was the obsidian-colored horn that protruded from his hood where his forehead would be. The hood obscured most of his other features from view, save for a neatly trimmed, brown-colored goatee possessing white streaks on either side. As he finished his paperwork, his lips curled into a subtle frown as he interlaced his fingers and spoke in a neutral, authoritative tone.
"If you are all finished going over our latest reports, I shall call this meeting to order."
There were no objections from the others as their central figure nodded in approval, and then resumed speaking.
"Then the first order of business; what we are to make of the events that transpired in the Re-Estize Kingdom's capital nearly a week ago. Their 'Demonic Disturbance' as it is being called. We are reasonably certain that this was not our doing, correct?"
As their leader's query, another male robed figure answered in a businesslike tone.
"Indeed, it was not. Demonic summons on such a scale is beyond even our capabilities for the time being. Furthermore, according to what our informant in Leite Village reported, Sorejin Vizla and his acolytes were all dispatched, and as far as we can tell, their mission ended in failure." (A/N:CH.10)
At this admission, another of their number to his left spoke up in an inquisitive tone.
"Yes, I heard about poor Vizla's apparent demise. Such a shame, that. He was quite a useful pawn in his own right. Though there is some confusion as to who is responsible. I first heard it was Blue Rose, but then I hear it's some unknown third party."
"At present, there is no definitive answer as to who is responsible, save for the fact that it was most certainly not those troublesome adventurers of Blue Rose. Furthermore, the shrine holding one of the 'Exalted' seems to have disappeared from the cavern from whence it was excavated."
A series of quiet grumbles and displeased comments echoed among them at that. While it was well known that some of the Evil Deities were sealed away and not destroyed by the Thirteen Heroes, simply locating them was an exhaustive, arduous task. Finding even one was a miracle unto itself. Now all of that hard work was seemingly for naught.
Although their leader was strangely unperturbed at this news. Of course, his calm, calculating demeanor was only one of the reasons why he was leading them. The other...
"As we still have informants investigating the area, let us set that matter aside for the time being. Now, back to the topic of Re-Estize's recent events, have any of our scholars or diabologists unearthed any additional information concerning this, 'Jaldabaoth'?"
"At present there's nothing yet, Exalted Leader. It seems as though this demon simply appeared from the aether itself. None of the infernal realms that they have investigated have lent so much as a whisper of this, 'Demon Emperor'."
"..."
Once again, there were quiet grumbles among their number. The field of demonology was one that was frowned upon throughout the neighboring countries, and their group was among the few that actively practiced it. As a result, their Diabologists were among the most skilled and knowledgeable in the field. They who have dedicated themselves to the study demons, fiends, and devils were unmatched in such lore.
So it should go without saying that for such individuals to have come up with nothing was confounding to say the least. One among their number voiced their discontent at the situation without reserve, silencing the cacophony of murmurs.
"What sort of farce is this?! Our people's knowledge of the infernal should be unmatched in these lands, and we can't account for one demon?"
"Calm yourself, Brother Mikel." Their leader said with a pitying sigh.
"I... Yes, of course. My apologies, Exalted Leader."
"No, no. It's perfectly fine. I can understand your frustrations. Still, we must not allow ourselves to lose our reason. We all should know that our study of the demonic is hardly complete. More to the point, it is highly possible that this so-called 'Demon Emperor', is using an alias at this time. True names have power after all." Their leader calmly argued with placating, outstretched hands.
"Quite so, Exalted Leader. Although if your supposition is correct, there will be little we can do to investigate this demon. Other than the fact that he's extremely prideful and audacious to take on the mantle of 'Demon Emperor' for himself to supplant the Demon God." One of their number added with open distaste for Jaldabaoth, as others chime in with similar sentiments.
"Hmph! It's disgraceful."
"That creature doesn't know his place."
"To hells with the capital! That useless adventurer should have finished him..."
*CLAP*CLAP*
The disgruntled murmurs died down as their leader loudly clapped to bring their focus back on the meeting.
"Everyone, I share in your distaste in the creature's choice of titles, but let us not forget that unlike other would-be pretenders that have appeared over the centuries, he has power enough to validate his claims. I need not repeat what was regaled to us in these reports?"
'"..."'
There was collective silence from all present. Indeed, the number of demons that they surmised were summoned minions was unprecedented. Not to mention that wall of flame that covered such a wide area of effect. Such feats easily matched the feats of the Demon God from the old tales. Whoever this pretender truly was, there was no denying his might. Especially when reports also indicated that the Adventurer's Guild there gave him a difficulty rating over 200.
Such a rating was nearly unheard of, since even the Sea Dragon that claimed the waters beyond the Roble Holy Kingdom was only rated around 150. Although that also put into question the "Dark Hero" Momon that forced such a powerful demon like Jaldabaoth to retreat. Namely who or what such a powerful individual was, and where he came from.
"If there is nothing to add to the topic, my instructions are as follows; continue with our own investigations and report any rumors of demonic activity, no matter how trivial. Any questions?"
"Ah, just one Exalted Leader. One that leads into another issue. As our presence is still limited in the Kingdom, must we bring Zuranon into this investigation? Our relations with them are presently... difficult at best."
Disgruntled murmurs followed that admission, as their current relations with the undead cult was already strained in many respects. Especially when the cult was seen as a rival that claimed the Kingdom as part of its underground territory. When they expanded their operations to the Re-Estize Kingdom, a few incidents followed before they reached an agreement that could be best summarized as, "Don't interfere with us, and we won't interfere with you."
"Leave that matter to me. With the loss of Sorejin Vizla, our presence there is already tenuous at best."
"As you decree, Exalted Leader."
"Hm... Now then, on to other matters..."
This meeting of hooded figures continued onto other, more mundane topics, which included their budget, personnel, and management of their front operations that kept their activities financed. After 38-minutes of discussion, they adjourned for the day as the one called their "Exalted Leader" retired to his personal quarters after a brief 5-minute walk down a darkened hallway of stone construction.
There were no guards as he opened a set of simple wooden double-doors and smoothly closed them behind. The common area was also simple, with a fireplace to the left-wall providing heat and light through magical means. The wall to his right had a sturdy oaken desk against it with neatly stacked and organized piles of papers and tomes upon its surface. To his front was an open doorway leading to personal hygiene facilities and storage.
The far-left wall had a queen-sized canopy bed with partially transparent, crimson-colored curtains. As he looked upon it, he wearily sighed as he pulled back his hood, revealing a middle-aged Sharp Horn. They were a race of humanoids with a single crystalline horn upon their foreheads. Although his was unique in his horn being more akin to obsidian.
"What are you doing here, Isabella?" He said with apparent displeasure.
Upon his vexed query, a female voice yawned with exaggerated girth as a voluptuous feminine form sensuously rose. However, the most surprising aspect of this new figure was the fact that a pair of bat-like wings stretched forth from her waist. These wings peeled back the curtains to allow one a better view of her luscious appearance.
Her extremely large and generous bust was barely contained within a dark corset-like dress that revealed not only much of her cleavage, but also a lattice-like opening that revealed much of her abdomen. Gently sliding back into place upon her chest was a golden-colored amulet with a ruby in its center, with her wrists and half of her hands was covered by partial sleeves.
Her visage was like beauty incarnate with bright, smooth, vanilla-colored skin framed with long, dark-purple hair with streaks of white on either side. Sprouting up vertically from her hair was a pair crude, wicked horns that bore the same brown-red coloration of her wings, which looked as if they could easily impale a man. Her smile was predatory as she coquettishly replied.
"Aw, don't be like that now~ Can't I see our 'Exalted Leader' once in a while?"
"I have not the time nor the patience for your antics, Isabella. If I do not request your presence, you are to continue to oversee our gambling and brothel operations." He sternly said in a voice of thinning patience, which only seemed to amuse the demoness even more.
"Well, technically I'm doing just that. The rest wanted some girls to help relieve some of their stress for the evening, and I happily provided~ I just wanted to see if you wanted some company o' wise one. After all, it's not every day that I personally offer someone my 'services' without dismembering them after the fact.~"
As Isabella sensuously sidled towards him, his countenance held either excitement nor amusement. His expression was blank, and as she seductively reached for him, her hands stopped midway. They began to violently shake as they then suddenly wrapped themselves around her own throat.
"Huuurrk!"
As the demoness Isabella struggled against her own limbs, she grit her teeth as she looked down, seeing the man's right-hand lifted up, curled in a choking motion. She knew what this meant, and for any that witnessed this, it would have become clear that he used some kind of power to force her to choke herself. She shuddered as his eyes brightly shined with a crimson-red hue as he menacingly spoke.
"You overstep yourself, demoness! I have not the slightest interest in you, nor am I interested in such base acts. I am above such things. Do you understand?!"
His anger and wrath intensified as the phantom grip in his hand tightened upward, somehow levitating her off the ground a few feet as she struggled to breath. Yet despite the anger and fear this instilled in her being, Isabella smiled. It was truly a vexing thing. With her natural beauty and her special abilities, charming nearly any man was child's play.
Yet this one was always beyond her somehow. It was both infuriating and exhilarating all at once, and his single-minded obsession with the revival of the "Demon God" to the exclusion of all else only added to the appeal. Thoughts that drifted as she felt her very lifeforce being quite literally squeezed out by her own treasonous hands.
And then, just as all was going black, her grip suddenly released itself, and she unceremoniously slumped onto the floor as she gasped. Her ample bosom rapidly rose and fell as she took in deep and generous breaths, relieved that she was still among the living. Her glazed over eyes met his as she tilted her head up, and he balefully admonished her in a low timbre.
"Do not provoke my ire again, Isabella. Despite your power and usefulness, you can be replaced should I deem it necessary."
"Mm-hmm~"
She acknowledged his words with a slight head nod and licentious moan as she smiled at his expression of contempt and rancor. Those glowing red eyes he possessed gave her a thrill that she could not deny, and his iron will only added to the excitement. As the bruising on her neck began to heal, she sat up in a nubile manner as she smiled and spoke in a relaxed fashion.
"I must say my dear Exalted Leader, that [Talent] of yours to bend even a demon such as I to your will is something I never tire of seeing."
"Hrmph!"
He derisively snorted as he turned his back to her. Walking over to his desk, he removed a stack of neatly folded papers from an inner pocket of his robe, and as he placed it upon his desk, he spoke with contempt clear in his tone.
"Your foolishness knows no bounds it seems. My ability over your kind is nothing as pedestrian as a [Talent]. Now, if you are quite through playing these games of yours, I have work to do, as you do as well."
"..."
She could only sigh as her attempts at fishing for more information from him was tersely rebuffed. Although she did hear the rumors. That his "gift" was bestowed upon his ancestor by the Demon God himself, and passed down through the centuries to him. A gift that the "Most Exalted" would reclaim upon His resurrection. As much as she wanted to know the whole truth of the matter however, she enjoyed living more.
"I... I see. Then I shall take my leave. Have a pleasant day.~" Isabella seductively said with a graceful bow.
As she turned to exit his chambers, she smiled in gratification, knowing that despite her inability to get closer to and possibly control him, at least she served someone that could hold her interest. His ability to control those of demonic blood, and that dark presence she could feel from him intrigued her to no end. Truly, her interest in him only solidified itself as she left his chambers.
"..."
A few moments passed in the Exalted Leader's chambers, with only the sounds of the burning fireplace and shuffling of papers filling the air before a weary sigh escaped the man's lips. He pinched and rubbed the bridge of his nose in irritation before he spoke in a matching tone.
"I do not care for the uncouth who appear unannounced."
"Aw, please do not be that way, Serevin Masters-san.~"
A voice rang out seemingly out of nowhere, before space itself warped and came undone in the wall to his left, creating a square-shaped tear in the fabric of reality itself. The "Exalted Leader", whose name was revealed to be Serevin Masters, was neither surprised nor perturbed by this event. If anything, he seemed annoyed by this as a man casually strolled out from the darkened portal.
Eventually, his pale features were illuminated by the nearby fireplace, revealing grayish-blue unkempt short spiky hair worn in a ponytail. Light brown, bone-like structures protruded from the back of his head and wrapped around to his forehead, with only a small gap in-between. In addition, his eyebrows were clipped to being almost nonexistent, and wore long-sleeved, light-colored garments with a sectioned apron over it and a sash rounding out his attire. Overall, his attire would not be out of place from the far-southern countries where katanas came from.
Of course, this sudden visitor's most striking feature was a pair of light-lavender eyes with no discernable pupils. As well as a brightly glowing red fishing rod that was casually draped over his shoulder, held in his right-hand. A pair of wooden sandals softly clacked as he nonchalantly strode in with a confident grin.
"Hmph! What do you want, Urashiki?" Serevin groused in thinly veiled annoyance.
"Oya~? Now, now. Please don't be that way, Serevin-san. We have been good friends for a while now." The one called Urashiki replied in a playfully mocking tone.
"Pah! At best we are collaborators, Celestial."
"Hm? Perhaps so, but we can still be friendly with our business. Still, why so rough with your pretty little demoness?"
"Because much like yourself, she oversteps herself."
Severin snapped back as he took a seat at his desk, tending to some paperwork as he removed a steaming magic item kettle from a drawer. He poured himself an esoteric beverage called, "green tea", that was a rather expensive import from the far south.
"Oh? Aren't you going to offer your guest some tea? It's only fair, since I went through the trouble of getting it for you." Urashiki jabbed in amusement.
"Hmph... Unannounced visitors aren't afforded special courtesies."
"Oooh, you wound me~! After all I've done for you, Serevin-san." Urashiki theatrically retorted as he slapped his left-hand on his chest in mock sorrow.
"..."
Ignoring his theatrics, Serevin took a moment to calm his nerves by sipping on what has become his favorite tea, before speaking again in a much more calculating tone.
"Speaking of things you've done for us, have you heard of what has become of one of the 'Exalted Ones' you discovered for us in the Kingdom?"
At that mention, Urashiki likewise became a tad more serious in tone and posture, even though he still wore that same relaxed smile.
"Only what I overheard in that little meeting of yours, Serevin-san. Quite the intriguing turn of events. And after I went through all the trouble of finding it, digging it up, and helping your people get established there. Ah~ah... What a waste of effort too..." Urashiki mockingly said in fake weariness as he shook his head and shrugged before continuing.
"...Still, don't let it be said that I leave things half-done. If you wish, I can go there and see if there's any trace of what happened."
"Peh! You would go there even if I did not wish it." Serevin hissed as he turned his head to stare down his pale visitor.
"Gehehehe... You've come to know me so well, Serevin-san~" Urashiki said with a playful chuckle as he turned to leave through a now open portal, before Serevin once again spoke.
"One thing before you leave, Urashiki."
"Hm? Yes, Serevin-san?" Urashiki turned to reply, dropping his smiling expression, now that he was genuinely intrigued by Serevin's newest query.
"Tell me, why would a Celestial such as yourself aid us in our cause? It is my understanding that your kind and demons do not mix, so why help us restore the 'Exalted Ones' to power?"
"..."
There was a moment of surprise upon Urashiki's features, before then turning to that of amusement, and then his smile becoming more cunning as he turned back to the portal. He then spoke in an aloof manner as he replied.
"Hmm... Well, if I were to put this into words, I would say that this world is like unto a garden. And as you may know, a garden needs to be properly tended to with skilled caretakers, so that it can become fertile... Yes, I'd say that's a good way of putting it~"
"Hmph! Cryptic as always, but no matter. Report to me what you find once you are finished."
"Hai, hai~! Until next time, Serevin-san." Urashiki casually said as he waved farewell, and then stepped into his portal, disappearing from sight.
Once again, blessed silence filled his private chambers as Serevin Masters enjoyed his tea. But his mind kept turning away from his work, and back to his latest visitor. It had been less than 6-months since this "Urashiki Ōtsutsuki" appeared before him, offering his help in their goals. His only price being information on their world, as well as the odd trinket or magic item from time-to-time...
And now more than ever, he had the distinct sense that he was using them as much as he was using him. Though for what he could not say. The pale Celestial often spoke in riddles, with the only clue he had as to his motives was something he mumbled to himself called a, "Divine Tree". It was the faintest whisper said to himself in idle though, as Serevin had certain rooms rigged with magic items that transmitted spoken words directly to him via his own magic item.
It was in this way he kept tabs on his people and "guests", so no secret inside these walls could remain so for long. Despite this however, the Celestial remained an obnoxious enigma. There were often texts and stories from the blasphemous Temples of the Four and Six Great Gods of trickster deities that would set good against evil, often for their own amusement. It was only in his dealings with Urashiki that he began to give those myths any weight.
'Hmph! It's of no matter. Be they mortal or immortal, monster or god, I will use any and all means at my disposal. My family's long cherished goal of reviving the Demon God WILL be fulfilled. No matter the cost!'
...
*A/N: SHIT! Its been HOW LONG since my last upload?! Yeeesh...Sorry for the LONG wait true believers. IRL/vo-tech college has been eating up my time and draining my energy something fierce. I can only hope that with the holidays coming up I'll have more time to get another chapter out. We'll see what happens. Until then, everyone take care out there, stay healthy, and see you next time~! ^_^*