*A/N: Okay, starting with Author's Notes to address a few complaints I received last chapter. Namely, the introduction of Urashiki Ōtsutsuki. Some complaints revolved around the idea that he's, "not a Naruto character". A flawed argument. Urashiki was conceptualized and designed by Naruto's author, Masashi Kishimoto. Also, as for where in the Naruto universe timeline he originates, it's before Momoshiki and Kinshiki even arrive on Madara's original homeworld. Thus, Urashiki is "off the reservation", as he's always had his own agenda. A trait that hasn't changed. In fact, his discovery of the NW has only solidified that. Speaking of which, the passage of time between Overlord's and Naruto's worlds aren't exactly 1-to-1, so in the time Madara arrived in the New World, years have gone by there. I hope that's cleared up any issues. Now, on to our regularly scheduled programming...*
...
CHAPTER 17-Movement on the Board
The members of Unity Four sat patiently on one side of a rectangular table in a medium-sized meeting room in the Adventurer's Guild, having been summoned by the guildmaster, Ameillia Grann. It had been 1-week since the end of the Demonic Disturbance, and the city was still in the process of picking up the pieces.
An entire section of the city was left in shambles, and reconstruction of buildings, housing, and other infrastructure was still ongoing. Although the process had been slowed considerably by the loss of enormous amounts of wealth and resources at the hands of the demons. It was suggested that they simply seized everything in sight in their search, rather than comb through all they came across.
Though that was little consolation for those that lost everything that night. And that was before mentioning the casualties. Many city-guardsmen and low to mid-ranked adventurers lost their lives that night. Most of which Lakyus' resurrection magic would not work on. Then there were the missing citizens, with the latest count placing them at nearly 100,000. Though some held out hope, it was silently accepted that none would be found alive.
In other words, between manpower and material, the capital had been severally weakened. It was little wonder then that it was taking longer than expected for reconstruction to truly begin in earnest. Of course, problems caused in the aftermath of the demonic attack did not end there. The population had become increasingly hostile towards the already disliked nobles who tucked tail and hid themselves away during the attack.
Already whispers of civil unrest was making its way through the capital, and the only things that kept such resentments from boiling over into full-fledged riots were two key events. First, the Adventurer's Guild had won itself popular support and acclaim by the people as their protectors and defenders. It did not matter if they were lowly Copper or Iron-ranked; they were treated like heroes, with Momon of Darkness hailed as a hero among heroes among them.
Second, is the fact that while the majority of the nobles locked themselves away like frightened children, word of Third Princess Renner's sponsorship and support of the guild, as well as her brother Prince Zanac and her father the King taking the field to protect the capital had likewise won popular support. The people loved them for it, and in turn it helped to keep them from rioting through the streets.
Of course, the arrogant and deluded nobles could not appreciate how tenuous their situation was. This was only exacerbated when said nobles refused to support the reconstruction efforts, due to the capital falling under the King's demesne. In other words, they used the hardships and suffering of the people in their ever-persistent power struggles. A short-sighted strategy that backfired, giving the King and his Royal Faction even more popular support and strength.
As the three human members of Unity Four thought on some of these issues, the guildmaster strode in without preamble, prompting the gold-ranked team to stand in response.
"Oh, please, do sit back down. No need to stand up on my account. We've all been keeping busy this past week." She said and gestured in a friendly manner.
"Thank you, guildmaster. Although I must say, you seem to be doing well despite current events." Nigel replied in a respectful, cordial tone.
"Yes, thank you for noticing Nigel. Though I confess, I can't remember the last time it has been this busy in the guild. Hehe..." Ameillia Grann said with a weary chuckle as she took a seat to the side of the table's end, and a female red-headed guild receptionist walked in carrying four brown colored envelopes.
"...Ahem~! Well, that's enough small talk for now. As you pointed out, things are busy, and will continue to be for quite some time. After our meeting here, there will be another immediately after." She then said in a more professional tone.
"Um, excuse me guildmaster, but the summons that brought us here didn't really clarify why we were summoned." Suvi politely interjected with a raised hand.
"Well, there's a reason for that, my dear..."
Ameillia then motioned for the red-headed receptionist to hand out the envelopes. With a nod the receptionist did as signaled, smoothly moving from one person to the next as she passed them out. Denys gave her a small smirk and wink when she got to him, who only replied with a "Hmph~!", and dismissive head-snap. Although her reddened cheeks told a different tale.
Completing her task, she gave a crisp bow to the guildmaster before promptly exiting the room. There was a weary chuckle and sigh from Ameillia as she shook her head and spoke in ironic humor.
"I swear, as subtle as you keep your antics Denys, it still amazes me that you can be such a 'ladies-man'."
"...!"
Nigel and Suvi froze as stiff as a board in shock, worried at the implications of the guildmaster knowing about Denys' off-hour antics. As per usual, Mortis seemed indifferent, whilst Denys himself awkwardly rubbed the back of his head and chuckled as he spoke in a matching tone.
"Hehe... An' 'ere I thought I was bein' discreet. Buuuut I shoulda' guessed nothin' escapes the guildmaster's eye."
"Indeed. Very little that happens in this guild escapes my notice. Still, as you said you've been discreet. No one seemed to be hurt, quite the opposite in fact, and it hadn't disrupted guild operations, so I allowed it to continue." Ameillia said with a cunning smirk and tone.
There was a sigh of relief from Nigel and Suvi at their guildmaster's patience and understanding in Denys' "extracurricular" activities. Although in an instant that look of relief was suddenly replaced with wide-eyed worry as they turned to him with expressions that clearly said to any with experience in reading body-language, "DON'T!"
"So then~! Would da' guildmaster care ta' see for 'erself just how 'skilled' I am?" Denys said in confident mischief, to which a hearty "Hah~!" escaped the guildmaster before dismissively replying in amusement.
"Sorry to disappoint you young man, but you're not my type. I prefer my men to be a little older and have more meat on their bones."
"Oh~! Well, can't blame me fer tryin'... Ack~!"
Before Denys could embarrass them any further, Suvi next to him smacked him upon the back of his head as Nigel contritely spoke.
"Ahem! I-I do apologize for that, guildmaster. Perhaps we can move on to the business at hand and forget this conversation ever happened?"
"Hm. Indeed. Then let us start by opening the envelope in front of you." She replied in a warm, proud tone.
They each silently did as instructed, even as Denys rubbed the back of his head in discomfort. It was assumed by them that this would when they would receive their expected promotion to Platinum-plate. However, to their mutual shock and surprise, what they saw was not that, but the plate and documentation authorizing their immediate promotion to Orichalcum!
"Wha-?! What da' hells?!" Denys exclaimed in open shock.
*THA-WACK!*
"Ow~! Would'ya stop hittin' me?!"
"Quiet~! You're making a scene." Suvi said after she smacked him again, though she and Nigel shared in his surprise.
"Ahem! P-Pardon the disruption guildmaster, but I think Denys' reaction is a fair one. May I ask what prompted such a leap in our promotion?"
Nigel professionally asked the question that was on all their minds, despite still shaken by this latest development. At this there was a cunning smirk from Guildmaster Ameillia Grann that frankly unnerved them before she replied in relaxed tone.
"I think your achievements during the recent crisis speak for themselves, Nigel. You held the line against a large horde of demons, covering the escape and saving the lives of many of your fellow adventurers, civilians, and even city-guards. You fought longer and harder than anyone should have expected you to. And then there was Blue Rose..."
"Blue Rose, guildmaster?" Nigel asked in confusion.
"Why, yes. One of their number witnessed your team take down a pair of those powerful 'Scale Demons' that a few of their number encountered with the Warrior-Captain. The way I hear it, even Princess Renner's bodyguard Climb and Brain Unglaus took one down. So I wonder why you never mentioned such an achievement that rivals theirs.~"
"..."
There was only silence as Ameillia Grann's gaze took on a steely, intense edge that made them remember that she herself was a veteran Mythril-ranked adventurer with many battles to her own name. It was true that they omitted such an encounter from their reports, and now their omission had been caught. Just as they collectively started to worry, she merely smiled warmly as she once again spoke in a friendly tone.
"Such modest individuals, and almost to a fault. You worried that without witnesses, no one would have believed you, correct?"
"Y-Yes. That's why we never said anything." Nigel quickly replied, holding back a sigh of relief the guildmaster came to conclusions that was in-line with her perceptions of them.
"Well, you needn't worry. I quite understand. We've had other adventurers make some wild claims and, in some cases, overinflate their achievements from that night. So it warms my heart to see you and yours not try the same. As for the matter of your rather large jump in promotion, it's not just because of your own efforts."
"I beg your pardon, guildmaster?"
"I'll be frank with you. You've earned that much. We lost many promising adventurers that night. Some couldn't be revived by Lakyus of Blue Rose. Although that girl has worked diligently to revive as many as possible, thanks to the Crown's financial backing, some could not be brought back. Even those she did will need time to rebuild the strength they lost from their revival."
"Ah, I see. You're using this to quickly bolster the guild's strength and position, isn't that right guildmaster?" Suvi quickly interjected.
"Very good, young lady. Yes, that's correct."
"Eh? I don't follow." Denys said in confusion.
"Will you get your head out of your trousers, Denys?! The guild, much like the rest of this city, is in a weakened state. In order to help fund the guild, and in turn the reconstruction efforts, the guild MUST be able to continue operating as it had before. You think the number of requests has gone down...? No! If anything, they might've increased, and it'll hurt our image if we can't keep up. Isn't that right?" Suvi quickly and earnestly said.
"Hm, quite right. We'll need to bolster our strength and image for the people and our clients. Thankfully we've gotten some new recruits to take care of some of the menial low-ranked jobs, but it's the other higher-ranked ones that we need to be able to complete. Thankfully, many other teams received promotions, thanks to the lair-bellups they achieved from fighting so many strong demons. So yours, while unusual, will be just one of many." Ameillia Grann replied in a business-like tone.
"Does this have something to do with the other meeting you mentioned after this one?" Nigel contemplatively asked, catching on to where this was going.
"Ah, I'm glad to see that your sister is not the only quick-witted one in the group..." Ameillia jokingly teased before continuing.
"...In any case, you will agree that the nature of the request required this kind of promotion. Especially when your team was requested by name."
"B-By name, guildmaster?" Nigel asked in confusion.
"Yes. It seems your names have been on almost as many lips as the likes of Blue Rose and Darkness. I will have the client step in and brief you on the job, once you have signed your papers and donned your new plates."
"O-Oh! Certainly."
With that the team quickly did as instructed, placing their old plates in the envelopes as they gave themselves a moment to bask in their moment of achievement. A moment cut short as the guildmaster rang a small bell from her hip pouch. They recognized it as a magic item that rang an identical bell elsewhere, likely signaling a receptionist to bring their next client in to speak with them.
A few moments later, the receptionist brought in a pair of beautiful ladies that left the three human members of Unity Four breathless. The first possessed fiery-red hair, smooth coco-brown skin, and wore a form-fitting, purple-colored dress with gold trim, high-collar, and long sleeves. While showing no skin, it still left very little to the imagination. Unknown to all, this was the disguised Hilma Cygnaeus, striding in with a warm, seductive smile. (A/N:CH.16)
The second was the bodyguard, wearing brown-colored light-armor with black vestments that one would expect a Rogue-type like Denys to wear. Her head was covered by a brown hood, exposing only the front of her face, keeping her beauty for all to see. She had clear light vanilla skin that looked as if it had never seen the sun once in her life.
Her lips bore a glossy sheen from the gray-blue lipstick that glistened in the sun's rays from a nearby window. A color complimenting her piercing icy-blue eyes that scanned the room with an attentive edge reminding one of a predator looking for pray. The left-side of her beautiful visage was framed by raven-black hair so dark, it seemed to suck in all light from the room.
Completing her "dangerous beauty" look, was a set of six curved swords horizontally sheathed on her back, with another pair on either side of her waist. How anyone would be able to use so many swords at once was a mystery, but those with experience could rightfully assume magic was involved. This was the disguised form of former Six Arms member, Edström.
As Hilma sat at the head of the table, with Edström dutifully standing guard to her right, she removed and lit a long, thin pipe from a purse hanging from her right-shoulder. This didn't seem to bother the guildmaster as she professionally spoke.
"Team Unity Four, may I present to you Lady Shauna Gilmore of the Dragon Kingdom, with her personal bodyguard, Allura."
"How do you do, my lady. My name is Nigel Tvenstrup, the team's leader. These are my teammates, my sister Suvi, with our ranger Denys Shkoda, and the wall of our team..." Nigel cordially began, introducing everyone in turn before being interrupted by, "Shauna Gilmore".
"...Mortis. It's been a while~ Aren't you going to greet an old acquaintance?" She said with a mischievous smile.
"...!"
Nigel and the others were surprised by her being so familiar with Mortis, who merely folded his arms with a huff, speaking in a sardonic tone.
"Hrmph~! Still the same as ever I see. Expecting courtesies where none are needed."
"Heh-heh... And I see you're still as taciturn as ever..." She replied in aloof manner, before cordially addressing the others.
"Ah, pardon me. Mortis and I are previously acquainted associates who have worked together in the past. As you are no doubt aware, he's a man of few words." She went on to explain with a light chuckle.
"Is that so? Then I suppose that makes introductions simpler." The guildmaster commented matter-of-factly.
The human members of Unity Four expressed collective "ohs" and "ahs" of comprehension, as Denys smiled mischievously. He then winched in discomfort as Nigel and Suvi glared him down, silencing whatever comments were brewing on his tongue. To this "Shauna" simply smiled, fully aware of the "connection" they shared, before moving on with a friendly, yet earnest tone.
"Well, as much as I would love to catch up with and gossip about old acquaintances in-front of his comrades, the reason for my being here should be explained. You see, I am the manager of the Fire-Leaf Concern. I arrange the flow of goods and such into my home the Dragon Kingdom. As you may be aware, it is being invaded by the savage Beastman Country, and so we've had to add 'defense contracting' to the services we provide. To that end, I'd like to hire your team to help in our beleaguered Kingdom's defense. Will you lend your strength to our cause?"
To say the human members of Unity Four were stunned would be an understatement. They were frankly speechless at the proposition. The guildmaster did not seem surprised, meaning that she was aware of the request beforehand. Meanwhile, the disguised Hilma watched as the three young people bounced her request around in their minds.
She had crafted the fiction of being an associate of Mortis' beforehand to establish history and familiarity from the outset. With this method, it would quickly dispense with any questions on how she knew of them, since the average person would just assume that she knew of them due to that relationship.
As for the "Fire-Leaf Concern", it was frankly a dummy operation she long ago established to connect her operations in the Empire with the Dragon Kingdom. Although with a suggestion from her master, it was renamed, and new resources were poured into it, after she and the revived Six Arms had collected what they could from those stashes that the rest of Eight Fingers knew nothing about.
Within the span of a week, operations and influence had grown considerably within the Dragon Kingdom. Of course, due to the weakened nature of the Kingdom, establishing a presence there was all too easy. Truly, if it wasn't for the beastman invasion, it could provide fertile ground for an even greater expansion. Especially with the wealth the Deep Darkness Dragon Lord behind the "Mortis" persona provided.
Honestly, when she initially met the Dragon Lord face-to-face, she was scared out of her wits. Though with time she was able to collect herself, and interactions with his proxy seemed far more tame by comparison. Although the dragon did not care much for her, they did work well together, which was an added surprise to be sure.
"As you know, the Adventurer's Guild normally doesn't take part in a country's wider events, such as wars and internal disputes. Of course, as our sister branch in the Dragon Kingdom has done, exceptions are made for those threats that endangers humanity as a whole. Such as our most recent crisis with the Demonic Disturbance. So, if Unity Four wishes to aid you in this endeavor, I have no reason to object." The guildmaster professionally interjected.
"I see... Still, before I accept this job on behalf of my team, I do have some questions, if you would be so kind." Nigel said in a soft, yet firm tone as he gave "Shauna" his undivided attention.
"Oh, certainly~! I would be more than happy to answer any question you may have to ease your minds." She sweetly replied.
"I understand you scouting us, due to your prior relationship with our teammate Mortis, but will we be working with others? I'm sure that you understand that one adventurer team is not going to change the course of an entire war."
"Hm~! Yes, that is a fair question. To answer, we are scouting all sorts of talent to help in our Kingdom's defense. Anyone who may be of use to us from workers, mercenaries, independent fighters, and of course adventurers like yourselves, are being recruited to the cause. Although no one else from this Kingdom."
"Pardon? We're the only ones from Re-Estize?"
"Indeed, that is so... Ah, I can see your confusion, so allow me to explain. While we did indeed plan to recruit more people here, once we learned of your recent troubles, we had to weigh the possibilities of being able to do so with the coin we brought with us, with how our request would be received by this country's strongest. Take Blue Rose for example. As I understand it, they are quite... patriotic, and loyal to the Re-Estize Kingdom. Most especially to Princess Renner if my information is correct. So recruiting them would be highly unlikely~."
"..."
While Ameillia Grann expertly hid it, the guildmaster was none-too-pleased with Shauna's aloof tone. It hinted at their newest client being either aware of Blue Rose's activities, or at the very least rumors, but had the sense to keep it to herself. While their initial meeting gave a reserved sense of positivity of spreading the guild's reputation, along with the budding adventurers she helped support, this latest exchange revealed a cunning in this woman she failed to see until it was too late, and doing anything about it now would have negative repercussions.
"So that means you're trying to recruit talented individuals from as many different pools as possible, isn't that right?" Suvi politely interjected.
"Yes, that's correct young lady." The disguised Hilma replied in a friendly tone.
"Oi, um, 'cuse me for interruptin', but what 'bout Teams Darkness and Red Drop? Wouldn't they be useful?" Denys asked in curiosity, surprising his teammates with such a thoughtful query.
"Oh, quite right young man~. But as I said, we must weigh the likelihood of they accepting, with any losses in trying. Team Darkness, as I understand it, has risen to prominence quite quickly in this country and have even earned the Crown's praise and gratitude. It is highly unlikely they would distance themselves from such success without compensation that we are sadly not able to grant. As for Red Drop, they base themselves in this country's north, regularly taking jobs in the Argland Council State. To be frank, simply getting into contact with them would incur a loss in time and resources that we can ill afford to spend, uncertain as to what may result."
Those present had to admit that the logic behind her reasoning made perfect sense. Why waste resources pursuing unlikely avenues of assistance when more sure bets would suffice? In this case Team Unity Four, whose star was ever on the rise, seemed a safer and a far more economical bet than any of the three Adamantite-ranked teams in the Re-Estize Kingdom. With that and the potential benefits in mind, it took only a moment for Nigel to make his decision.
"Well, if the guildmaster has no objections, depending on the pay, I am open to us accepting the job. Speaking of which..." He began when "Shauna" raised a hand to forestall the question.
Nodding to her bodyguard "Allura", the disguised Edström walked over to Nigel, handing him a light-brown envelope before returning to the disguised Hilma's side. Opening the envelope, Nigel's eyes widened in surprise. A reaction shared by the human trio before Mortis forcefully did a throat-clearing noise to get their attention.
"Well, leader? Care to share with the rest of us what's in the envelope? Since we can't see it."
"A-Ah, r-right! My apologies."
They were all internally thankful that Mortis caught on to them, so they could more believably act the way a "normal" team should. Handing the paper to Mortis, he took only a moment to look over it before letting out a stoic "Hmph!". Passing it on to Denys, he did an impressed whistling sound, before passing it onto Suvi, who sputtered in surprise, before looking towards her brother, who once again began speaking in a surprised tone.
"I have to say, this type of pay is most... generous. Ahem! This is the sort of pay I think an Adamantite-ranked team would receive."
"Oh, that is true, but your pay is calculated to cover not only hiring you, but whatever expenses you may encounter during your stay. After all, you will be heading into a warzone.~" Shauna replied in amusement at their reactions.
"..."
Indeed, her words made a great deal of sense. If nothing beyond their pay was given to them, they would need this kind of pay to cover for their needs. Although both the guildmaster and they assumed that the generous pay was a means to incentivize them to not only accept, but to remain committed to the Dragon Kingdom's cause.
"Well? May I assume that we have an accord?" Shauna asked with a friendly tone and smile, snapping Nigel's attention back to her.
"Um, yes! We most certainly do."
Another warm, yet pleased smile spread over Shauna's purple-glossed lips as she extinguished her pipe, put it away, and gracefully stood up from her seat, with everyone else following suit as she cordially spoke.
"Excellent~. I am pleased that we were able to reach an agreement. Further instruction can be found in that envelope, and I look forward to working with you all."
"Likewise, madam."
"Oh, please, Nigel. No need to be so formal~. You and yours may simply call me, 'Shauna'. Now, I must be on my way. Do take care of them, Mortis." She said in a friendly, casual manner as she lightly waved her farewells to an indifferent Avatar, and the stunned humans of the team.
Opening the door for her charge, "Allura" followed her superior out of the meeting room, and then the building itself later as they climbed into an awaiting carriage. Crossing her legs and smiling in satisfaction, Hilma spoke in a more aloof manner as she opened a nearby cabinet and poured herself a small glass of wine.
"I must say, they are a fine group of young people, don't you think?"
"Hmph. What do I care?" Edström dismissively snorted.
"Oh, come now. Even you must admit that they will make some fine additions to the people we've been gathering. Or are you still bitter about your present circumstances?"
"...!"
A deadly glare was levied towards the disguised Hilma that normally would have paralyzed the average person with fear. However, since Hilma held Edström's "leash", it was little more than impotent anger. Something Hilma herself knew as she continued smiling, pleased with herself as their carriage continued to their next destination, before Edström derisively looked away.
"Cheh! It's not like you can understand what it's like. Existing in a body like this. Being able to taste food and drink, but feeling no satisfaction from it. To move a body that feels neither pain nor pleasure. It's abhorrent. And here you are, flaunting the things I can't enjoy anymore."
"Oh, my~! You're being uncharacteristically honest with me and yourself today. Although, if we are being honest, isn't that entirely your fault?" Hilma mockingly retorted, further stoking Edström's anger as she seethed through gritted teeth.
"What was that?!"
"No~? Think about it, my dear. You muscle-heads of Six Arms, so concerned with your image, that you utterly failed to investigate those you were antagonizing, and paid the price for it. If I was there dealing with that situation, perhaps I would have noticed something not quite right, and stopped you fools from poking a dragon with a stick. Ah, but alas, I wasn't there, and Eight Fingers as we knew it is no more. Thanks to you reckless fools."
There was a cracking sound as Edström clench her fists so tightly that they popped her bones and would have bled her palms, if her skin did not restore itself as quickly as it happened. As much as she hated to admit it, Hilma was right. They were arrogant fools, so sure of themselves that they led each other to their own deaths. She could still remember her last moments in vivid, disturbing detail...
Her head rolling on the ground as her body, her wonderful body, fell, and she gasped like a fish before being consigned to oblivion. Everything after was a blur of dark, disjointed, and even more disturbing imagery. Whatever awaited her on the "other side", she had the distinct feeling that she did not want to revisit it.
So when the fog cleared and her next clear memory was coming back in Madara's summoning chamber, despite how much she hated this new body, there was a clear sense of relief. Even if the realization that her life was misspent chilled her to her core. Something she had not shared with anyone. Not even the smug bitch that was now in-charge of her. Whose facial expression strangely softened as she downed the rest of her wine in a single gulp.
"Well, if we're trying to be honest, our master saved us both from terrible fates. For you, it was to die forgotten, and for me, torture most gruesome, and servitude to monsters."
"What... do you mean?" Edström asked in curiosity.
"Our master found a moment to enthrall one of Eight Fingers' leaders, whom described types of torture that would make any of our torturers seem as if they were amateurs in comparison..."
Hilma then shuddered as she hugged herself in a moment of terror and vulnerability that frankly shocked Edström. The Hilma she knew had ordered the deaths and torture of many people herself. Even more suffered miserable fates after becoming addicted to the illicit drugs she distributed. So whatever she learned of the fates of their former comrades in Eight Fingers had quite the sobering effect on her.
In that moment, Hilma shook her head whilst biting her lower lip, as if to dispel what terrible images were forming in her mind. Clearing her throat, she retrieved another glass and poured herself more wine, and filled the other glass as she handed it to an even further shocked Edström.
"I will not pretend to know or understand what you're going through Edström, but when we get back, do take the time to read our master's reports on what happened to them. Maybe then you can appreciate that as bad as your fate was, it could always be worse. Much, much worse."
There was a deathly serious edge to Hilma's voice and expression that frankly shook Edström to her core. Along with the realization that Hilma had been given an account of what could have been her fate, if their newest master had not been there to recruit her. A sardonic chuckle then escaped her lips as the irony finally dawned on her, and for the first time, she smiled.
"Then... here's to better fates."
"Yes, I can drink to that." Hilma agreed with a now more friendly tone and smile.
They clinked their glasses together in a toast of solidarity and budding friendship as they finally reached a type of mutual understanding for their respective situations. Now perhaps, working together might not be as bad as Edström had initially thought...
...
Meditating in what has become his training chamber, Madara was still as he mentally took stock of current events. His operations have been proceeding smoothly, and yet he was filled with a disquiet he could not place. This was a feeling he had when he felt that he had missed something. He had one of his clones interrogate one of the heads of Eight Fingers with its [Sharingan], in the hopes that this feeling was related to that.
Indeed, the testimony of their torture at Nazarick's hands was quite disturbing and brutal. Not that was enough to move him, even if it was distasteful in the extreme, and showed a clear picture of what was to happen to those who opposed that den of monsters. Still, that did not seem like what was bothering him so. No, something else gnawed at his keen instincts. As if he had missed something important. Something vital. Something not quite right in the world...
"Pardon the intrusion, milord?"
He was suddenly drawn away from his thoughts as Lottus entered the room, still bowing as Madara's shining eyes opened with his [Sharingan] fully active. It was quite the interesting change since he had been constantly absorbing the magically charged powers of the panoply he recovered from the Deep Darkness Dragon Lord's treasury.
Its energies were not only empowering him, but were giving him additional attributes, such as an increased magic resistance he did not possess when he first arrived in this world. Or one of the items in his panoply that ensured that his already sharp vision would not be hindered by environmental or magical obstructions. Not even night's darkness was a hinderance to his sight.
While the raw power was inferior compared to when he was Jinchūriki to the Ten-Tails, he had to admit the other additional benefits were pleasing. Benefits that increased the longer he kept the panoply on. The only times he ever removed it was when he bathed, since due to its magical nature, sleeping with it on wasn't the least bit uncomfortable.
"Yes, Lottus. What is it?" Madara stoically answered.
"Pardon the interruption, milord. Thy wished to be notified when Hilma hath succeeded in gaining the young ones' support in the Dragon Kingdom?"
"Ah, yes. That is well. Their growth should increase even further in that war, and should prove even more useful in the times ahead."
"Quite right, milord. Though perchance, thou shalt be pleased in hearing that their growth hath seen a sharp increase since fighting the demons in the capital. Dy'vom reports that his Avatar's last training session with them has seen in them marked improvement. He surmises that if they continue training with it, and fighting in the coming conflict, they could eclipse Adamantite-ranked Adventurers err long." Lottus declared in a clear, albeit reserved excitement in his tone.
"Is that so? Then perhaps it is time for me to make myself known to others while Hilma recruits more to the cause." Madara stoically mused.
"Others, milord? Perchance, you are speaking of Blue Roses?"
"Quite. When the time is right, one of my clones will 'introduce' themselves, when the Princess sends them on one of her undocumented quests."
"Ah, very good milord~! I'm certain that Hilma will be gladdened to hear that her former thorns in her side will join our ranks. I'm sure the irony will be most amusing to her." Lottus said in good humor.
"Hmph. Speaking of whom, she has already used one of my clones to transport her group to the Empire, so our expeditionary force there is almost complete. Also, have Benkei and Dorian received their latest comrade?"
"Yes indeed, milord. I must say, 'tis extraordinary that thy hath discovered the final resting place of the fabled 'Runesmith King' of dwarven lore." Lottus exclaimed in barely reserved awe.
"Umu... All I did was follow the patterns and clues left behind from the stories of their journeys with the rest of the Thirteen Heroes, and cross-referenced them with the stories told by today's bards. Most of the latter are distorted by centuries of embellishment, but enough common details were left to have my clones follow a trail. Once they sensed the magical aura of his weapon and gear, finding his final resting place was child's play." Madara dismissively explained.
"Ah, still 'tis an incredible feat, milord! Though if I may be so bold, it appears that thy lordship seemed... displeased?" Lottus quizzically mused with a slight head-tilt.
To this Madara perked a brow as he turned to regard the undead Night Lich. His countenance was passive and stoic, but there was a hint of pride in his tone as he spoke.
"Hm... Impressive that you were able to ascertain that much, Lottus. There are those that would struggle to gain a grasp of my true feelings."
"I-I beg your pardon if I gave offense, milord~! 'Tis just... After being in your company for so long, I hath gained a sensitivity how your 'chakra' flows around you." Lottus quickly and apologetically said with a bow.
"Oh? This is the first I've heard of this."
"I did not mean to deceive, milord. 'Tis something I hath only recently become aware of, and can only surmise that mine sensitivity to thy power as an undead is responsible for mine insight. Of course, only the time spent in your company hath allowed that sensitivity to form."
"I see... Hm? Rise, Lottus. I am not displeased at you. Nor would I think you foolish enough to try to deceive me. In fact, this new information may even prove useful in the future."
"I thank milord for his magnanimity." Lottus replied with reverence as he rose from his bow.
"Hmph... You have proven your loyalty Lottus, so dispense with the submissive posturing." Madara stoically huffed.
"A-As thy wish, milord."
"Good. Now then, inform me if there are any further developments. I must continue to coordinate my clones in the field. I would have them seek out and find more of the 'Thirteen Heroes' before operations in the Dragon Kingdom begin."
"It shalt be done."
As Lottus dutifully left the chamber, Madara continued his meditations, mentally linking himself with his clones in the field, and again that feeling of disquiet persisted. It vexed him almost as much as someone standing behind him, and in that moment an epiphany struck him like a bolt from the blue. Something else was moving in this world, and it was not Nazarick. No, there was more afoot than he and the Great Tomb of Nazarick...
...
There was nothing but darkness to be seen as the steady rhythm of water droplets could be heard echoing off the earthen stone walls of an empty cave. The site of Clone-Madara's slaughter of the Evil Deity worshipping cult had long been picked clean, leaving nothing behind but a feeling of dread that no one should intrude upon this place. Not even the wild monsters and beasts dared enter this space, for their very instincts screamed at them to stay away...
And yet, something in the darkness stirred as space/time itself twisted and bent apart, and a shadowy figured casually stepped out of the rift. A figure that playfully hummed to itself as a red-colored light began to emit from a rod in its right-hand, revealing the albino features of one Urashiki Ōtsutsuki. As he surveyed the area, he casually strolled along with his [Byakugan] active, before stopping upon the spot where the sealed Evil Deity once stood and smirked.
"Well, well, well~! Isn't this the surprise? Do my eyes deceive? I come here to find out what had happened to my latest plaything, only to find a layer of chakra holding the glorified demon down. And here I thought chakra didn't exist in this world~."
His tone was equal parts surprised and elated at his unexpected discovery as he knelt to inspect the ground with this left-hand. Urashiki's toothy grin would have been unnerving for any who saw it as bulging veins on the sides of his eyes pulsed with energy.
"Ooooh, my~! Such potent chakra~! If I didn't know any better, I would think that one of the clan did this... Hmm... No, it's different enough to where that's not possible... Well, no matter~! Time to undo this and get my plans back underway."
Getting back to his feet, Urashiki twirled his "fishing rod" above his head once before plunging it into the ground. His wide grin positively brimmed with anticipation, but it was erased with an expression of shock as he withdrew it from the ground. That shock was replaced with a more contemplative expression as he looked upon the ground and knelt again.
Taking a more analytical posture, he took a few more moments longer to inspect it before a look of understanding crossed his features. His hand then dove into the stone as if it were made of mud, and after a few moments more a spark of electricity wracked his hand in pain as he withdrew his smoking hand. Displeasure soured his countenance, followed by a cautious edge to his features and voice as he stood up.
"I thought it was impossible, but I'm certain. This... is a sealing Jutsu. Someone from Kaguya's assignment world is here... Cheh! Someone strong too. This pattern... Whoever weaved this is good. Such a bother...! Hmm... What to do...? I can't bring someone else in from the clan. Otherwise, the whole plan goes up in smoke..."
Urashiki clicked his tongue as he casually draped his chakra-rod over his shoulder and hummed in thought. Truly, it displeased him that his plans for this world had been delayed like this, and now with another obstacle thrown in his way. Although he wondered at how someone from the other world ended up in this one.
While it was essentially a fluke that he found a pathway into this world, it wasn't inconceivable that someone else did so before or after him. The latter seemed unlikely, since he covered his tracks well enough to conceal his activities from even his own people. But given how this seal was potent enough to reject even his attempts to remove it, he was not going to discount the possibility out-of-hand.
Still, that left the lingering problem of how to dispel this seal. It was a short list of those who could who weren't of his clan... But then, it suddenly hit him, and a devilish smile crept over his lips as he cradled his chin with his left-hand.
"Wait, now... Maybe not someone directly connected to our clan, but someone close enough. And someone experienced in dealing with Jutsu at that... Hah~! This should be interesting. Just need to be careful with my timing... Wait for me now, Toneri-dono...~"
With a laugh, Urashiki hopped backwards into an open portal, vanishing into the dark as his laughter echoes off the cave's walls. Giving a grim portent of things to come...
...
*CLANG*CRASH*BOOM!*
Within the Great Tomb of Nazarick's 6th-Floor Amphitheater, a dazzling display of puissant might was displayed as Shalltear Bloodfallen bobbed and weaved throug blindingly fast volleys of weapon strikes from Cocytus. The latter's under-set of arms wielded an identical set of thick clubs similar to kanabōs for both knockback and defense, whilst his upper arms held the [God Slaying Emperor Blade] in his right, and his [Decapitation Fang] in his left.
During this exchange, Shalltear was clearly on the backfoot. It was all she could do to defend herself from the Insectoid's ferocious onslaught. Whenever she tried to create distance, he pressed the attack, and when she attempted a counterattack, his four-pronged attack angles combined with the skilled use of his tail as a fifth avenue of offense and defense kept her from doing anything but hold on for dear unlife.
*CLANG!*
"Keh~! Finally! [Force Explo-]"
"AS IF I'D LET YOU!"
"Graaah! AGAIN?!"
For one precious moment, Shalltear managed to create an opening in which to cast a spell, only for Coctyus to charge again, stopping her spell in its tracks. It was a scene that had played out several times already, and frankly it was annoying her to no end. The way he kept pressing the attack, giving her no room to maneuver, was infuriating. Though she resolved to maintain her composure. As long as Coctyus didn't land a telling blow, she was still in this contest.
"Ooora~!"
Deftly wielding her [Spuit Lance], she met all of Cocytus' attacks head-on, using it for not only thrusting, but also swiping, blocking, and striking. Truly, she had mastered the use of her weapon, it becoming a very real extension of herself. Cocytus had to admit that it was all he could do to keep her from going on the offensive. She wasn't the strongest Floor Guardian in name alone.
Although he was the superior warrior, it was her raw power that was the real threat. So this exchange was meant to mentally wear the other other down. Sooner or later, one would buckle under the strain, and risk tipping the scales in their favor. It was simply a question of who would risk making the first move, and land the countermove to decide the victor.
"Gaaah! Enough~!"
Shalltear's frustrated bellow seemed to confirm Cocytus' suspicions as he prepared himself for whatever she could have been planning. He readied an attack [Skill] he was building up towards as he unleashed its full power upon her...
"[Acalanātha Strike]!"
"[...]!"
*BOOM!*
The full force of his [Skill] created a blastwave of displace air, ice, and dirt, outwardly exploding all around them, obscuring everything from sight. Meanwhile, overlooking events in the stands was Ainz Ooal Gown, with the rest of the Floor Guardians seated to his left, sans Victim and Gargantua, along with Pandora's Actor, and Sebas Tian.
All of the NPCs sported visible signs of having been in combat, from Albedo in scuffed armor, to the Dark Elf twins sweating and drinking water from tall glasses with fatigued expressions, it was clear that this scenario had played itself out beyond just Shalltear and Cocytus below. The duo that were now hidden from their sight in the aftermath of Cycotus' latest attack.
"Ainz-sama, I do believe this exercise may be nearing its end." Demiurge analytically said as he pushed his glasses up.
"Umu... I do believe you are correct." Ainz sagely acknowledged as he stroked his bony chin with his left-hand, whilst gripping the [Staff of Ainz Ooal Gown] in his right.
"S-Shalltear-san's really having t-trouble with Cocytus-san." Mare timidly observed as he sipped his drink.
"Eh~? Yeah, she is. Will fake-tits really be able to pull that off?" Aura asked in naked doubt.
"Mein Gott, Fräulein~! Have a little faith, for Shalltear has taken to our master's lessons like a fish does to water~!" Pandora's Actor theatrically interjected.
"..."
Ainz inwardly cringed at his creation's manner of speaking and acting, but decided to let it pass for the time being. As loath as he was to admit it, Pandora's Actor showed good decision-making and analytical skills rivaling that of Demiurger and Albedo, but even surpassed them in terms of PvP tactics and strategy.
Truly, he was glad his embarrassing black-history insisted on coming to his seminars, and made the suggestion of the NPCs taking part in "war games" to test their newfound knowledge and skills. He even pointed out things that both he and the others had missed, and it made him wonder if he was underutilizing the Treasury's Area Guardian.
'If Pandora's Actor had been part of the operations with the lizardmen and the capital, would things have turned out differently?'
That was the question that weighed heavily on Ainz's mind. He was so ashamed of the NPC that he hid him away like something that was best left forgotten. But over the course of the week, he realized that he was a valuable resource. One in which he should have been using more of as events continued to grow in complexity and scope...
"Oh~! I think I can see them now." Albedo's honey-like voice chimed in, breaking Ainz out of his internal melancholy.
"Hoh~! So that's how you're playing your card, Shalltear?" Ainz thoughtfully hummed, confusing all but Nazarick's top minds.
Down below, the scene revealed to them was a flabbergasted Cocytus pressing his weapons against a barrier of light Shalltear had conjured at the last possible moment before his attack hit its mark. He recognized it as [Force Sanctuary], which creates a barrier from holy energy. While effective in completely blocking a foe's attack, it prevents the user from attacking themselves. In effect, it sacrificed offense, in exchange for an absolute defense.
Still, at this range the moment she brought it down, she'd be vulnerable to his counterattack. There was a small pang of disappointment from Cocytus, since she fought well, and wanted to further test himself against her. But then there was a wry smile from her that frankly confused him. Why would she be smiling in this...?
"...!"
It was then his danger-sense passives blared alarms in his head. He instinctively turned with his left-side brandishing their weapons, and then...
*CLANG!*
'"...!"'
With the exception of Ainz, Aura, Pandora's Actor, Demiurge, and Albedo, all the NPCs were shocked to see the glowing form of Shalltear's [Einherjar] double fading into view, grinning ear-to-ear like the original.
"Oh~hoh... When did she-?" Sebas stoically chimed in surprise.
"Before she even stepped into the arena to start the match. She summoned [Einherjar], used as many concealment spells as she had, and ordered it to keep its distance until Cocytus was entirely focused on her." Ainz said with an oddly proud chuckle.
"She has seen Cocytus's fighting ability for herself, and grew concerned about her prospects of facing Nazarick's top weapon master without a plan. Is that not correct, Ainz-sama?"
"Umu... That's correct, Demiurge."
"Kufufu~! I am curious to see how she will checkmate him in this situation." Albedo blithely commented.
Back down in the arena, Cocytus' compound-eyes tracked both Shalltear and her magical double as he strained to hold them back.
"THIS IS WHAT YOU WERE AIMING FOR? I COMMEND YOU FOR YOUR THINKING, SHALLTEAR. BUT YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE TO HAVE MADE PREPARATIONS."
"...!"
The petite True Vampire's smile faded as Cocytus' words sunk into her consciousness, and the seed of doubt was planted. What did he mean by that? What did he do?! Before she could mull further, Cocytus' voice bellowed, echoing off the walls.
"NOW! FROST VIRGINS!"
*CRASH!*BOOM!*
Suddenly, six pillars of ice erupted in the distance, and for a split second Shalltear's construct turned to meet the newcomers, while she herself brought down her barrier. Readying herself for Cocytus' typical onslaught, she was stricken with confusion when Cocytus dropped three of his four weapons, gripping his [God Slaying Emperor Blade] with all four of his hands as the others faded from view. All too late, Shalltear realized her mistake.
"Don't tell me-?! [Life Essence]!... Che!... Dammit~!"
"[Vidyārāja Strike]! [Smite Frost Burn]! [Yakshanarata]!"
Chaining together several of his [Weapon Skills] with expert deftness, he caught the magical construct from its flank completely unawares. The titanic release of energies from Cocytus' attacks bathed the arena in brilliant bluish-white, obscuring all from sight. Shalltear cursed under her breath, realizing her mistake as the spell confirmed her suspicions...
There was no one there!
Clearly, he bluffed her into dropping her guard, and with the silent activation of his [Ice Pillars], sold his deception, and she fell for it! Still, as the Supreme One taught, even a blunder could be used as an opportunity. Seizing the moment to create distance whilst Cocytus was completely focused on her construct, she channeled her MP, and then pounced...
"[Maximize Magic: Greater Lethal]! [Maximize Magic: Vermilion Nova]!"
*FOOM!*
Cocytus' position was swallowed by the successive application of the two elemental attack spells, and as she held a breath she did not need to draw, waited for the dust to clear as she activated one of her [Skills]...
"[Summon Household]."
Conjuring a multitude of familiars in the form of Elder Vampire Bats, Vampire Bat Swarms, Rats, Vampire Wolves and others, she used this opening to create greater numbers to increase her odds. After all, now she could use her spells and long-ranged [Skills] without worry of being rushed head-on.
Although, before she could summon more minions, she was bewildered by the sight she was witnessing. A shining tower-shield as large as Cocytus himself she did not recognize was held firmly in place by Cocytus' right-side arms, whilst his left held his [Divine Class] katana, which was now currently impaled in her construct's neck!
But what really made her blood curdle was the fact that her magical double burned with flames she had created! Suddenly, it all became clear; her fellow Guardian used that unfamiliar shield to block the first spell, while he used her double to soak up the second, effectively using her own spell against her! Between his fully-powered attacks and her Fire-Element spell, she was certain her construct's HP was severely drained, and from that angle...
'Wait, is he going to...?!'
As her eyes widened at the realization, Cocytus stepped on the flat of his blade, turning it into an impromptu guillotine as he used the advantage of his body's massive weight to it fullest, beheading her construct, which then faded into motes of light. Such a merciless tactic... It was quite out-of-character for the 5th-Floor Guardian, but then again, he learned some hard lessons from his recent failures. As did she. And as she was about to enact her next plan...
*BUUUZ!*
A shrill buzzing sound echoed across the arena, and she winched as she realized what it meant...
"Time's up! It's a draw!"
"Dammit~!"
Shalltear's frustration was understandable as her master announced the end of the training match and its results. Sighing in resignation, she de-summoned her familiars as she sullenly walked to the Amphitheater's center. Cocytus for his part dismissed his tower-shield as he held his weapon in a reverse-grip as a sign of nonaggression as he did the same.
Upon meeting up, they both knelt to their master, who floated to their front, flanked by those in the stands as they too went to a knee in genuflection. Releasing his hold on the guild-weapon, to their surprise he happily began clapping.
"A magnificent display my Guardians! Truly, that was a great showing of your progress."
'"Thank you, Ainz-sama!"' Shalltear and Cocytus replied in unison.
"Umu... Now, let us all stand as we review what happened in this training match."
Doing as instructed, even if some reluctantly did so, the NPCs stood straight as they gave their Supreme One their full and undivided attention.
"Now then, Cocytus, I have a question for you... You deliberately bided your time for the timer to run out, didn't you?" Ainz asked in a strangely pleased tone of voice, whilst Shalltear had a look of shock on her face.
"HM. THAT IS CORRECT, AINZ-SAMA. I KNEW I COULD NOT WIN AGAINST SHALLTEAR IN THE ALLOTED TIME. NOT WITHOUT TAKING RISKS THAT YOU HAVE TAUGHT US WOULD HAVE BEEN UNACCEPTABLE. SO, I FOUGHT FOR A HOLDING ACTION. IF THIS WERE A REAL BATTLE, I KNEW I COULD HOLD OUT UNTIL REINFORCEMENTS ARRIVED."
"Umu! Exactly so! I was most impressed with how you bluffed your opponent, and your feints were most impressive. Good work!" Ainz proudly complimented the Insectoid Floor Guardian.
"I MERELY USED WHAT YOU TAUGHT US, AINZ-SAMA." Cocytus humbly acknowledged.
"Umu... Keep at it then. Now then, Shalltear. Do not despair. You also did well. Your own tactics were sound, and I was genuinely impressed by how you used the lull before the match to use and hide your [Einherjar]. I will admit without shame that if you used that tactic on me, I would have run away without hesitation."
"...!"
Shalltear's eyes widened to impossible proportions at her master's words. Even some of her comrades had similar reactions to Ainz's admission, and suddenly tears of joy leaked from the edges of her eyes as his words swelled within her. Clenching her eyes tightly and wiping away her tears, she smiled as she graciously spoke.
"T-Thank you, Ainz-sama~! I promise I won't sit on my laurels. I'll continue to work hard to earn your praise."
"Umu! I expected nothing less, Shalltear. Now then my Guardian, that's enough for today. For tomorrow we'll hold the planned meeting in the throne room to discuss our future plans. Until then, the day is yours to do as you wish."
'"Yes, Ainz-sama!"'
Their master disappeared from view the moment they acknowledged his words, and were left to congregate amongst themselves.
"Hey, hey~! Pandora's Actor? That was a great match we had earlier. Can we do that again~?" Aura excitedly asked the Greater Doppelgänger.
"Ja~! It would be my pleasure. We just need to ask Ainz-sama when we can do so. For now though, I'll need return to mein duties once we are done here. Es tut mir leid~!"
"Okay~! I'll look forward to it~!" Aura happily grinned like a giddy younger sister talking with her older brother, whilst Mare smiled in contentment at the scene.
"So Cocytus, it seems your defeat by those mysterious lizardmen has actually been quite the boon for you." Demiurge observed with a friendly tone.
"HM. INDEED, DEMIURGE. IT SHAMES ME TO ADMIT IT, BUT I OWE THEM A DEPT OF GRADITUDE. IT HAS ALLOWED ME TO BETTER SERVE, AINZ-SAMA. I HOPE TO REPAY THAT DEPT WITH A REMATCH, SHOULD THE TIME EVER COME."
"Ah, I'm sure that time will come. You just need to be patient."
"OF COURSE, DEMIURGE, AINZ-SAMA HIMSELF SAID THAT PATIENCE CAN BE A WEAPON."
"Hm, quite so, my friend."
As the Arch-Devil pushed up his glasses with a pleased smile, he had to admit that their defeat at the Great Lakes really was a boon in disguise, as their 5th-Floor Guardian had grown in unexpected ways as a result. He was now using subterfuge in his tactics, and held a new zeal, and even a cold brutality in his reworked fighting-style. Even his manner of speaking had gone though some changes. Yes, this was a profound change for his friend, but a good one.
Even the normally empty-headed Shalltear was moving and acting more thoughtfully ever since Coctyus' defeat, and as Pandora's Actor himself said, had truly taken to their master's lessons like a fish to water. Even Albedo had undergone some profound changes. No longer was she so critical of those that failed, but had taken on a more pedagogical manner, educating and rebuking in equal measure. Yes, things were much more interesting now...
Back in Ainz's bedchamber, as what has become a new ritual for him, he was digging his head into his pillow, but instead of sighing in fatigue, he was breathing in contentment. Truly, he was pleased with how the NPCs were developing. While he had confirmed that the NPCs could not become stronger through training, their fighting style, tactics, and strategies could change, grow, and adapt.
As hard as it was in the beginning, his constant lessons and drills to break them of some of their bad habits bore fruit! Although not quite as good as his friends in YGGDRASIL, they were getting there, and he was confident that with time, even his old friends would be pleased. Still, there was something that the Overlord could not shake. It was a feeling he had back in his days as a salaryman. Namely, the feeling that something was not quite right. That there was something bad on the horizon, just waiting to complicate things...
'Dammit! I always hated this feeling... This bad feeling that I've missed something. That there's something going on that I don't know about... But what is it?!'
"Aaaargh~!"
The Overlord of Death would have looked quite silly twisting and turning in frustration in his bed, but strangely it helped to relieve him of some of his anxiety. Even if that strange feeling of disquiet persisted for unknown reasons...
...
In a void without form or substance, a lone hooded male figure with staff in hand, walked on a translucent bridge as he soundlessly strode forth down a darkened, swirling tunnel. His journey appeared as if it could go on forever, before a doorway of light instantly appeared before him.
Without hesitation he crossed the threshold, and reappeared in a crystalline-blue chamber that bore reflective surfaces end-to-end in a veritable hall of mirrors. As the light brightly glistened, this man was revealed to be the enigmatic figure known simply as "The Observer". The one that bore Madara's resurrected form into a new world from his original home. (A/N:CH.1)
Pulling back his hood, his irises suddenly shined with all the colors of the rainbow in a prismatic swirl of light. As he released his staff, with several hand motions he conjured several smaller mirrors of light that orbited him like planets around a star. His expression was pensive as he gazed into those smaller mirrors, witnessing events play on them in fast-forward.
Such a thing would be incomprehensible to a normal individual, but he seemingly followed them without issue. As he did, his rapt concentration was broken as looked up and to the right, and sighed wearily as he spoke in an equally weary tone.
"And to what do I owe the pleasure of your presence?"
'Aw, now don't be like that~! After all, what kind of Gentleman would I be if I did not check in on my fellow extra-dimensional custodian from time-to-time, hm?' A voice good-naturedly rang out from seemingly nowhere and everywhere all at once.
"If that were true my dear Gentleman scholar, you would have brought chocolates." The Observer said with a slightly amused smile.
'Hehehe~! Oh, you know me so well... Then I suppose it may have to do with recent events. Why, imagine my surprise when it came to my attention that not only have Ōtsutsuki clan members traversed where they should not have, but your chosen method of dealing with it. Truly, it's a rare thing for me to be surprised.'
"..."
The Observer sighed in resignation as he quickly realized what the disembodied voice of "The Gentleman" was implying, and then spoke in a plain, yet remorseful tone.
"I told him the truth. He's free to do as he wishes, for it really is a new beginning for him."
'Ah, but you did not tell him the whole truth, correct~? Why, as I understand it, this Madara's quite the sharp individual. Even someone as old and practiced as yourself would have had difficulty lying to one such as him. So why tell a lie, when an earnestly told portion of the truth will do~? You have a rare gift for obfuscation my dear fellow.'
"Do not speak as if you have not done the same." The Observer countered in subtle annoyance.
'Oh, my apologies~! That was not my intention at all. I was merely conveying my surprise that such an honest and forthright man like yourself could and would use such a method.'
"It could not be helped... The Transference spell cast by every version of the Dragon Emperor continues to send ripples across the borders between realms, unraveling the very skein of reality itself. It is all we can do to ensure that the balance is maintained. It is of little wonder that members of the Ōtsutsuki found a world outside their sphere of influence. No, perhaps it was inevitable."
'I could not agree more my dear fellow~! Although it just adds to a rather bothersome list of problems to address, does it not? The Yogg, the Beasts of Chaos, and incursions from other worlds? And in this particular instance, by beings who eat planets for breakfast? Truly, we do keep busy. Although if I may speak frankly~?'
"Hahaha... You speak frankly? Truly, the end times must be upon us." The Observer wryly chuckled in reply.
'Hahaha~! Yes, it's quite shocking. Although, it is my observation that sending Madara there to deal with the situation was quite devious. Isn't my dear fellow? Because, you knew that no matter what path he chose, it would lead to conflict. He'll not tolerate Ōtsutsuki threatening his new home after all. Even we have our hands full, so it's only natural that we introduce our own pieces onto the board. Despite them not realizing it themselves.'
"But therein lies the difference between you and I my dear Gentleman. The deviousness in the method, is simply a way for him to forge a new beginning for himself. It is by necessity, what is needed to keep the Ōtsutsuki from disrupting what is already a fragile balance."
'Ah, so in other words, you truly do care about his well-being. Perhaps I should not be surprised. You have always been an honest fellow.'
"Whereas you tend to be quite the disingenuous mischief maker." The Observer commented with a smirk.
'Aw, my dear friend, you wound my very name~! Heehee... Besides, would the relentless march of eternity not get dull if we focused only on duty and responsibility~?'
"To that I say, we can find enjoyment in the fulfillment of those duties and responsibilities."
'True~! But they do not have to be mutually exclusive.'
"So you say... But that is another topic for another day. For now though, I must watch as things unfold, and I am sure you have things that requires your own attention, my dear Gentleman."
'Yes, yes, I see how I have worn out my welcome. Until next time~!'
"..."
With that, the voice and its associated presence faded, leaving The Observer to his solitary tasks, and as he sees an image of one of Madara's clones come upon the grave of one of the fabled Thirteen Heroes, a whisper akin to an earnest prayer escapes his lips...
"Madara, I can do nothing to help you. You must succeed. 'Else the dominos fall, and tip the scales towards..."
His finals words become unintelligible as light fills the chamber, and the final image seen on one of his mirror-like monitors, was that of a colossal tree, reaching into the heavens...