Heaven or Hell

by Scarabeye3000

An Overlord of Death, and a Fallen Angel leads Nazarick into the New World. OC.

6. Nothin personal all business (rewritten)

Disclaimer: Not mine, nor yours. Bugger then.

Title: Heaven or Hell

Chapter 6 - Not personal, but all business.

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Arwintar - Baharuth Empire

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Black stallions thundered through the whole Capital City and through the nearby provinces as they carried special invitations to the numerous nobles, members of high society, learned individuals and business owners that is the core of the Empire's vast economy. From the head of numerous guilds, to large landowners, powerful families, blue bloods and famous men and women of the civil part of society were all given invitations.

An invitation to a social gathering that would eclipse all those thrown by any nobleman before.

For the arrival of a foreign merchant that decided to dig his roots in the Empire's Capital has not gone unnoticed. The name of Samuel of Cadia spreads far and wide in just the 1 week they arrived at the capital city of Arwintar. Conflicting reports of him being a businessman, a trader by profession and an adventurer by vocation, they found him to be suddenly integrated into their society. Almost everyone was aware of the recent properties that are up for sale by the Imperial Coffers had been snatched up right away and the sudden influx of goods that are of exquisite make and durability almost made an economic upheaval of the Trading system. To those who do not know him, it would be wise to go back to the time that they arrived at the doorsteps of this great nation.

Samuel, who came through the Fortress city of Solsticium was previously given an entrance permit and a temporary trading permit by the Magistrate of that city. He was cleared for the reasons of him being a foreign businessman entering the Empire, and having a temporary permit was issued to him personally by the well-known Magistrate. Though on their late night arrival within the capital, after consolidating their resources and resting after an early morning meeting, they immediately met with the head of the Trading Guild and secured their foreign trading license. Master Samuel himself and Zadicus decided it would be best to deal with this aspect as this will definitely need more than just the old process of bribery and cunning word play.

Lily was left in charge of procuring their premises near the commercial district of the capital. By dividing the work with his angels, the Warmaster can ensure that they would be able to function more efficiently and began production of their other offered products on a much earlier schedule. So, while he was procuring the Trading License, and the Trading House, Baramus took charge on establishing their foothold or the grounds for the Supreme Being's residence in this city. He found a perfect spot and purchased it at once, he sealed the deal with the Imperial Coffers and marveled at the efficiency of the Bureaucracy, as long as they were assured of the Property tax being collected every time on schedule, then they would not be worried about it at all.

As such, with the establishment of the necessary things they would need to establish a strong front on the Empire. They all consolidated on the Manor and began their debriefing in earnest.

"My Lord, all nine carriages are accounted for and have set up shop behind the Manor, the Magos reports that construction of the Manufactorum should be complete within the week, but production can begin for the handcrafted works and the painting works in two days."

"Excellent, it would be good if we can begin production as our wares are currently dwindling in number," Sammael looked at the data on scrolls they have on the large table as he scanned it one by one, "I do not wish to convert our Manufactorum on the 'Stellarum Nex' as that is reserved for that ships defense and in the worst case scenario, a tragedy brought forth by natural means. But lets move on from that for now, in regards to this Manor- please explain further Baraqiel."

"My Lord," the Angel stood up and pick up his scroll and offered it to the Fallen, "As stated by the contract of purchase, the Imperial Coffers had this large property up for sale for a few years now. The previous owner was a Count of immense wealth and power that lost everything including his life and family when the 'Bloody Emperor' purged the Empire of his enemies. As mentioned, the Emperor cleansed the nobility's rank and abolished most of their power and gave absolute power to the Crown. Since the nobility used to control most of the trade, peasants, administrative and soldiery of this Empire."

"I see, so the Emperor is not a foolish one, in effect, he made a republic in name answerable to him," Sammael smiled at that, "I would like to learn more on his teachers, his ideas are quite advanced for this medieval age."

"I also agree to that My Lord, continuing on though, the purchase of this estate from the Imperial Coffers for a total of 250 Yggdrasil gold coins- y-yes My Lord?"

Sammael looked dumbfounded as he raised his hand to interrupt him, 250 gold coins for an estate this large was impossible, "250 only? Your telling me that this estate with roughly the size of a domestic airport and runway is only 250 gold coins? I mean, that should be around 8 to 12 hectares right?"

"That is an excellent estimate My Lord, this estate called the Powersfort Estate, if we include the surrounding valley and the nearby waterfall and this building including the large stables, and of course the outer walls is around 19 hectares, not including those lands without fencing."

The Fallen shook his head as he tried to wrap it in his mind, so in essence, he had lands as large as a Texas Cattle baron? Wait, that came out wrong, "So you said we have around 19 acres of land?"

"U-uh, that is actually an approximate 47 acres My Lord, its 19 HECTARES at the least Lord Sammael."

"Thank you, I'm just checking," said Sammael as he screamed inside, 'HOLY SHIIEETTEE!'

"Alright, is there any reason why this land and property is so cheap right now?" , 'Fucking CHEAP!? WHO BUYS 19 HECTARES FOR 250 GOLD PIECES ONLY!? WHAT IS THIS THE 'WEST'?'

Baraqiel looked down on another paper and hands it to his master, "W-when we all went to the Trade Guild to exchange our coins My Lord, I explained to them our origin story, about us coming from Cadia across the sea. They were quite amazed and absolutely smitten with the way the Yggdrasil coin was made so they gave us a conversion of 3 Imperial gold coins to 1 Yggdrasil gold coin."

"That's odd, can you give me an Imperial gold coin?" Sammael reached out and received the gold coin given by Baraqiel and he also took one from his pocket, "They're not the same huh?"

"Indeed, the officials at the Trading Guild said that the coin was like art and I can agree to their assessment. By comparing the coins issued by the Trade Guild and ours-"

"I can see what you mean, our Yggdrasil coins are perfectly machined and minted with uniform ridges on the sides for identification and of course the engraved art work for the Valkyrie on one side and the World Tree on the other side is superbly clean and very clear," the Fallen stroked the coins with his fingers, feeling the ridges and lines formed by the engraved art, "Well, if you compare it to the rudimentary striking of the coin used by the Empire, it is a far cry indeed. And it seems our coins are heavier than what they issue. Is there any metal fillings that are different?"

"Yes my Lord, the gold in weight between the two is different indeed since the Yggdrasil coin is twice as heavy," it was still Baraqiel who answered as he produced the same coins but neatly cut in the middle, "We have analyzed the compounds of both coins and found that they are all made with pure gold, but ours is much denser, thus heavier. Additionally, both the Re-Estize Kingdom's coin and the Baharuth Empire's coin weigh approximately 31 grams give or take a few variations within the decimal ranges, however our coins are a constant 60 grams per piece with no added metals inside."

'Maybe because the coins from Yggdrasil were all made according to the settings of the game,' Sammael stood up and looked at the estate, for 250 golds coins, they already have a sprawling mansion and enough land to hide a full legion, their equipment and even land the 'Stellarum Nex' if needed. The Fallen tried to compute it, if the 500 meter long ship needed to be serviced they can land it here and cast all known types of concealing magic to it. Additionally, the Forest of Tob can hide it as well considering the Elven Kingdom would be more than glad to keep their secret safe. As such, with the knowledge that their gold coins are a premium item in this world, Sammael could not let the proliferation of the coin any further.

"Everyone, we cannot allow further use of our gold coins, if the value is as you say, then we cannot make it common as it is," the Angels all wrote down what he said, "Furthermore, we risk exposing ourselves too soon if we are not going to get back those coins."

"What should we do my Lord?"

"Hmm, I have a good idea," Sammael took another scroll from the many in front of him and began to write on it, "Our shops have excellent items and material correct? Now, our 'trash' weapons, or those that can be wielded by anyone and have the minimal amount of enchantment costs about an arm and a leg correct?"

"Yes my Lord."

"There you have it, if they would use our Yggdrasil coin for the purchase, then we would make them a weapon or an armor with 2 enchantments," the Fallen shrugged his shoulders, "It is a fairly simple process and our Magos can definitely make it without much difficulty. Now, once word gets out then not only will it encourage those that have acquired the coins to use it, but also give precedence of the premium and exclusive grade of our items."

All the Generals bowed their head in understanding, "That is an excellent thought My Lord, you are using their greed against them so that we can get back our own gold coins."

The Fallen also nods in agreement, "Additionally, I want a small group of Magos that would monitor and trace the gold that we have spent initially. I want them back in our vaults, so you will try and find them. Hopefully, they would come up in the market either as a work of art or they would be enticed to use it to acquire our somewhat less trashy items."

"My Lord your business acumen is excellent, truly we are fortunate to have your leadership."

Sammael gave a small laugh as he reclined further on his chair, "Our Old World forced us to improve and to think for ourselves to survive. Even if you are an excellent military commander, if you do not have weapons and logistics then you are nothing. I was forced to make do with what I had before in the old world, dealing with African warlords, or the remnants of the mujahedeens, even surviving Afrikaners and Zionist zealots. No, my dear Generals- this is just business, nothing personal at all. Now, Tasking: to the Archmagos of the Administratum-"

A Magos approached the table and unraveled a roll of parchment, he took out a mechanical quill and stared back at the Supreme Being indicating he was ready.

"-dear Magos, the Administratum is hereby ordered to replicate or manufacture a menagerie of monetary coins that resemble those issued by the Baharuth Empire. Under no circumstances would your department use machines to strike the coin, each and every coin must be hand crafted and with acceptable errors in inconsistencies factored in. Your time frame is 3 days for designing, prototyping, approval of the prototype and finally production. Equal values of Platinum, Gold, Silver and Copper that is based on our projected usage both in commercial, and personal must be produced. As mentioned, the approval of the design must come within 3 days and if possible, secure input from the Guild Master."

"My Lord, is it wise to limit the supply of the Imperial coins? Would it not be more beneficial to have a large amount of it for our own usage?"

"Yes Baraqiel, it is necessary," Sammael replied, "I do understand your reservation, but if we use too much of our manufactured currency, the sudden influx of the coins 'might' be noticed by the Imperial Bank and we could be investigated since we are a fairly new and large business entity. Additionally, since we would be maintaining a Trading House, we can mix the Imperial coins with our minted coins and then circulate it back to the market. It is similar to money laundering in a sense, but then again if we flood too much gold in the market too soon, the surplus of the gold might decrease the value of it. That will also diminish the value of other expensive metals like silver or copper, even aluminum would be affected if we are not careful. As such, controlled and monitored usage is important or it could be disastrous to this Empire's economy in the long run."

Ecomics, a topic unfamiliar to all of them, but one so richly discussed in the Old World. A topic that is part of their curriculum and one he had the pleasure of practicing in the field. I mean, if you brought a shipment of weapons across the naval blockade of the UN on the Suez Canal and then drop it off at Somalia after destroying one or two unaffiliated Pirate crew. He sees nothing wrong with it, but merely earning a little bit extra for his crew of 115 sailors. After getting a pat on the back from high command after combating piracy, then he and his crew get paid for the trouble of carrying extra cargo for the shipment of weapons. Everybody wins right?

Plus, if they don't get paid then he could always send a cruise missle to any African Warlord that owed him money anyway.

As such, he brought those same practices and principles that he used in the Old World, then applied it to the New World, albeit with a little variations of course.

The Magos who wrote down his order bowed as he neatly rolled the orders and tucked it neatly away inside one of the cylindrical containers he had in his saddle bag. The orders and messages of the Supreme being are all written down and locked away into one of the vaults safely inside the 'Stellarum Nex' and the Great Tomb. Signaling that he can proceed, Baraqiel nods his head and followed through with his report on the properties that they have acquired, "My Lord, together with Brother Leliel. We have managed to acquire the deed of this estate and then your Trading House from the postings at the office of the Imperial Coffers-"

"Ah yes, how much did you buy that Trading House? It was really large and was located in the corner of the street too," the Fallen sounded pleased. But who would not be after he saw the property they bought. A two-story premises that has a floor area of 800 square feet, with a cellar underneath and a back lot that measured 600 square feet. It was located on the North side of the main marketplace and completely overlooked the whole market square, it had a red-tiled roof and a covered rooftop where it can be used as the employee's lounge. The shop was also not too far from the central plaza and the Basilica of the 4 Gods of the Empire. As such, it was an excellent place and unlike the citizens of the New World where you open your shop immediately upon preparing, Sammael decided to copy the style used by the large corporation from the Old World.

When Sammael inspected the place awhile ago, he had discussed further about the products and merchandise that they would sell. There was no doubt in his mind that the products he would sell might upstage a few small business owners. As such to dispel any jealousy and envy that might stem from him opening a large shop, he wanted to orchestrate a grand ball or gathering. As a form of introducing himself and advertising his products mainly to the middle class and wealthy families within the Empire. The Grand Ball was aimed to dispel any notion of stiff competition from members of the Trading Guild and the promise of maintaining the status quo of the economy, without derailing the constant increase in the Empire's GDP compared to those of the other nations around it.

He was still contemplating on the items they would stock the shelves when Leliel's voice came up and said.

"My Lord, the Trading House cost only 75 gold pieces."

'Bugger me,' he almost screamed but said, "I see, so the property is somewhat cheap, but unlike this estate it is actually more expensive correct?"

"I do apologize for the amount, I could have gotten it for less," Leliel bowed in apology, "But I agreed to a decrease in taxes in exchange for the 5% revenue cut and 25% percent real estate tax discount."

Sammael analyzed it further, his Angel did correctly. The procurement is only a one time payment of 75 gold coins, but the taxes and revenue percentage are a running cost that they must maintain. He did good by getting discounts and cuts on their taxes and income revenue by the Empire.

"That is fine Leliel," he stood up and walked over to the veranda where he could see the facade of the estate, "You all did well and have made decisions that will benefit us in the long run."

All around him moved red and brown robed Skitariis and servitors, fixing everything and anything that was damaged by time on this estate. His eyes roam through everything, including the fortified walls and the soldiers manning them. Satisfied, he turned back to the meeting and said, "I want you all to prepare a Grand Ball."

Baraqiel raised his hand and asked, "How big will the ball be? Must it be bouncy or made out of stone?"

"-or rubber?"

"Aluminum or steel my Lord?"

"Shall we model it after a volleyball or a baseball?"

"Is it for a set of ball bearing? Or perhaps a ball pivot for an entrenched gun?" a Magos quipped.

"Perhaps my Lord is fancying to make a Grand Shotgun to go with the Grand Ball? I mean, we need balls to act as pellets for shotgun shells yes?" that suggestion earned quite a few praises from the Magos and from Leliel who thought it wonderful to make a defensive gun within the estate.

The Fallen Angel sighed, 'Wonderful, just wonderful. Leave it to me to program the best commanders, soldiers and spies. Yet forget to give them any semblance of social knowledge at all!'

"I know it might be hard to understand, but a Ball is a social gathering. Now, I wish for all of you to work together in preparing this Grand Ball. If you must approach other people of renown to ensure that proper protocols are met then do so," Sammael patiently explained, "If possible, I want every noble family invited, no matter how distant or obscure. Any wealthy merchant, any family of great name, any person of great personal achievement, skills, education or office. I want them here. We will establish all the contact that we could find and use them to help integrate us further into the Baharuth Empire."

"We may need some help in regards to this gathering my Lord, I cannot recall any battle plans requiring a party, except the one where you told us about Julius Caesar and his best friend Brutus-"

"No! Heavens above! That's not a party at all-"

"B-but you told us it is a gathering right?"

Sammael sighed as he rubbed his forehead in frustration. He then turned to a nearby Magos and said, "Tasking: To the Magos of the Vox, send word to the Great Tomb and to the Guild Master. I want Yuri Alpha to be here and an assistant of hers to lead the preparations, give all possible materials and extend all courtesies to her."

The Magos hurriedly wrote down the instructions of the Supreme being and then carefully rolled the parchment and puts it inside a new cylindrical jar. Carefully, he puts it in his bag and prepared another roll of parchment.

"Before we proceed, what is happening with Ainz right now?"

Another Magos raised his hand and stood up, "My Lord, we have an outdated report from the Archmagos of the Vox within the Stellarum Nex that Lord Ainz has successfully integrated himself into the Re-Estize Kingdom as a powerful adventurer with his escorts, the Pleiades Maid Narberal Gamma and General Azrael are at his side as his companion. They are currently heading back to Carne Village right now as part of a retinue for a famous potion maker, we have confirmed the name as Nfirea Bareare."

Hmm, Sammael rubbed his chin in contemplation, "Famous potion maker? Maybe Ainz intends to recruit this Nfirea into Nazarick. Perhaps that is what he would do and he had not probably got the chance to inform me. Anyways, I can see that this potion-maker can help us formulate new types of Life Potions."

"Pardon me my Lord?" it was the Magos in charge of the Manufactorum, "Are there any issues with our recent batch of potions?"

"Of course not, the potions made by you Magos are perfect as always however, the stocks that you use for this process are items that came from Yggdrasil. Stock of items that we have no way to replenish at the moment," the Fallen explained, "As such, I would like you all to suspend production of the Life Potions and instead confer with your colleagues on how to create a Life Potion and a Mana Potion with materials sourced in this world."

The Magos was stumped, "My Lord, we do not have that knowledge at all."

"That is why the work being done by Ainz would benefit us in the long run," Sammael smiled as it became clear now, "We will base our new potions on the research done by this Nfirea so that our forces will not waste its time grasping the basics of potion making in this world. Additionally, I want Azrael updated on what is happening right now, once they reach Carne Village set-up a meeting with him so he can also report their progress on the Re-Estize Kingdom."

"We do your bidding Warmaster," the Magos bowed and stepped back from the table.

"Let us now discuss on the others, any other updates except from Ainz?"

Another Magos stepped up and said, "Supreme Being, General Ramiel is currently on-board the Stellarum Nex on low orbit and is constantly scanning the Slane Theocracy for any traces of any World Item. If you can recall, we reported a short spike of magic near the borders of the Re-Estize Kingdom and we have determined that the source is a World Item, we were closing into its location at that time however, the signal soon vanished."

"Were you able to determine what type of weapon or item was that?"

The Magos looked forlornly at his scroll, "Accept our apologies Warmaster, but not much information was gathered by the short scan of the item we received. But we were able to establish that the World Item is not a 1-time use, it is probably one of the lesser of the '20' we are looking for."

"Make this Ramiel's priority, a World Item that is not a 1-time use is extremely useful to the safety of the Guild. I want a general alarm once it is detected again, all Generals, including me, must be alerted and drop everything and respond. Is that clear?"

"Yes Supreme Being!"

"By the way, was Ainz reminded to have the Guardians armed with a World Item to counter a World Item's effect on them?"

"Yes my Lord," the same Magos nods his head, "Lord Ainz was informed of it and so far, according to the Magos of the Vox, Lady Albedo already carries the Ginunggagap, Lady Aura carries Picture of Nature and Nation, Lady- err Lord Mare carries the gauntlets of Avarice and Generous, while Lord Cocytus and Demiurge carry the Billion Blades and the famed Bowl of Hygieia, I do apologize once more since it was not clarified which of the two actually carried the item that was mentioned."

He did a mental headcount of the Guardians and said, "What about Shalltear?"

The Magos looked down at his scroll and said, "We have confirmed reports that Lady Shalltear was given a World Item, but we were not given the name. Apparently, it was taken from an Area Guardian from the Great Tomb on the 8th Floor, the same floor that was decreed not to exist. The name of the Area Guardian was also not given, but Lord Ainz assured us that the Guardians are properly protected."

"No doubt it could be the Seimei Umbrella from Aureole Omega," he whispered as he looked at the other Generals with him, "Very well, though I do not need to worry about my Generals falling, you still have the gifts I have given you? No doubt my reminder of them not be used still stands, except in the most direst circumstances"

Baraqiel, Zadkiel and Leliel all caressed their World Items that are part of their weapons load out, to think that their Warmaster had the thought to use such valuable items for their own protection. A gesture not missed by the Angels as this clearly shows that the Warmaster values them more than the World Item, a notion that was quite disconcerting since the Supreme Beings once sacrificed Lord HeroHero in a stalemate with a rival guild over a World Item. He also remembered a story he heard about how Lord LucIf3r self-immolated himself and actually sacrificed his life force and a level down to obtain a World Item. Yet here we are, mere soldiers and generals for the Supreme Beings and yet they are valued just like a Supreme Being would value their own.

It was mind-boggling to say the least, but it cannot be denied that to have a commander that secures your safety and survival in an already dangerous situation felt very good at the very least.

"Any thing else we forgot to mention?" it broke their reverie as the Fallen Angel finally begins the recap on their meeting.

Silence from everyone else across the long table as Sammael stood up and looked at everyone with him on this meeting, "Without further ado, this meeting is adjourned. I want updates on our projects everyday both at the start and the end of the business day. We have 1 week to finalize our merchandise list when we open the Trading House, which also coincides with the Grand Ball. I expect you all to perform at your best and to do your assignments and individual projects with a critical mind and sound judgement, remember we have only this coming week to establish our Trading House as the best provider in the Empire for premium, and luxurious goods. Take note that we must be the best and the most reliable traders in the Imperium, so we will make it count."

"Peace!" everyone stood as Sammael opened his arms and loudly proclaimed to those gathered, "Peace for a Thousand years!"

"Peace!" the gathered Generals and Magos chorused back, their voices full of conviction and faith, "Peace through superior POWER and overwhelming MIGHT!"

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And so, after the invitation has been sent and the confirmation to the invitation has been received from the numerous parties that agreed to go. The day of the Grand Ball has finally arrived.

From afar, flame braziers illuminated the road leading to Samuel's Estate. It was a fairly known estate since it once belonged to a wealthy noble of the Empire. A noble that went against the Emperor and suffered the consequences for it. The fortified wall covered the estate proper itself, as numerous carriages passed through the large gates. Attendees of the ball included numerous nobles, traders, and high-ranking military personnel, including their first contact in the Empire. The old wolf, Magistrate Tibian who traveled to Arwintar at his utmost persuasive behest. Casting a subtle 6th-Tier magic called control weather, the night had a cloudless sky and the moon and stars added to the illumination of the evening. The night was crisp, not overly warm nor too cold for one's taste, the weather was actually perfect for a leisurely stroll at the large tiered garden. Red-robed 'security personnel' was scattered in regular intervals and could be visibly seen lurking on the perimeter of the place. With the distant walls manned perfectly by soldiers who stood stock still and at the ready to respond to any crisis. They occasionally mingled with the guest by two's as they wore mask to hide their mechanical enhancements. Their weapons dangling on their belts, open for anyone else to see and to ensure to the guest that they are perfectly safe within Samuel's estate.

Two men stood together on the upper steps of the estate as they scanned the guest, the first one greeted the guest one by one without any guide while the other one simply bowed.

Zadkiel or Zadicus was put in charge of the guest's entertainment, he was also put in charge of welcoming the guest. His photographic memory recalled each and every guest that have sent their reply. When the invitations were sent out by messengers on their black stallions, the party goers expected only those of the nearest provinces to come. However, he made sure that the allure of the invitation, they used gold leaf for the letters, would excite even those nobles that have been put up into the riches of a decadent life. Gold embossed letters and hard paper envelope, the Magos who crafted such letters lightly scented each with perfumes made from spring flowers and pheromones that allured ladies to no end, thus, ensuring that a large attendance is to be expected due to the constant nagging of the ladies of the house especially if they do not have their way.

Beside him stood Leliel or Lily in this instance, who wore a black tunic ensemble, a high collar with a black cross medallion. Knee-high leather boots and a black long coat draped on his shoulders. He clutched a sword to ensure that everyone would know he is responsible for the security of the guest, if that is not clear then perhaps the 2 red-robed Skitarii Legionnaires with him at his side could drive the point across. His gloved hand shifted the gorget that hung in front of his neck like a small breastplate, it was engraved with the coat of arms of the Supreme Being, which is a double headed eagle. He looked at each and every guest that Zadkiel would greet as he also bowed if the guest would greet him, just to be polite of course.

"What's wrong?" Zadkiel pleasantly asked as another guest was ushered inside.

"What do you mean what's wrong?" Leliel looked at him quizzically.

"Good evening ladies, please go ahead inside," he greeted another set of guest and ushered them inside, "Your frowning at the guest, would you try to smile at least."

The other Angel's brow furrowed, "I am NOT frowning."

"There you just did it- good evening Count Berenguer, please proceed inside we will begin soon," Zadicus pleasantly said to a guest, "If you must stay here then please look at least amenable to the guest. And what got you so worked up anyway?"

"Gah!" Leliel gasped exasperatedly, "This gorget is not doing wonders on my patience, the collar is already tight. But now the gorget is pulling it down and the collar on my nape is being weighed down and its creasing uncontrollably its beginning to look horrible. And its getting hard to even swallow something and- why are you looking at me like that!?"

Zadkiel merely pointed at his own neck and said, "Whoever said you to wear a medallion across your NECK anyway? It should dangle onto your chest and your 'gorget' should be affixed from the back with a suspender. Look at mine then!"

He looked at his brother's own dress since they basically wore the same clothing with different colors and hummed appreciatively, "Hmm, I see."

"Go back inside and correct your dress, I can't have you brooding on our guest."

"I'm not brooding," Leliel said as he began to turn back to the mansion.

"Just please go away- no, of course not you Duke Alencon, welcome and to your very pretty wife," Zadkiel smoothly said as he was left alone to welcome the guest.

The 2 Skitarii's stationed themselves on the door as Leliel entered the house, he found a large mirror near the kitchen as he heard a familiar voice shouting at the top of its lungs.

"OH Fucking hell! The meat is raw!"

"Why are you cooking the fish now? Why are you cooking the fish NOW!? DO it later or you'll overcook it in the oven!"

"I've been a servant of Lord Sammael for decades now and I have never seen anyone roast potatoes using WHITE PEPPER! DO IT AGAIN AND USE BLACK PEPPER! NOW!"

He risked a look inside the kitchen and saw his other brother Baraqiel or for this night Baramus taking charge of the kitchen. With innumerable servitors under his command, he is the one responsible for creating the masterful dishes tonight for their guests benefit. Red-robed Magos are applying finishing touches on some of the dishes as he hovered and weaved around the four counter assembly line. Pots of cauldron, large pans and ovens are going on at the same time as he saw Baraqiel walking back and forth shouting orders left and right like a drill sergeant boring down on new recruits on their first training day.

"Where is the duck? How long till the duck is finished? How long till the duck is- fucking hell how long!?"

"Twelve soups! Twelve soups! I want twelves soups now! Get it going now!"

"Where's the prawn? Where's my PRAWN!?"

"QUICKLY! Where's the SAUCE!? Where'smySAUCEwhere'smySAUCE- you have two minutes servitor!?"

The servitors and Magos have all foregone their long robes and wore white long sleeved uniforms, he noticed that the servitors all still wear mask and covers for their head. While the Magos also did the same as their numerous appendages on their backs assisted them with cooking and finishing the touches on their 5 course meal.

"Come ON! QUICKLY!"

Leliel stepped back and fixed his dress the way that Zadicus instructed him to. He took another glancing look at the kitchen and found the controlled chaos that his brother was wading about. Satisfied that his brother could handle it so, he stepped back outside into the open facade of the estate and saw that numerous guest are already milling about. The entire facade was lighted by magical pins of light that littered the hedgerows that threw a gentle light around the place. Music from instruments they have not seen before softly filled the air as numerous concertos and minuets were played by an orchestra of red-robed Skitariis with military precision. Almost a hundred guests lingered on the garden as they socialized and waited for the host of the ball to arrive.

Leliel saw the Magistrate Tibian, their first acquaintance within the Empire. He had arrived early and had took it upon himself to regal some guest about the virtues and qualities of their host for the evening. He stood near the Magistrate as the Angel saw a decorated General approaching the Magistrate, he was flanked by two other senior officers and his personal adjutant.

"Magistrate Tibian," the General bowed a bit and took the older man's hand, "It is good to see you."

"Carvain, you little whelp!" the older man said the words fondly, curious Leliel kept a closer watch of them, "I see they made you Commander of the 2nd Legion. Good for you to finally attain the posting you wanted. I believe your father commanded the 3rd Dragoon Legion?"

"That is correct sir, though it is not as prestigious as handling the Prima Legion like you did," General Carvain smiled as the other officers smiled while his adjutant gawked at them.

At the sight of his gawking and confused adjutant, the General helpfully said, "Oh yes, he was the Commander of the Felix Prima Legion. Field Marshal Herodotus Tibian was his full title back then while I was a young Captain back then am I right?"

"Well, that time was quite trying for the Empire," Tibian raised his hand and a servitor walked towards them carrying drinks, "It was hard to advance back then and many noble-born officers who did not side with the Emperor were, shall we say, dismissed from the service."

"Indeed, if it not for you entrusting me with the de-facto command of the Felix Legion as you begin to transition on your retirement, I am not sure if the Emperor would trust me," Carvain smiled and gave a small bow again to the Magistrate, "When I heard that you were tasked with the defense of your hometown and was made both Magistrate and Marquis, I was not surprised that half of the enlisted men from the Felix Legion requested to be transferred to your garrison."

"I told them the frontier was not as exciting as the annual war, but they insisted- who am I to stop such earnest men on what they want."

The general chuckled and drained the wine from his cup, "I do thank you Marshal Tibian, your trust in me that time earned me command of the 2nd Legion."

Tibian smiled at that, "Do you still keep the tenets of service?"

"Love your country, defend the weak, and making your wife happy," Carvain smiled at the memory, "Of course I still do Marshal."

"That's good enough for me then."

Leliel kept silent as he listened to the conversation of the guest around him. He was still scanning the surroundings when he saw a man heading towards the General and the Magistrate. He wore a soft blue tunic as a woman followed closely behind the man, he recalled the man's face as the Head of the Trading Guild for the Baharuth Empire and was simply enamored with the charisma of Lord Sammael on their first meeting.

"By the way Marshal, have you met our host?"

"Of course, he is an adventurer, a trader, and a refugee all in one."

"You believe him to be a refugee?" Carvain looked a bit skeptical, "That he actually came from a far-away place?"

Tibian smiled at that, "I understand your apprehension and wariness of his statements, but you have not seen the things and objects he carried with him. I have traveled far and wide across the continent for both personal and due to my former duties, but not even the Argland or the Karnassus City-States have any similar items that they carried with them. "

"It seems you are very convinced of his authenticity, I wish I could have met him though. You know how I love to be in the know," the General took another cup of wine and wondered, "But our host is certainly taking his time to arrive, I wonder what's he doing right now?"

"No doubt preparing himself for the time that you could quiz him General," the man that Leliel observed awhile ago finally sidled up next to them, "Good evening General and to you Field Marshal-"

"That was a long time ago Maes, I am merely a Magistrate now," Tibian smiled as the woman behind the man called Maes bowed at them. He deftly took her dainty hand and gave it a light kiss, "Good evening to you, Lady Gracia Hughes."

The General copied the gesture and also kissed the hand of the lady, "Charmed, as always Gracia."

"Alright! Alright! You two lecherous bastards stop touching my wife!"

Both Tibian and Carvain gave a small laugh, Maes Hughes was a right barbing prick, but when it comes to his wife and other men flirting with her. Well, let's say there were many inquiries in the army that former Field Marshal Tibian and General Carvain had to quash about a brash young former Colonel named Maes Hughes who slacks on military discipline, except when its about his family.

"After all this years, your still so stingy about your wife," the Magistrate gave another chuckled, "Your always jealous about other men-"

"Remember the Knight he throttled who actually sent flowers to Gracia?" Carvain laughed at that, "I can't imagine Elicia having her boyfriend meet her father-"

"NO! My baby Elicia will never marry!" Maes was close to tears as he was easily triggered by the thought of his family.

"You can't expect her to be a nun Maes right?"

"No! My baby Elicia is MINE!"

It was his wife who finally calmed him down, "Relax my dear, we will handle it together when it comes. She's only 3 right now so it is a long way off."

"Well that got him to shut up at least, good work Gracia."

The General looked towards the estate ground and saw other people of the Empire who are all well-known through all circles of life, "The Ball they arranged attracted the important people in the Empire, our host must really be something else if he managed to get the leaders of every aspect of the Empire's government to come. Even those that are retired military men such as us."

"Indeed, I actually had the pleasure of meeting him since he wanted to register his Trading House within the Baharuth Empire," it was Maes who answered, "I was able to talk him when he visited the Guild House and fortunately, I was also there on some errand."

"Tell me Maes, what do you know of our host? Our Marshal seemed mum about him."

"I am not mum about him, I just can't describe him in full to give it justice," Tibian interjected, "But what I can tell you from the short time that we interacted is that he is an adventurer, with the discipline of a military man and he evokes a sense of thought that his personality is not all there is to it."

"Oh? Surely you are not insinuating him to be a spy."

"Of course not!"

"By the way, have you tasted their numerous liquor? He gave me a good vintage called a 'bourbon' he said it was aged for 15 years," Tibian chuckled at the thought, "Of course, I didn't believe him until I saw the barrels he kept it in and it was as old as my riding breeches."

The professional soldiers both retired and active gave small chuckles at the inside joke. Maes gave a smile and gestured to his dress, "I was given the same liquor however, I have not had the pleasure of opening and tasting it. He did give us samples of his wares and I must say the quality of construction is quite superb. This tunic actually came from his wares, he managed to have it tailored within the day and it is simply luxurious to feel on the skin."

"He must have such excellent artisans," General Carvain stated as he looked at the security within the estate, "Not to mention very wealthy to accommodate a large amount of servants and 'security personnel', its like a whole battalion is currently defending this place."

"Close to a hundred maybe?"

"More or less."

"Have you also noticed the discipline his men and servants alike displays? He said all his men are from his birthplace which is Cadia, across the sea to a ruined continent."

Maes Hughes shook his head in disbelief, "Fascinating, he did not mention that when we spoke a few days ago-"

BOOM!

Gasps all the way around the estate as sky flowers bloomed with a bang. Eyes widened in excitement as even members of the military looked up at the spectacle as fireworks illuminated the sky. A menagerie of red, blue, orange, yellow and white all danced as the explosion continued for a minute.

Suddenly, Zadicus stepped into the garden grounds as the music stopped at the start of the fireworks display. He cleared his throat and struck his staff on the ground twice as all eyes turned to him while he declared in a loud voice.

"Lords and Ladies, it is with great honor that I present to you. Sir Samuel of Cadia!"

All the guests turned their eyes upon the door that leads into the mansion as the master of the house stepped out. His long black hair was tempered with a pony tail now, as his violet eyes held everyone who gazed upon him. Wearing a maroon tunic, and a black long coat, he approached the veranda near the gathered throng of guest as a servitor served him with a goblet of wine.

"Greetings," his voice had a clear, crisp baritone tone in it as he gave his speech to everyone, "Esteemed Lords and Ladies, it is with great pleasure that you have allowed me to be your host this evening. From a land beyond this continent, the Empire has welcomed and embraced me, an unknown stranger and outsider in its bosom. I was allowed to purchase a home and allowed to make myself a living within this magnificent city."

Maes and other members of the Trading and Merchant Guild raised their wine goblets in salute.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart, to everyone here for bearing witness to the birth of our Trading House. A House which where we will strive to meet all the needs not just of the people who I call friends-" he gestured his glass to the group of nobles and traders who raised their own in salute, "-not just to the Military-" he gestured to General Carvain who also bowed in acknowledgement, "-and of course to the masses," finally he sought out and saluted Magistrate Tibian with his glass who also raised his own.

"Ave Imperium!" he declared loudly and raised his cup of wine.

"AVE IMPERIUM!"

The crowd chorused as they acknowledged and approved of his toast, he gave his cup of wine to a servitor as he descended down to the gardens where most of the guest converged on him, introducing, congratulating, socializing and basically doing the age old human tradition of 'pressing of the flesh'.

"Master Samuel, may I introduce Duke Hessian, their family owns the largest lumbering company in the Empire," Zadicus introduced them one by one as they shook his hand. Each and every person committed to memory, which greatly impressed his guest, "-the Duchess Vaian, her husband is currently ill, but sends his utmost congratulations in your settling in the Empire. They own a chain of apothecaries in the Empire- May I present, Count Mondeggo their family owns trading houses that deal with other governments outside of the Empire mainly with cotton and other agricultural products."

"We have Count Femel, he owns a silver mine and a coal mine on the hills bordering the Forest of Tob."

Sammael bowed and shook hands all around, the flood of people and names continued until he finally reached those people who did not clamor to get his attention. Magistrate Tibian, General Carvain, and Head Trader Maes and the people that arrived with them waited for him patiently as he entertained and greeted his guest one by one.

He walked up to them and shook hands with Magistrate Tibian, then Head Trader Maes, in the order that he had met and got acquainted with them. It was the Magistrate who stepped up and introduced the General and the Fallen Angel with each other, "General Carvain, meet Samuel of Cadia. Trader, former adventurer, and known connoisseur of the finer things in life."

The two men clasped hands and shook firmly, Sammael noted the strength of the human-like grip, noting that his strength belied his wizened appearance. The general however felt his pulse race, when he gripped the gloved hand, it was like clasping steel. He noted that the skin was as soft as a human, but when he squeezed it was like a piece of sculpted iron.

Hard and unyielding.

General Carvain felt power hidden within those hands, but then again he was also affable and would not dare to cross their generous host. He simply smiled and said, "I must thank you for inviting me, it is quite fortunate that I was at the Capital today and Field Marshal Tibian-"

"Field Marshal?" Samuel interjected, "My good Magistrate, you did not say you are a Field Marshal at all when we met."

Tibian chuckled at that, "That was a long time ago, plus I am RETIRED both legally and figuratively. Would you stop calling me that please, I am a Magistrate living easy on the borders of the Empire. You handle the military now, I'm done with it."

All three men gave a laugh at the light moment, "Thank you for coming General, it is a good thing that you were fortunately here. May I ask the reason why it is fortunate that you are here?"

"Ah! Since you are fairly new to the Empire, you might not have been informed yet, but our Empire has an annual war or skirmish with the Re-Estize Kingdom, hence the reason why I am here right now at the Capital."

"War you say?" Samuel said as he genuinely looked troubled, "From what I see on the Capital and the citizens, there does not seem to be too much preparation for war. Nor does it seem that the ordinary citizens are concerned about any large-scale war am I right? Isn't the autumn harvest coming soon? Who will harvest the fields then?"

The old Magistrate smiled at that, "Well, that is one of the good reasons why the Empire has a standing army. The common folks do not need to dabble with such things as war. As such, work and commerce can continue uninterrupted for us."

"Our Emperor is truly wise," the General nods his head in agreement, "With a regular standing army, there is no need to support the peasant levy. Plus, the far-flung governors, magistrates and nobles can focus on their steads and finance the Imperial coffers so that the citizens are protected by the standing army they indirectly maintain."

"Please don't take this wrong, but the bureaucracy that the Emperor has formed is a true blessing. Without the noble faction to control it and affect its duties, we common folks actually had a chance without being born rich," Master Maes took a swig of his wine and sighed, "Although I lost a number of my colleagues during the purge, they could have bent themselves to the Emperor and not earn his ire. Again, I mean no offense to you two, but as a person born as a commoner, only the military brought hope for advancement. However, with the reforms that the Emperor made, I see that trading can be more lucrative than any military career can."

The General shook his head in disbelief, "Well, you can always earn a little extra with all the procurement that the Imperial Army would be making considering the annual war is coming up. Plus, grain prices tend to go up when the Re-Estize Kingdom starts importing again from outside nations. I'm pretty sure that in a few years they'll be having a famine on their borders."

"When that time comes I am sure the army would be ready?"

"Of course."

"Its good to know, I need to stock up on my grain inventory and start selling it as soon as possible," Samuel quipped as the men with him laughed at his attempt of humor. They were all listening to the Magistrate about an experience he had with one of his commands before when a [Message] link came through his mind.

[Message]

"My Lord?"

"Yes Leliel?"

"A convoy of 9 carriages were spotted by one of our listening post. They reported that the horses were at full gallop heading here."

"Any flag that they're flying?"

"The flag of the Baharuth Empire's Royalty and the standard of the Emperor Himself."

"Zadkiel, are you listening?"

"Yes, Lord Sammel-"

"-then why are you still standing behind me? Go!"

"O-oh, y-yes my Lord!"

Zadicus quickly vanished from the throng of the crowd as he continued to entertain his guest, seemingly oblivious from the approaching Emperor.

"Leliel, do we have any updates on Baraqiel?"

"Well, let me just-"

"MAGOS the SCALLOPS! I need those SCALLOPS NOW!"

"-uh right, carry on then Leliel."

"Y-yes my Lord..."

Judging with Baraqiel's voice shouting through the din of communication, he would be hopefully ready soon. Cutting off the connection to his Angel, he walked around the groups of people and continued to play the part of a gracious host. Keeping his first acquaintances in arms length while reaching out to other people to chat them up and offer small talk. Flattery and loose tongues ran abound as the deceptively strong aperitif or pre-dinner drinks were served non-stop by brown robbed servitors. Music from the orchestra continued as they played concerto after concerto while more servitors began carrying and assembling a long table that extended the whole length of the 1st floor terraces.

"I must ask," Master Maes said as they made the rounds with Samuel among the crowd, "What is this music? It is quite melodious and very easy in the ears. Who is the name of the bard who composed this?"

"Ah, I am glad that you approve," Sammael smiled as they approached the musicians, "The bard's name is Johann Pachelbel and his composition is called 'Pachelbel Canon'."

"I must admit that I have not heard of him," Magistrate Tibian's forehead furrowed as he tried to remember any similarities he had heard before.

The Fallen Angel smiled at this, "It is of no surprise, I had encountered this music in one of my travels. The Kingdom was called 'Deutschland', it is a fine Kingdom that I encountered before I arrived on this continent. Unfortunately, my last news from my friends there was it was carved up by four other nations after a grueling war."

"That is quite unfortunate, I would like to have the chance to visit it at least-"

"-well Master Maes, that Kingdom is beyond this continent," Sammael sighed at the memory, "From the threat of raiders, pirates, treacherous seas and the distance itself. It would be a grueling journey that would take more than a year or two, I can't recall it anymore or I simply tried to block it out because its simply grueling to even remember the details."

"Oh, I do apologize if the memory upsets you," the Head Trader said profusely, "It was not my intention."

"I know, Master Maes, you are simply curious and wishes to know more," the Fallen smiled at that, "Perhaps another time when you visit my home again?"

Maes raised his cup and said, "I'll hold you to that Master Samuel."

There was a sudden commotion at the terrace as Imperial Knights marched from the entrance and every guest turned to the doorway as Zadkiel stepped out to and banged his staff twice on the ground.

"Presenting His Imperial Majesty! Protector of the Arwintar Realm, Patriarch of the El Nix Royal Line and Emperor of the Baharuth Empire, His Majesty Jircniv Rune Farlord El Nix," the blonde haired Emperor stepped out into the veranda as all citizens of the Empire bowed at his entrance, "-accompanied by the Imperial Court's High Wizard and Tri-Arts Magic Caster, Master Fluder Paradyne!"

As the Emperor and High Wizard began to greet the guests one by one, General Carvain smiled and asked, "Our Emperor rarely goes to gathering such as these. Was there anything special that you sent with the invitation that he deemed it worth of his time to come here."

Sammael grinned, "I went there personally, I introduced myself to him and he graciously agreed to come here."

They made their way towards the Emperor's entourage as the high power of the Empire greeted everyone. Finally, Samuel reached them as he bowed to the Emperor and said, "Your Imperial Majesty, you truly bring me great joy and honor by gracing us with your benevolent presence."

"You drive a hard line Master Samuel," the Emperor looks around as he grinned to the gathered guest, "You have gathered the last of the nobility, the educated, the military, judiciary and basically, every educated person of note in my Empire's bureaucracy. If I don't know better I would have think I have thrown this party myself. Though I must thank you for your courtesy of inviting me."

"I would never presume to forget to invite Your Majesty, this Empire has accepted me so openly in its embrace that what better way to show my gratitude and introduce myself by hosting a ball in honor of this glorious nation."

Emperor Jircniv was pleased with the answer given by Samuel as the Trader bowed submissively and cunningly showed that he kissed the symbol of the Emperor's power which is his Imperial Ring. The Fallen felt the sudden surge of surprise and anger from his Angels as it manifested with the blowing of the wind, but then again they somewhat calmed down when they remembered that they are in their mission. Satisfied with his status as Emperor, he walked off as Fluder looked down on the man who 'Little Jir' acknowledged as his new friend. His sharp eyes never left the mysterious trader as a gnawing curiosity began to grow within the old man. Many people know that the Tri-Arts Magic Caster can sense an entity's magic power and latent magical prowess by gazing on the auras that they exude, but then therein lies the issue.

The Trader Samuel and his assistants are all blank, it was as if they were a newborn child in spiritual strength, to be honest he felt less than that as actual newborns have a small fiery aura symbolizing the spark of life inside their small bodies. It was comparatively small compared to an adult person, but it was still there. However, these strangers are curiously blank and empty, it was like staring into the void, there was nothing in it and that made him extremely curious. He reigned in his emotions as he refused to be rude to their gracious host, as an Imperial Court Wizard, it would be very unbecoming of him to act so brazenly and openly question him about it.

No, there are other days that he can pursue such thoughts.

The sound of Zadicus hitting the stone floor again to get their attention broke all manner of conversation as Baramus finally stepped out of the kitchen as he declared in a loud voice, "Lords and Ladies, dinner is SERVED!"

Samuel congratulated his Angel for successfully managing the kitchens as he turned to the Emperor and gestured to the tables, "Your Imperial Majesty, shall we have you seated?"

"Very well."

The gathered throng of people were assisted by numerous brown robed servitors to their seats. Giving up his place on the head of the table, Sammael sat on the left side of the Emperor as the host of the evening, while the Emperor took the head position considering he is a guest of honor while Fluder and General Carvain took the right respectively. Emperor Jircniv looks down and scrutinized the tableware as he simply appreciates objects of such beauty and quality, taking particular note of the silverware as they glimmered in the soft candle lights that filled the night. Each and every one was shaped like a perfect leaf, its handle had an engraving similar to dragon scales and it terminated on the end part with the head of a dragon. At its other side was stamped the hallmark of the maker which was the 2 headed eagle, a symbol that is synonymous with the Trading House of Samuel of Cadia. Jircniv also took note of the plates that were laid before them, each of them had gold leaf covering the edges of the plate and the center showcased the twin headed eagle once more with golden filigree running through the whole edge of the plate that was made of kiln-fired ceramics. Even the goblets they used were made from the finest blown glass as it glittered and shone in the ight.

"Your Majesty,"Zadicus appeared beside him as he bowed in acknowledgement of his presences and said aloud, "Lords and Ladies, the first course is the hors d'oeuvres-"

Servitors began filing out of the house as they carried large silver trays with small cups of appetizers on them. All the guests waited patiently as they stared wide-eyed at the beautiful presentation of the appetizers. The smell that assaulted their senses was so divine that it brought immediate reactions of impatience to everyone including the Emperor. Without preamble, Jircniv and Fluder took their small spoons and ladled the soup with it, the soup was thick and its aromas was very rich and pleasing to the nostrils. As soon as the soup touched their lips and into their tongue, the flavors that was built up by the smell flooded his senses at the immensely enjoyable taste it had.

It was simply heavenly.

"W-What is this?" he asked after another spoonful of soup as Baramus smiled and patiently explained to the delight of the guests.

"Your Majesty, this dish is called 'Duck liver pate with pistachios and fromage forts," the cook said it with such style that the Emperor was even more pleased as he took another spoonful, "We had the duck locally obtained and fed until their liver reached a fatty consistency that would give this appetizer its primary flavor, the strong taste is countered by the neutral taste of the pistachios and the fromage forts acts as a sort of counter-balance between the two. Your Majesty, may I recommend that you dip the fromage forts on the pate and taste the difference."

"Very well," Jircniv did exactly as instructed and his eyes widened in surprise, the taste was enhanced further as the rich flavor of the dish complimented the cheesy bread. The other guests also did the same and all around were sighs of contentment and whispers of 'very good' and 'excellent' softly permeated the air.

After the hors d'oeuvres was finished, the servitors cleared their plates and another set came in with bowls of soup on their arms.

"For the 2nd course," Zadicus declared to the guests, "It is a soup called Bisque made from the strained broth of crustaceans-"

"Excuse me good sir, but what are crustaceans?" a nearby guest raised his hand and looked at the marvelous dish in front of them, "I believe I have never seen one before?"

"It is an animal that can be seen and obtained only at sea. It is not easy transporting them my Lord, fortunately we do have stockpiles of live crustaceans that we utilize for cooking."

Satisfied at the answer everyone dig into their Bisque and the results were the same.

"Amazing."

"Its creamy, with a taste that I can't place- I don't know."

"Buttery?"

"-something else entirely."

"So, this is what crustaceans taste like?"

Once the last of the guest scraped clean their soup bowl, the servitors came forward again and switched the used plate with another one.

"Our next course-" Baramus announced, "-will be a local fish grilled with a basil-based sauce, sprinkled in balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Please enjoy."

Taking his silver knife, Jircniv and the rest of the guest cut off a piece from their fish and their eyes widened again. They hurriedly cut off another slightly larger piece and puts it in their mouth chewing slowly and savoring the flavors currently roiling inside their mouths.

"Where did you get such succulent fish?" the Emperor inquired through mouthfuls, "I can't believe this is just river fish?"

"Yes, your Majesty," the Angel bowed and replied, "I believe the fish is a local salmon variant, this fish I find has an excellent firm flesh, highly graded where the meat does not disintegrate even if it is grilled."

Fluder nods in agreement as he hummed in satisfaction, "The slight sourness of the vinegar complements the fish perfectly."

The other guest murmured in agreement to the old man's assesment as free-flowing conversation floated here and there. All praises to the cook, the taste of the food, the Empire who allowed this noble to take root within their Empire, the overall opulence and grandeur, and of course their host with his graciousness during this ball. A clear beverage was served with the fish and the guest marveled at the taste of the wine they were drinking.

"What is this drink? It is not like the liquor that I have tasted before"

"Indeed," Sammael smiled and took a measured sip, "These are oaked Chardonnay, a robust white wine that complements the flavor of the fish."

The fish dish was served boneless much to the relief of the guest followed quickly by some tossed local greens with caramelized onions, mushrooms, sprinkled with aromatic vinegar, and chopped saffron with some fresh lavender thrown in. Zadicus explained the salad is typically served in between the fish dish and the main course to relax the palette and clean the taste buds. Finally, the servitors cleaned all the plates and switched it with the main course, as soon as the servitors lifted the silver 'cloche' to reveal the dish, even the Emperor's own eyes widened at the presented dish.

It was like a work of art with its glossy skin, colorful array of ingredients and wonderful aroma. Can food even be considered art work at all?

"Ladies and gentlemen, I hope not everyone is too full," Baramus smiled pleasantly as he presented the dish to them, "I present our main course for the evening. Roasted duck breasts with chantrelle salad and grated almonds."

All around pleased sounds of murmuring could be heard as everyone seemed all praises for the main dish.

"The pate that you have tasted for our hors d'oeuvre, came from the same birds that have been served to you. We coated the duck in a semi-sweet, coating that we burned slightly giving the bittersweet crust that beautifully goes with the juiciness of the duck. Sprinkled with chopped sugar-coated almonds to enhance taste, it is further complemented with a glass of Pinot Noir red wine that countered the richness and sweetness of the dish."

Emperor Jircniv hummed in agreement, "It is a unique way of cooking the duck, is it supposed to be sweet?"

"Such aptitude, you are truly a very fine connoisseur Your Majesty," Baramus bowed and smiled at the Emperor, "Indeed, the subtlety in the sweetness of the main dish is a prelude for a very special dessert."

The main course ended without much more fanfare as the majority of the guests were beginning to loosen their belts while the ladies were trying in vain to disguise their quiet burps of contentment. Coming to this dinner party to establish connection with such a man as Samuel was one of their best decisions, even the Emperor felt relaxed and somewhat sated with the luxury of the things he had experienced. If he had a half-right of mind he would have asked for his chef to work for him instead, though now would probably not the best time.

Servitors lined up around the tables and cleared the plates, they quickly cleared the dining table and reset the spread with smaller plates and dessert fork and knives. Amused, the Emperor looked to the Trader and asked, "More Courses Samuel?"

"Your Majesty," the Fallen smiled at the human leader, "I always say, that there is always more room for dessert."

Each and every eyes that saw looked in wonder as the servitors served glittering balls of gold on cue, the golden balls were arranged in a pyramid shape that was held together by what looked like golden threads that glittered in the light. They stood atop a white frosted base with symbols that honored the Baharuth Empire with the sigil of Samuel thrown in, which is the double headed eagle.

All the guest hungrily grabbed the numerous confections and found that the golden thread was melted caramel and sugar and the glittering golden balls were made from the softest bread that they have touched. While their mouths almost had an orgasm as the balls held a sweet surprise once you bite into them. Even Emperor Jircniv looked pleased at the separate five-tier pyramid of confection that was put in front of him, whereas Fluder and Samuel shared with the guest beside them.

"My goodness," Fluder breathed excitedly, "Master Samuel, I would like to congratulate your cook for this scrumptous feast and wonderful dessert. I have lived more than a hundred lives of men, yet I have not tasted something as wonderful as what you have served us today."

"I agree," the young Emperor shook his head in disbelief, "This is actually one of the time that I actually did not know the name of the food yet thoroughly enjoyed what I am served. Everything is new and truly delicious- these golden threads are like melted sugar and these confections are filled with such sweet and creamy fillings that I have truly never tasted before. Simply outstanding if I may say so myself."

"Your Majesty, my chef is truly delighted at your praises and in all honesty, this dessert is one of my favorite."

"What is it then?" Jircniv exclaimed.

It was Baraqiel who smiled and bowed at the same time, "Your words are truly kind Your Majesty, I am glad that our efforts in the kitchen has delighted you. This dessert is called a croquembouche, it is a variant of a cream puff pastry sprinkled with chopped almonds, pistachios and chocolates that is held together firmly by melted sugar strings that are quite brittle to the touch."

"Hmm, what about this white base? Is it another cake?" the Emperor asked as a servitor wordlessly sliced the white cake at the base and provided the monarch a serving on his plate, "It smells like- vanilla?"

"A keen sense of smell you have your Majesty, indeed, this dessert is called a macaroon cake. It is made with egg whites, confectionery sugar with a pinch of salt and vanilla. Sprinkled with any variants of nuts and beaten with a whisk or paddle until frothy, once it does though a mixture of flour can be included to create the batter for the sandwich of two layers."

Fluder gave a smack of satisfaction as Jircniv hummed appreciatively, "Procure me the ingredients later, I would like my personal chef to learn more about this uhh- exceptional confection."

"Of course," Baraqiel bowed as the guest filled themselves with the wonderful desserts, "As you command, Your Majesty."

.

The Emperor and Fluder together with all the other guests enjoyed the food immensely, the previous noble who owned this property could not even come close to the party that was recently thrown in by the new owners considering the old owners were dead at the Emperor's orders. The conversation floated through the sounds of the party and the music as each and everyone enjoyed to their heart's contents.

"Baramus," Samuel raised his hand as the servant bowed towards him at once, "An after-dinner drink and some tobacco for me- how about you your Majesty?"

"A strong drink would be appreciated."

"Of course your Majesty," Baramus bowed and then turned to the old man beside the Emperor, "How about you master Fluder?"

"I'll have the same," the Tri-Arts Master nods his head in agreement, "I'll have a half of that drink, I still need to read some notes later."

As Baramus walked away to provide their orders, the servitors cleared away their plates as Jircniv sighed contentedly.

"I am very satisfied with what you have done with the place, including this party that you have arranged-" the Emperor gave a sly smile, "-in the honor of the Empire?"

"Certainly your Majesty, shall I not honor the Empire that have opened its arms for a lost merchant that's floundering on a new continent? Though I must ask your Majesty, the tactics of choking your enemy for resources is a very smart idea."

"Whatever do you mean?" the Emperor turned to him and raised one of his eye brow, "Choking your enemy you say?"

"I was discussing this awhile ago with General Carvain, he told me that your annual battle with the Re-Estize Kingdom would be coming in a few months, I mean, should it not be delayed due to the autumn harvest that would sustain the country in the winter months? Yet, the military is actively planning about this annual skirmish without bothering the citizenry at all, I must say, all the hallmarks of a powerful, strong and intelligent leader."

Jircniv gave a small laugh, "I did not think it was obvious, but the plan I have set to bring down the Kingdom truly spanned at least a decade to fulfill."

"You are correct in your assumption Master Samuel, I indeed do not relinquish the claim of the Empire on the city of E-Rantel and annually threaten the Kingdom into attacking it during the autumn harvest- thank you," the Emperor smiled as a crystal copita filled half with the golden liquid known as a brandy was given to him and the man relished his first sip, "Oh that taste good- anyway, with the threat of my army looming. The Kingdom has no choice but to send out its army against it however, unlike our glorious Empire, the Kingdom is weak and does not maintain a large army. Thus, they rely greatly on their militias, peasant levy, and house troops of the nobles. This is an unwieldy sword that cannot be used effectively by any head of state considering their loyalty is to their lieges not to ME. And so, with the annual war slowly draining the coffers of the Kingdom, the Empire continues to increase its economy with the autumn harvest going unimpeded. Although, some lives, especially my Knights would be lost, a greater gain will come in the future."

"And they trust you and your word, Your Majesty," General Carvain raised his own copita to him, "We, the Legions wholeheartedly believe in the future you have promised us."

Samuel raised his own copita and repeated his previous toast, "Ave Imperium!"

"Ave Imperium!" and the men clinked their cups together.

.

The moon was on its highest arc when the Emperor bid his farewell, he was given a velvet box full of a new product call 'chocolate' and a separate small box of croquembouche that he can consume until tomorrow evening. A box of fine wine including a small chest with a ring, bracelet, necklace and a pair of earrings that were all set with the gems reminiscent of the colors of the Royal Family. The necklace had a pendant of a winged griffon and the Emperor was surprised that he could commission fine jewelry in such a short amount of time. The Emperor actually shook the hands of Master Samuel, a great honor in the Empire considering there are very, very few people that could actually touch the Bloody Emperor let alone stand so close to his person. Fluder was given the same sets of gifts, dark chocolates and a bottle of fine brandy so strong it flushed the old man's cheeks red with just half a cup.

One by one, each and every guest that came was sent off by Samuel as Zadicus and Baramus stood behind him. Offering their congratulations and goodwill, the guests all left with a bottle of wine as their sending off gift. A few of the guests had a little bit more than the rest, Master Maes the Guildmaster of the Trader's Guild was sent home with another bottle of red wine and a box of dark chocolates loaded with emotional 'enhancers' for the mood of the evening and to the enjoyment of his wife and their married life. General Carvain was sent off with a bottle of wine and dark chocolates as well, while Magistrate Tibian was given a bottle of 'bourbon' a drink he had acquired a particular fancy to considering its fuller and much more mature flavor than red wine.

As the last of the guests were sent off and their carriages raced off into the night, the Warmaster and his Generals including the maids all filed into the designated office of the Fallen. Servitors and Legionnaires had sealed and secured the grounds and ensured that no amount of eavesdropping could be done on the meeting as Sammael sat down on the head of the table and smile.

"Everyone take your seats, let us be quick for the night is late," he then turned to all the servants gathered before him and asked, "So, what did we learn tonight?"

Zadkiel bowed first and said, "My Lord, the nobles are talking mostly about you. Their opinion of you is quite high considering they know nothing of you, though the endorsements of Master Maes and Magistrate Tibian was quite high."

"True," it was Leliel who interjected, "I did not expect that Magistrate Tibian was a former Field Marshal of the Imperial Knights. General Carvain's opinion of you actually increased with the way the Magistrate treated you. I suppose he would have been more closely guarded about himself if the Magistrate was not here to ease up some of the tension. Even some of the officers have admired the old Magistrate and in relation to that have also expressed positive things about you Lord Sammael. Although..."

"Yes Leliel?"

"My Lord, it has come to my attention that Fluder Paradyne has some skill in the divine arts and was constantly trying to read our strengths, fortunately, the restrictive rings that Lord Ainz have given us concealed our strength and true nature," Leliel took out a small notebook and read off cue words he had written awhile ago, "Additionally, I have also learned of the composition of the Imperial Military and some of their notable leaders in case we need to target a few for liquidation. My conversations with General Carvain also yielded military strong points and positions that we can hit, he was quite open to the information once I mentioned that we would be expanding our trade routes through all areas that are beyond the borders of the Empire."

The Fallen rubs his chin in appreciation, "Excellent work, Baramus, do you have anything to add?"

"Not much my Lord," the Angel shook his head, "Though I was bombarded with questions by mostly ladies about the dishes and a few inebriated nobles about the status of Yuri Alpha's marital status."

"Well, that is to be expected," Sammael sighed, "Considering 'Yamaiko-san' made Yuri from her image, she had that prim lady beauty on her."

Yuri Alpha blushed at that, she didn't know that her image was taken from the perfect form of her creator, "I did not know that Sammael-sama? Was I truly made after my creator's likeness?"

"Indeed you are Yuri," it was the Fallen's turn to smile, "Your creator made you in the humanoid form that she had selected if she would be somewhat 'human' in appearance. And you must be proud of what you look like at all times."

"Of course, I am most honored by this knowledge My Lord."

"Umu, moving on then, I expect a report on all the details that you all have been made aware today. All generals will have a meeting on 0900 hours of this day after breakfast," he then turned to the two maids and said, "As for you two, Yuri Alpha and CZ Delta, accept my gratitude for you both have arranged this ball in such a short time frame and in such a scale that have made the opinion of these people of me to increase. I am definitely glad of your efforts and I shall think of a reward for the both of you when I get back to the Great Tomb."

Both Yuri and CZ bowed at the same time, "It is a great honor and pleasure to serve the Warmaster of Nazarick. We are glad to be of use to you."

"Excellent," the Fallen waved his left hand and a [Gate] spell opened on the side, "You may return to Nazarick, you will take a break and then return to your duties after. I shall expect your reports on every information you have gathered at the ball later within the day, you can have it sent to me or to any of my Generals."

The two maids bowed again and then stepped through the opened [Gate], Sammael waved his hand again and closed it as he stood up and stretched his somewhat exhausted body.

"Generals, we are adjourned for the day. I will expect your reports on the meeting that we will have on 0900 hours. Get updates on the ongoing projects that we have and I want one of you to contact Demiurge regarding my current 'project' and his current performance inside the Theocracy, is that clear?"

Zadkiel, Baraqiel and Leliel stood up straight and banged their chest, "As you command, Lord Sammael," and they all filed out of the Supreme Being's office leaving him alone inside.

As he was left alone, the Fallen walked over to a set of lounge chairs and comfortably sat himself down. The fire place in front of him had a crisp fire going as he tried to gather his thoughts of the recent event. True, the foods were very reminiscent of the Old World, and technically, he does not need any nourishment considering he is technically an Angel. But he could not dismiss the feeling of being very thorough of his works and so he took out a small diary and began writing about his experiences.

Even during his time in the Special Forces and in the Navy with his own 'command' at the sea, he always had a journal with him that allowed him to unload most of what he was thinking or feeling at that time. Though now, aside from unloading on his journal, there was another way for him to impart some of his thoughts. Judging it is the perfect time as any, he activated the [Message] spell and reached out to the person he wanted to speak with.

'Satoru-san?'

'Ah! Youji-san, I was wondering when you would reach out. Oh! How was the party?'

'It went perfectly, we were able to establish relations with the Emperor and met a few interesting characters.'

'Not much, I am at Carne Village now and I'm escorting a well-known pharmacist in the Kingdom... although I might have a tiny problem with this.'

'Why? What happened?'

'Remember the village girl that we saved with the Warrior-Captain of the Kingdom?'

'Yeah, her name was- uhh, her name was Enri right?'

'-and remember that person that she said was her friend? The magic caster friend? Well, he is my client right now.'

'Okay, so the magic caster friend is also a well-known pharmacist and apothecary, so?'

'Turns out their childhood friends you see and-'

'What's the problem?'

'Uhh... well, there was a brief scuffle at the Kingdom and I somehow paid a female adventurer with our potion from Yggdrasil.'

'I see no problem with that, you suck at women sometimes but-'

'-except she showed it to a well-known pharmacist, who I mentioned is my client right now.'

'Th-that's not good-"

'-aaand Narberal sort of slipped Albedo's name too being my betrothed and somehow the pharmacist kind of connected one and one together and he basically found out on his own that I am Ainz Ooal Gown.'

Sammael sighed heavily as he tried not to tear out his hair in frustration, 'Wonderful, just wonderful, we have an example of Murphy's Law at work right here. I mean, why would you dole out potions carelessly anyway? Here I am trying to possibly destabilize a nation and your doling potions out?'

'I'm sorry, but it can't be helped at all. We had a brief scuffle with some locals and Narberal would have easily killed them all considering the way our NPC's look out for us,' Momonga's voice was a bit panicked as he remembered the scenario at the bar, 'Azrael wasn't much of a help either, he was just standing there looking and not moving nor speaking as if expecting something to happen.'

'Uh yeah, naturally Azrael would do nothing in that situation except those that you ordered considering that is his directive. Additionally, the Angels would not move hastily unless there is a blatant reason for it or there is a perceived danger or threat to your well-being. Is a Level 5 Adventurer a threat to us Level 100 beings anyway?'

'Be that as it may, I had to exchange something since I was basically broke and didn't have any semblance of money with me.'

'Why did you not just pay her or something? You could bury her in gold if you want to.'

'I can't. I'm broke! I don't have Imperial nor Kingdom money- I'm freaking broke!'

'What lunacy are you talking about!?' Sammael exclaimed in his mind, 'You have a whole tomb full of gold and- wait, you know what I'll send you money the first time that we finished minting our Imperial gold coins how's that?'

'Wait- wait a minute? You're counterfeiting money!?' Ainz voice sounded scandalized, 'Why would you do that Sammael-kun!? Isn't that illegal?'

'It's a necessary evil, I'm destabilizing a country and I had to get close quickly to the powers of the Empire and so far I have succeeded in meeting the Emperor, the most powerful Magic Caster they had who I think is very suspicious of us, and the top brass of the military, judiciary and trade guilds.'

'All within one week? You're so good at this!'

'Stop, your making me blush, anyway open a Gate and join me in our stronghold within the Baharuth Empire, we must plan together what we need to do in the future.'

'Wait, I need to give reminders to both Azrael and Narberal first-'

The [Message] spell terminated as the Fallen sat back on his chair and stretched his body. After a few more minutes of waiting, a swirling void opened not far from him and out stepped a warrior clad in full black plate armor.

"Ah! Sato- what the heck? You're using that armor again?"

"W-well, I needed a disguise you know. I can't be seen using powerful magic as that might look too suspicious considering the Re-Estize Kingdom's Warrior-Captain had recently been saved by a powerful magic caster."

"Yeah, yeah... just admit, it was your pet peeve to swing a sword around too. And your racial trait does not allow you to do so right?"

"T-that too of course," the Overlord would blush if he could as he cleared his non-existent throat and dispelled the conjured armor, "-I could have gotten the Martial Overlord, but I could not even get close to my favorite spell with that."

"You mean [Grasp Heart] huh? It did have a penalty for melee types right, it becomes short range if I am not mistaken."

Ainz sat down across Sammael as he watched him open a lacquer box and took out a 4-inch cigar out. He took out 3 long matchsticks and lighted one while slowly rolling the trimmed tip of the cigar on the gentle fire, "Exactly, it would be hard tactically for me to make adjustments to my fighting style, but you are correct. I have somewhat envied all our other melee oriented friends on their ability to use their martial equipment to good use, while we of the squishy kind tend to stay and support at the back."

"I know what you mean, thus, I opted to be a melee oriented support."

The Overlord poured two glasses of fine whisky from a fine bottle that he took from a side table where he sat, "I forgot you were a melee magic caster, was it really hard to fight and cast support and offensive magic at the same time?"

"Not really, I was used to fighting like that. I suppose making a change on your racial class or combat type takes quite a dedication huh? I mean, you needed to alter everything, the way you move, the way you fight, including your HUD back then."

"Right," he took the offered cigar and watched as Sammael repeat the process for his own cigar.

"So, aside from your pleasurable company, what do you think we should do to proceed further?"

With cigar and a half-glass of strong liquor on the the other hand, Sammael sighed and said, "We need to know more about this place, we need to know if there are still players around. If there are none then perhaps their artifacts or wargear has been left behind, their influence has been certainly left considering there is Tiered magic here, not to mention some of their progeny that remained and somehow survived."

"Do tell me more about that? I have read on the report with the 'contact-less conversation' that they done with Nigun after his 'vigorous questioning' was done is that the 6 Great Gods have names that I am familiar about and have heard before back in the game."

Sammael shrugged his shoulders, "No doubt I have also read the report and have concluded that it is certainly possible. The 6 Great Gods are players, along with the 8 Greed Kings, the Evil Deities, even some of the Thirteen Heroes that still lived. I want to meet them at least and talk to know and assess what stance we should take against them."

"Do tell me more," Ainz took a sip of the whiskey and a warm feeling flooded his senses, he should not be able to do this, but since he had somewhat 'concentrated' his mind in the thought of consuming food and liquids, he found that it would not just slip through his bones. Rather, it would vanish magically as soon as it passed through his bony teeth, like he still has flesh throughout his body.

Thank God for that as it offered a brief semblance to his humanity.

"I took note of the stories shared to me by my guests during the dinner party that I have hosted, they spoke of other extraordinary beings. One of them, which is the Eight Greed Kings who established a still surviving kingdom called 'Eryuentiu', a floating city in the middle of the desert just south of the Theocracy. It was the reason why the God of Death 'Surshana' of the Theocracy fell, he was killed by the 'Eight' other players."

"Eh!? Surshana!? I remember that guy, he was one of the last Undead Overlords that existed with me" the name brought a surge of familiarity within Ainz, "I once met him when I was clearing a dungeon in the Jormungand Seas, we were not friends at all, yet we respected our space and went our separate ways."

Sammael took a long drag out of his cigar and savored the woody flavor of the smoke and the oil on his somewhat angelic lips, "So, you knew one of the so-called Gods huh. At least now we have confirmation that they were really players just like us transported to this world. This somewhat complicate matters, since we do not know how they will react to what we are doing in case we meet another one like us. Do you want me to continue?"

"Please do," Ainz nods eagerly as he drained his liquor and poured himself another, "Want more?"

"I am still good thank you, though I have heard also of Evil Deities who appeared 100 years after the Eight Greed Kings," waved off the bottle as his goblet was still somewhat had ample amounts of brandy, "Which I believe is their NPC's that went rogue after their demise. Of course after that then the 13 Heroes came out who also defeated them."

"So, the 13 Heroes are also Players?"

"I'm not sure, I plan to trace the origins of these stories and disguise myself as a prolific trader from the Empire."

"I see, anyways, the twins have something to report to you-"

"The twins!?" Sammael's eyes twinkled with delight and excitement, "Where are they!?"

"Relax, you elf-con, I swear you're as worse as Peroroncino," Ainz breathed out smoke and sighed, "They found an unknown Treant, although it is a sleeping one, like it is waiting for something or like an attack-event back in the game. Why don't you check it out?"

The Fallen shrugged his shoulders and lazily blew out smoke then took a sip from hi glass, "A treant is a lot of work, not to mention their HP is off the scale if its part of an 'attack-event' considering they were designed to outlast even your patience as you fight them off. I mean, wat's our tactical advantage once we kill it anyway? And why don't you check it out, you're currently the nearest one to it."

"I'll be returning to E-Rantel tomorrow with my charge," Ainz reasoned, "Plus, one good thing about toppling the treant is that we can conquer the whole Forest of Tob and consolidate our influence with the numerous heteromorphic races in the forest."

"But the task of fighting a top-tier monster is daunting my friend, not that it can kill us so easily considering we have immunity to Instant-Death, but the amount of HP it has is troubling. I mean, can we really do it on our own? Usually, it's a whole party that take down a tree of this class, " Sammael took out a map and pointed to an area near Carne Village, "Reports from the 'Stellarum Nex' shows there are numerous tribes of heteromorphic races, Goblins, an Ogre clan, numerous lizardmen villages, and elves which I believe is excellent exposure for the twins. Though we did detect the 'treant' we would have no tactical usage over it and is located on a ring of decay and death that it could not even moved away from."

"Perhaps it is trapped by its location, maybe it cannot move due to it unable to replenish its strength. A treant is only as strong as the amount of replenishment it takes, perhaps it is trying to reach the Azerlisia Mountain?"

That got Sammael's attention, "Perhaps it is its goal, considering a Mountain contains a dense pool of mana in itself, though the exertion has probably drained it of its ability to move-"

"-not including the ruins of an Elven City within its vicinity, which might contain information about the Elves of this place, thus, helping the twins right?"

Ainz focused at Sammael as the last statement froze the Warmaster, he kept silent until the Fallen said, "M-maybe we can use it for XP training at least. V-very well, I shall look into the feasibility of securing this treant if possible."

Satisfied, Ainz and Sammael continued their meeting until the first rays of light from the sun were seen from the horizon.

.

.

E-Rantel

.

'Oh god kill me now-'

Ainz thought wryly as he bobbed up and down on the cobblestone streets. His client Nfirea Bareare had returned safely from their gathering trip, the Sword of Darkness adventurer successfully defended him from raiding goblins and ogres, and the heroic adventurer Momon managed to tame a 'Legendary Beast'. He could not believe his non-existent ears as he heard the humans showering the so-called beast with adulation and praises, perhaps he had not seen it or he was maybe too much of a skeptic, but considering this animal was treated as great then he could not possibly let them see Fenrir or even any of the truly Legendary monsters that Aura kept in reserve inside her collection.

As such, a creature that greatly resembled a hamster now bobbed in between his legs as it proudly strutted on the streets. If he could blush he would have already done so, his skeleten would burst at the marrows if only he could as embarassment flooded through him. His traitorous 'passive' is not activating no matter the amount of embarassing jolt he had to endure as his group and now bystanders gawked at the insanely huge hamster.

'-oh fucking hell, help me and kill me now! This is shameful!'

"Look! It is a Legendary beast, look at the wisdom and might in its eyes. The man riding it must be a great man!" , 'No! I'm a salaryman... I WANNA GO HOME!'

"Mama, look, that man is riding something big!" , "Yes son, he is PROUD of his mighty steed and his prowess in cowing it into submission. He is riding it to show his skill in subjugating it."

'I feel like an old man on a Merry-go-Round, stop looking you- oh my god is she even strutting?'

The Djungarian Hamster, previously called as the Wise King of the Forest strutted her fluffy body and swished her prehensile tail proudly in the air. Ainz wanted nothing more than to fold into a ball or close his eyes so that he could not see the looks of admiration from everyone, especially since he could not see anything admirable with what he was doing right now. Hamsters are known in the Old World as small and fluffy balls of puffy fur that do nothing all day except eat their seeds and roll around on their nests made of wood shavings. This hamster that he somehow tamed though is not just a small ball of fur as this monstrosity can stand 20 feet tall at the shoulders, have fur that are as hard as plate armor, claws that could eviscerate any armored soldier with just one swipem and a prehensile tail that could bend and turn 180 degrees to the other direction. It would take an Orichalcum-class adventurer group to take down one of these, but against the Overlord's overwhelming might and magic, all it took was single burst of his dense aura and the enemy had been cowed.

Aura requested its pelt to be skinned and display, unfortunately, he had grown fond of the insignificant creature and have allowed her to live. Like a beloved pet that doted on you when your sad, similar to a dog or a cat, he couldn't truly see this pet of his to be synonymous to its former epithet 'Wise King of the Forest' at all. But he refrained the Elven child to harm her, for this creature reminded him of the Old World and for that he would preserve her. Indeed, 'collecting' such a creature seemed trivial, but he thought that this hamster could be quite useful to the Great Tomb of Nazarick.

"I must go to the Guild to register my pet since it could be troublesome in the future if we always get stopped every time we go into a city, how about everyone else?" Ainz or Momon in this instance declared as they reached teh crossroads that lead to the house of the Bareare's and to the Adventurer's Guild.

"It would be time consuming if we accompany you all the way back to the Guild," Dyne Woodwonder replied as he gestured to the cart that is laden with numerous herbs and spices, "I propose we split up and take the client back home, we still need to unload a whole cart load of herbs."

"Agreed," Ainz turned to the Warrior Monk and ordered, "Azlan, accompany them and ensure their safety."

"I will do as you say," the disguised Angel General bowed and accompanied them.

Nabe and Momon then headed to the direction of the Guild house when a voice called out to them, "I'll see you later my lovely Nabe!"

The Overlord didn't need to turn around as he heard her teeth grinding together in annoyance, "I'll tear your eyes out you water flea-"

.

They were all walking towards the Bareare home when Lukrut, with his infinite tactlessness asked the Warrior-Monk, "Azlan-san, it seems you are familiar with master Momon's past, can you tell us a little about what happened to the comrades of Momon-san?"

The Angel gave a small laugh and shook his head, "I am sorry Lukrut-san, but if Momon-sama does not wish his story shared, then we can only hope that he will share the story on his own. Believe me, I do not wish to lose the trust of Momon-sama and I will not betray it by telling you stories to sate your curiosity."

Dyne and Peter can only smile as Ninya teased, "Oh, did that hurt at all Lukrut?"

"I won't give up so easily, how about Nabe-chan?" his eyes betrayed the feelings of infatuation on his heart, "Such beauty cannot go so long without a companion, is she single? Does she have a boyfriend or anything?"

Again, the Angel gave a small laugh, "Maybe the man she likes is a dignified warrior, not someone who obviously falls head over heels for her."

"Ooh, burned again?" Ninya grinned at that, "How much more huh? How much more are you going to take?"

"B-but we're really lucky that Momon-san, who is actually a mighty warrior came with us," Peter sighed and smiled at the sight of the dark warrior in action, "I mean the way he swung his sword and killed those Ogres with 1 hit, I have never seen anything like it."

Nfirea kept silent as he listened to their chatting, to think such a mighty individual would be the savior of Carne Village. He had other servants aside from Nabe and Azlan, and according to Enri, there was another one like him. One that is as powerful as he is. It was frightening to know that such individuals are currently living normal lives with them, he would not have thought it possible, but the proof was right in front of him awhile ago. Laughter rang through the group as everyone tried to tease Lukrut and his failed advances towards Nabe.

"She will be mine! Oh yesss- she will be mine!"

Peter laughed at this as he reminded their ranger about her abilities as a magic caster, "Remember, a rank 3 spell is a simple matter to her. Don't piss her off too much."

"I know, I know," the ranger grinned, "I'll be careful. Perhaps I should switch gears and I could become more dignified with my affections, like Momon right?"

Reaching the Bareare House, Azlan immediately frowned at it. Even Nfirea wondered as he alighted from the wagon as the members of the Adventurer group all took a pot or urn of herbs.

"Strange," the pharmacist clutched a small urn of herbs and opened the door, "Why are all the lights off? Is grandmother not home?"

"Maybe your Grandma Lizzie is at the market?" it was Dyne who suggested it, "Late night shopping for tomorrow perhaps?"

"You have a point," the young man conceded as he pointed to the ground where they could all put the wares they were carrying. Azlan intentionally allowed himself more time to gather more of the produce as the rest of the Sword of Darkness went inside with the client.

As they all trooped inside and headed for the back room, Nfirea was about to ask if they would enjoy some tea when a shadow moved from the corner of his eye. He lighted a gas lamp and he, rather they saw a blonde young woman stepping out of the shadows clutching a stiletto in her hand. Her blonde hair was cut short at the shoulder and she was quite attractive, but something about her countenance does not seem right. Like there was something hidden within her, something 'broken' or 'twisted' it seems.

Dangerous, yes, that assessment was quickly reached by all of them as she gave her small impish laugh.

"Are you perhaps Nfirea Bareare-kun? I was waiting for you, you know," the woman's voice was high and playful, child-like almost as she leered at them dangerously, "I was getting lonely here in the dark, but you opened the lights and I finally... see you."

"Who are you?" Peter and Lukrut drew their swords as they stood in front of the client, ready to defend him with all they have, "What is your business here?"

"-and you brought friends! How lovely to have someone to play with!" the glint in her eyes intensified as she licked her lips dangerously.

Dyne and Ninya also joined Peter and Lukrut as they circled their client, forming a defensive ring for his protection, they were all focused on the woman when an elderly voice came up from behind them.

"We are short of time, stop playing with them Clementine. We need the target immediately."

The woman's face visibly soured and frowned as she bared her sharp teeth at them, "I'm just teasing them Khajit, you're no fun you know," taking out another stilleto they all felt she was about to pounce on them.

"Who dies first then?"

"Ninya, take Nfirea-san and retreat towards the Guild, this woman is very dangerous," Peter also drew his shield as Lukrut stayed behind him, Dyne also turned around and faced Khajit as their leader exclaimed, "Go, we'll hold them off!"

"No!" Ninya protested, "I'll stay and fight!"

"Such foolishness, I'll play with you extra hard you know, I'll take my time and-" in a blink of an eye, the former Black Scripture Clementine vanished from their eyes as Peter felt a sharp pain on his left shoulder. But before he can turn and face the threat, a leather boot was coming from the right and he could not evade in time as the roundhouse kick clipped him in the forehead. Dazed and bleeding from the shoulder, he felt someone rush past him and saw through the haze of blood on his eyes that Lukrut was not clashing with the assassin. He tried to stand up and saw what was happening when he felt someone crash into him, it was Lukrut and he had a similar wound on his right shoulder. Dyne engaged the old man with the gnarled staff and so far, not one of them seemed to be moving from where they were standing. The female assassin somehow managed to wound their ranger and then threw Lukrut towards him who was still stumbling half-blinded with his own blood. peter tried to wipe the blood on his eyes that impaired his vision, but there was so much blood from his nose and a wound on his forehead that opened causing to spill more of his blood on his leather armor.

'This is fuckin' hopeless! We need to get Nfirea-san away from here!'

"Allow me to help," a calm voice suddenly spoke out loud as he finally cleared the last vestiges of blood that reached his eyes.

It was the magic caster that came with Momon-san, he carried no weapons on his body and he looked woefully unarmed against the dangerous woman.

"Oh? the woman giggled darkly, "Another playmate I see, you're all so kind to have come here."

Peter opened his mouth to shout out a warning, "Careful Azlan-san, she's blindingly fast!" but she vanished immediately from his sight.

A loud clang could be heard as he looked in shock at the scene before him, the dangerous stiletto that she wielded with ease rested on the cuirass that he wore. Her thrust that was so fast for the naked eye was caught easily by Azlan, the magic caster's right hand was also held back as the woman's eyes widened.

"You've got some skill-" the former Black Scripture grinned darkly at him.

"-and your wide open," Azlan opened his right palm and magic circles formed immediately, "4th Tier magic [Vi Dis]"

A force so strong seemed to emanate from the Monk and suddenly the woman named Clementine was flung away like a ragdoll. He sent her flying through a wooden wall as all eyes, even Khajit's stared back in disbelief. Ninya and Nfirea's mouth hung upon as Peter and Lukrut finally recovered and approached them at once. All their thoughts concentrated on one thing, 'What the hell was that!?'

'Perhaps that was a bit- nah, too late for that anyway,' Azlan shrugged his shoulders and then turned to the necromancer, "Looks to me like its your turn now."

"WAIT!" a scream from outside made them turn towards the Clementine-sized hole on the wall, "Who said I was done with you! I'll make you pay for that you dipshit! [Ability Boost], [Greater Ability Boost] [Flow Acceleration] [Greater Evasion] [Pace of the Wind] [Invulnerable Fortress]."

"Prepare to die-!" once more there was a rush of air as she vanished from their sight. Unfortunately for her, Azlan could see her coming like she was being held down by molasses.

Clementine could not understand it, her speed should be beyond what normal human beings are capable of and what warriors can even attain with their training. But not only did her strike get intercepted, she actually saw him smile as he allowed her weapon's tip to get close to his armor and at the last second grasped the hand holding the weapon effectively stopping it. If she did not activate her Martial Art, she would probably be hurt by the velocity she was travelling with and its abrupt stop.

It was unfathomable and impossible.

So ,she had no choice but to pour everything on this strike. This was a stain on her honor and she would not suffer this magic caster to live. She squinted her eyes as she aimed for the spot right between his eyes. Again, her enemy smiled just before he reached her and he actually took a stance as he prepared to counter-attack.

All in a span of a millisecond.

"[Spatium Tenaci]" her forward thrust suddenly stopped by magic, numerous magic circles were opened on his left hand as she saw him open his right hand again as the observers all stared with their mouths open, "You never learn do you woman? Twin maximixe 4th Tier magic [Vi Dis Secundus]"

"KYAAH!"

Clementine sailed backwards once more with so much force they heard a dull thud as she smacked on the wall of a neighboring dwelling. The necromancer clicked his tongue irritably as he waved his gnarled staff and exclaimed, "Useless woman, [Shield Wall]," and he vanished behind the darkness of the unlit corridor. The Angel did not relax and kept his guard up as Peter and his party rallied back to him.

"Everyone okay?" Peter finally recovered as he shook his head to remove the cobwebs of dizziness, "Nfirea-san? Are you good?"

"Damn, what was that?" Lukrut gasped as he knelt beside Ninya, his head wound was bleeding profusely as their mage tried casting a Tier 1 Healing spell.

"Don't relax yet, they will be coming a second time-"

As soon as he said these words, the Shield Wall dispelled and three zombies came shambling inside. The door was soon full of the undead as the party of adventurers formed a defensive perimeter around Ninya and Nfirea. Azlan confidently stood in front of the door and turned to Peter, "Will you be able to hold?"

"No problem," the leader of the party nods his head, "Can you handle the source? We will protect the client."

Azlan smiled and advanced forward, his every strike pulverized every zombie within range. Those that shambled inside and approached him first get their head blown off with his sheer physical might. The members of the party stood up with their mouths hanging open, are all the party members of Momon-sama as powerful as he is?

Considering the way he handled these undead so easily with a swing of his fist, then that is without a doubt a yes. The zombies were relatively slow in their movement, but they are quite strong. But with the attack of the Angel as he swung his fist around, the force of its air pressure easily pulverized his targets. Add to that the inability of their enemies to even dodge or block the blow, these zombie can only overwhelm them in large numbers. He led the way as the members of the Sword of Darkness took care of any stragglers that managed to get past him. With Azlan leading the way they easily reached the outside and saw a glimpse of the escaping form of the necromancer with the female assassin draped over his shoulders. He thought about pursuing them, but that would leave their client undefended and that is something he could not do.

So, he puts his palms together and casts his spell.

"Cast 5th-Tier magic, [Imbrem Lux]"

A magic circle appeared beneath his feet as Ninya stared wide-eyed at the mana pouring out of Azlan right now. As a hero under the party of Momon-sama, he could not pursue the enemy while their minions, the zombies, are still shambling around the area. Lord Ainz would be displeased if he would leave such monsters inside a city. As such, there was no way but to use a purging spell, a pulse radiated from where he stood as the members of the Sword of Darkness watched as each and every undead caught in the wave was expunged with fire. It could still survive after being hit with the first wave, but a second wave soon followed that purged them into ash. The 5th tier spell was harmless to humans as it only purged those that carried the light of the undead within them. It was a channeling spell that did not allow one to move from where he stood as Peter sheated his sword and took a swig of water from his water container.

"Where are they?" he turned to Lukrut.

The ranger massaged his smarting head, "I caught a glimpse of the zombies coming from the sewers, I suppose they will escape through there."

Finally, the last of the zombies was expunged as Ninya walked towards the warrior-monk and looked up at him with full-on admiration, "Azlan-san, I have never seen that spell before? Are you perhaps also a Monk and a Cleric at the same time?"

"I am not sure young w- young man, but I have taken training in all aspects of magic that utilizes the light," the Angel smiled at her, he was aware of her insecurities as a woman and tried not to expose her from her party, "That particular spell is deadly for the undead that touched the light, for it is a wave of light energy that banishes all manner of darkness it touches. It might not be effective on the first wave, but the consecutive cleansing wave would indubitably weaken and finally banish a more stronger foe."

"Still, it was wonderful to behold. It was more powerful than all the banishment spells I have seen a priest of the 6 Gods had performed, in fact, it looks superior to what I have seen before."

"It has its drawbacks of course, as you can see, I cannot move away so easily. And I must maintain concentration or the spell would terminate too early before all the enemy has been purged." Azlan smiled as they heard and saw the large mount of Momon-sama running towards them, to be honest, the hamster actually looked cute from where he stood right now.

"Azlan!" a deep voice called out from afar as they saw Hamsuke carrying Momon, Nabe and an elder woman on her back. They waited for his arrival as the elder woman jumped down from the fluffy monster with a nimbleness that belied her years. She found her grandson behind Dyne and Ninya as relief flooded her face with him being safe and unharmed.

"How are you my boy?"

"I am alright grandmother, these adventurers were so brave and did not allow me to be hurt at all."

Momon alighted from the hamster and asked, "Who were those people?

"They're definitely not thieves," Azlan shook his head and gestured towards their client, "They took nothing of note from your stores and seemed to target Nfirea-san and kidnap him, but for what purpose we do not know."

Lizzie Bareare's face changed as she shook her head in disbelief, "It is because of your 'talent' Nfirea."

"Talent?" the dark warrior tilted his head in wonder, "What do you mean talent?"

"When a person is born in this world, he or she can have an innate talent that would be useful in his life," the most well-known pharmacist rubbed her chin in thought, "Some people do not even discover they have talent at all, while some discover it at an early stage."

An idea seemed to form inside Ainz's head as the concept of this talent is entirely new to him, "Your talent must be really something to invite such an open attack from a powerful organization."

"Indeed, my grandson can use any magical item and I mean ANY magical item," Lizzie's words shook Ainz, if the young man can use any item, will it be possible for him to use even their Guild weapon perhaps? "Any type of magical item from weapons, accessories even clothing would be usable by Nfirea. All restrictions like racial, conditional, or training needed to use the item are all nullified once he uses an item."

"I see," his words were short, but Ainz finally understood why a person such as Nfirea could be a threat to their security. He would only need to hold an item, like a World Item and he could use it so, or even wield the Staff of Ainz Ooal Gown and he would be unrivaled. Perhaps even the Tomb would obey him since he could use the Staff.

This revelation made him want to keep Nfirea closer to him even more.

"In any case, we cannot let an enemy wander inside E-Rantel," Momon declared as he tasked each and every one of the steps they would take, "We must take action as such, me and Azlan will pursue the enemy and try to root them out. The Sword of Darkness and Nabe with Hamusuke would escort Nfirea-san to the Adventurer's Guild and secure his safety."

"Agreed," Peter forlornly said, with the skill of the woman and the unknown old man with the gnarled staff, what can they do? He had no choice but to seek asylum at the Guild Base and hopefully, arrange to root out the enemy while being of great help to Momon. They marched off to their destination as Momon and Azlan quickly headed to their inn to gather their thoughts.

"So, what did you see?"

"His energy signature gravitates to the undead," Azlan walked briskly behind him, even fully armored the two of them walked faster than most humans could, "A necromancer perhaps my Lord."

"Umu, alert the Tomb, there could be a potential attack that they have not noticed. Send word to Sammael and update him of our current movements."

They marched into the inn as he raised his hand and the front desk person nodded with familiarity, they barricaded themselves into their room as Ainz dispelled his summoned helm. He turned away from the Angel who closed his eyes as he tried to contact Nazarick. Their communication array that they constructed on the Great Tomb was not yet finished, but smaller modes of equipment that increase your magical capabilities for messaging someone can still reach the Tomb. Ainz tried to trace their enemies and began casting numerous magic of protection and warding.

"General Azrael? Do you have any word from Lord Ainz?" a sweet voice answered

"Yes, Lady Albedo we are under attack and-"

"HURR-WWWWHAAATTTTTT!?" Ainz did not notice as Azrael's eyes shot open and blood trickle from his nose from the sensory overload sent by Albedo's outburst, "I shall send A LEGION AT ONCE TO DESTROY THE ONES FOOLISH ENOUGH TO ATTACK MY BELOVED!"

"C-calm dow-"

"OUR ARMIES WILL SWEEP THEM FROM THIS LAND, LO AND BEHOLD, THEIR DESTRUCTION IS NIGH! WAAAGGHHHH!"

"C-calm down Lady Albedo and let me finish, we are not being attacked per se, rather we have suffered an attack and we would definitely be encountering more of the enemy since they got away."

"I-I see," her demure voice returned as she cleared her throat, "I understand, what does Lord Ainz wishes to do?"

"Be on alert. Additionally, if you can send word to the Battle Barge and also to Lord Sammael."

"Understood, please be careful and guard Lord Ainz with your life."

"No need to say what I would most certainly do," Azrael said as he terminated the spell. Opening his eyes again, he saw that Ainz had re-summoned his armor again and headed for the door.

Momon sheaths his two broad swords on his back and walked outside with the Angel falling behind him, "Your information is correct Azlan, the enemy retreated to the E-Rantel Cemetery. It seems that they are amassing a force that would destroy this city tonight, fortunately, we seemed to have thrown a wrench into their plans."

"They will surely be prepared my Lord, recommending combat readiness to maximum?"

"Hold off on that, we don't want other people to know of our current strengths right? But be prepared for that to change at a moment's notice."

Azlan smiled as he secured the gloves tightly on his hands, "As you command Lord Momon."

.

Meanwhile

.

"What the FLYING FUCK happened back there?"

Clementine clutched her side as she limped quickly back to the cemetery with Khajit trying his best to half-carry and half-drag her back. This was a major setback to the plans of the organization, he was not expecting that they would be contending with a magic caster with such a powerful counter to his own. He was not able to get a read on him, but when he shot her away with that magic of his that sent their resident assassin flying through wooden walls. He couldn't help and feel a slight shiver in his arms. It was a magic he had not seen before and it had affected her like this. Damn it all, now they're exposed and they had no other choice except to advance the time frame of the plan.

"What the fuck was that magic anyway!? Not even the Theocracy has that kind of magic, nor have I ever seen that magic be used!" if it was possible then Clementine looked more deranged compared to what she looked like before, "When I find him, I'll bleed him slow!"

"I know," Khajit held up a vial of potion that he showed to the injured woman, "Drink this, we're going too slow and they might be already at our heels, we must hurry. If we lose momentum then we could fail in our endeavor, as it is right now, there is enough time to still grasp firmly of victory."

Begrudgingly, the female assassin accepted the bottle and downed it in one gulp, instantly the pain vanished and her breathing returned to normal, indicating that her broken risb seemed to have mended itself. Khajit grunted as they reached the relative safety of the crypts, his acolytes gathered before him as he turned to Clementine, "We will soon be under attack, that magic caster will certainly come after us again, can you handle yourself now?"

The woman scoffed, but pulled herself together and nodded firmly as she walked away. The necromancer knew she would prepare, and he knew that she would not underestimate their enemy again. He took out his most prized possession and caressed it like a lover would one another. It glowed an eerie light as Khajit looked deranged under its influence.

"Yes- yes, we shall spread death- And soon your power will be enough to grant me immortality!"

He was still whispering sweet nothings to the Orb of Death when an acolyte was brought forward, the acolyte's arms were tied from his arms up to the elbows. He had a gag on his mouth as his eyes bled with blood while on his head rested the 'Crown of Wisdom' a powerful item that would allow the usage of more complex spells, but in exchange for the boost in power is a certain death sentence for the user. Additionally, those without talent would find themselves torn asunder literally, while those without magic talents would not even elicit a response from the item. However, since they failed to get their target he would have to go with plan B, summon all the undead he could muster, gather the negative energy on the Orb of Death until he himself can fulfill the spell he wished to cast.

"Master, the undead are now crawling out of the crypts and out of their graves," an acolyte shivered as they held down their former comrade, "What is our next course of action."

"Begin the operation, overwhelm the defenders of this city and we will bathe this city with death."

"As you command Master Khajit!" his acolytes carried off their comrade as they prepared to assault the southern gate which faced the most number of concentrated dwellings.

An armored woman approached him as he looked at her from head to toe, "You seemed more armored than usual?"

"Tch!" she adjusted the cuirass she was wearing and said, "Even if I go faster, he'll just catch me with that spell of his. Might as well wear this armor, this gives me protection against offensive spells and enhances some of my skills. It was not my previous wargear, but it will have to do."

"Then that is enough," Khajit pulled a hood over his robe and walked out of the tomb, the Jewel of Death held tight on his left hand, while his right carried his gnarled staff. As they came out they saw hundreds of undead were already clear of their graves, some armed while others used their bony hands. His acolytes were directing larger undead to the gate as the necromancer and Clementine marched outside.

"The night is still young," the old man grinned, "And it is a good night to die."

.

Meanwhile

.

"Ainz-sama?"

"Who is this Ainz-sama?" Ainz currently disguised as Momon said sarcastically at the Angel, "I have not met this Ainz before, could you introduce me?"

"A-apologies, I did not mean to forget Momon-sam_AN"

The Overlord sighed at that, "...sam_AN? That's worse than Nabe's 'Momon-saAan'."

"M-my apologies, Momon-san," the Angel looked distressed as he felt conflicted on what he was saying, "It is quite hard to act all disrepectful towards a Supreme Being, it truly grates against the grain my Lord."

"Fine, but try to remember to keep in character always."

"Of course, Momon-saAan."

The Dark Warrior sighed once more, can't he just be a normal person and do adventurer stuff or something. He shook his head at his misfortune and both stopped in their tracks as they rounded a street corner. They saw the large double gate of the cemetery fly off its hinges as a large humanoid thing threw rocks and debris everywhere as it thrashed the guards defending the cemetery from grave robbers. Frightened citizens ran in all directions as the undead that spilled out of the gates brought with them panic and terror, the remaining soldiers that tried to hold off the undead fought a losing battle as the press of cold undead bodies threatened to overwhelm their petty numbers.

A mass of corpses bound together writhed and groaned as it shambled and crawled outside into the streets. It body was covered by a dark miasma as a Necrosome Giant headed for the group of soldiers that was bravely holding the lines.

"Azlan, assist the soldiers, try to keep the undead at bay."

"Yes, My Lord."

The Angel walked towards the defending guards unimpeded by any enemy. The thick mass of bodies was nothing against him as he infused cleansing and divine magic in his hand and began swiping it left and right. These zombies and skeletons that were summoned by a mediocre spell was simply no match against him. Azlan made short work of the enemy grouping against the soldiers, he reached the Captain of the Guards and casts his spell [Imbrem Lux] once more. The soldiers were finally relieved and was glad that an adventurer appeared before them, their other comrades who were wounded cheered and hailed him as a hero as each and every undead within the vicinity of the spell turned to dust and was finally purified.

"Thank the Gods-" the Captain looked down at his plate and scratched his head, "A copper plate? A copper plate can sustain a [Banish] spell without pause? That's impossible!"

"Shall I take my leave and see if you can survive this impossible encirclement?" he began to turn and walk away as the soldiers looked at their leader accusingly.

"Forgive me sire of my earlier skepticism, perhaps this is due to me not having experienced such an event happening before," he removed his helm and Azlan saw the hard gaze of a man that lost all manner of hope in this situation.

The Angel nods his head in understanding, "I have called for reinforcements from the city garrison and at the Adventurer's Guild, though I fear that their delay and their willingness to fight against that 'thing' over there is quite wanting!"

He used his sword to point at the Necrosome Giant currently rampaging at the front gate, its rampage prevented the soldiers from mounting a steady defense. The undead bodies crashed on them like a wave, inundating them with a mass of rotting limbs from old corpses and an odious stench that strained a person's concentration.

"Fear not, my Lord Momon the Black would slay that beast."

The Captain of the Guards frowned at him as he pointed to a black armored warrior in the distance approaching the Necrosome Giant. The monstrosity took another step forwards the civilian houses and away from the south gate in its bid to sow terror and death. But the Captain saw the Dark Warrior pull out a broadsword that was strapped to his back. He heaved the large blade over his head and threw his weapon at his enemy. The weapon struck the monster on its forehead as the mass of bodies instantly disintegrated to the ground with the sound of a great groaning.

With the fall of the monstrosity, the soldiers immediately formed a defensive line at the ruined gate as Azlan and Momon walked side by side to confront the undead. The sounds of a hundred marching naked feet reached their ears as a large horde of undead zombies and skeletons could be seen marching towards them from the dense fog that rose up from the ground.

Momon turned to the Captain of the Guards and said, "Hold the line, not one undead must get past you. My other companion is gathering reinforcement now as we speak at the Adventurer's Guild. Both of us will be heading out to take out the source of this incident."

"B-but," the Captain was about to say they were just copper plates, but after seeing how the Monk was able to banish a whole horde of undead on his own and the black armored warrior taking down a Necrosome Giant with one hit, he knew that he could not hinder them if he wanted to, "Be careful Dark Warrior, we would hold the line until your return."

"I shall hold you to that," Momon unsheated his two great swords and bravely headed out into the foggy field, the white robed monk following closely behind. The thick fog soon swallowed them from view and they could soon hear the sounds of clashing blades and bodies being broken. The soldiers stood with apprehension as the sound of the marching undead somewhat waned as the horde seemed to focus on something else now. Suddenly, shadows materialized from the thick fog as ghastly faces stared back at them from lifeless and rotting eyes. The stragglers of the horde has breached the fog and was now upon them.

The Guard Captain grits his teeth and nods his head in readiness, "All right LADS! LOCK THOSE ENDS!" the soldiers under his command took a ready stance and formed a shield wall that is two line deep. Reserves stand ready at the back as the vanguards remained on the top of the wall to give them a much better tactical view of the area.

Undead former citizens of E-Rantel finally reach the weapon range of the soldiers as the battle at the E-Rantel cemetery gates begin in earnest.

.

Far from the view of the spotters at the gate, Azrael levitated slightly off the ground as 4 spheres of light circled around him. They were purifying spirits that exorcised and dealt holy damage against the undead. He followed the Overlord closely as the undead enemy generally ignored the Supreme Being considering he was a superior undead compared to them. Instead, they focused on Azrael only as he breathed and exuded the warmth of the living from his person. Swinging his sword in wide arches, Ainz noticed that he could take down perhaps 3 to 5 undead zombies and skeletons per swing, and though this is not taxing to him at all. The tediousness of swinging your arms is taking all the excitement of it that it has certainly become a chore.

The press of the numerous undead was beginning to thin his patience as he clicked his non-existent tongue and said, "This is going too slow, we would be forced to expose more of our power if this continues. Azrael, clean them up."

"Right away my Lord," gathering the four spheres of light, he puts his palms together as he sent a pulse of energy from his very being outward against their enemies, "The light of heaven beckons, [Light of Radiance]."

A golden magic circled formed in the sky above them as it suddenly drew power into itself, which it then released in a large undulating wave of purifying magic. Banishing and dispelling all manner of undead magic from their vicinity, Momon wiggled his gauntleted finger as he felt a tingling sensation on his non-existent finger. All undead within 100 meters was purified and those at the range of 300 meters was severely weakened by the wave of light, the somewhat thick fog was also blown away and the only sound was the steady sound of the undead groaning and marching towards the gates.

"Hmm, was that perhaps a 7th-tier spell Azlan?"

"Yes my Lord," the Angel bowed in acknowledgement, "I dare not use an 8th-tier magic as that could certainly affect you in even the tiniest of ways."

"Very considerate of you Azlan, let us hurry then."

The Overlord was amazed at the way the Angel General handled the situation, he had the tactical knowledge to work together in a group. Perhaps it was due to having Sammael as their creator that they became like that. Additionally, the [Light of Radiance] was a 7th-tier spell that usually does not work on him, but he somewhat felt a little tingle on his hand. Was it perhaps he was not completely protected with this armor covering him instead of his heavenly garments?

An experiment for another time then as he continued towards the crypts on the ends of the dirt road inside the cemetery grounds.

Arriving at the crypts, they arrived to see their targets waiting for them. A red robed old man and the female assassin looked at them confidently, they watched as they made their way towards them as both Azlan and Ainz stood side by side with the necromance Khajit and his acolytes behind him.

"You are foolish to have come here Monk-"

"-please call me Azlan," the Angel interjected distracting Khajit from his monologue, "It pays to be acquianted I always say."

"I can see why Clementine is angry at you."

"Oh, you ain't seen nothing yet," the Angel gave a fake laugh as he looked at Momon and saw him nod his head. He then turned to the female assassin and said, "Why don't you come with me woman, let Lord Momon wipe the floor with that old man."

Silently, the woman called Clementine followed the powerful monk, she did not remove the hood hiding her face yet her eyes burned with so much hatred at him. She caressed her weapons one by one, part fetish and part preparation. She had 2 short swords, 4 stilettos, 2 blindness powder, and her cape of silence. With her leather cuirass fortified with enhancement and defensive magic. Her hand dipped into the small utility pouch on her back which carried her potions, she thumbed each one as she carried at least 4 potions for HP and 2 potions for stamina. She has 2 smoke and 2 incendiary bombs as well, both for offensive and as an effective distraction. She would ensure that this monk was going down right now.

As the monk and the female assassin walked away, the dark warrior and his opponent sized each other up. The necromancer was confident, he had faced alot of warriors before and they all liked one thing to do. They always wanted to approach him, hence, he had built his magical repertoire on making the enemy distance itself from him. Effectively crippling their foremost advantage against him which is their powerful blows and martial prowess.

"Who are you dark warrior?"

"I am Momon the Black," Ainz felt a bit of ire and gratitude towards the old man. Ire because the old man thought that he could actually prevail against him and gratitude, because his defeat would be his stepping stone towards fame and reknown, "I shall be your death."

"Pray and do tell how you could even accomplish that while swinging those large tree trunks around you called swords?"

The disguised Overlord did not reply, instead he swung his sword down to the ground. The force of jos swing cracked and cleaved the ground as the wind pressure alone cut through stone and ground.

Khajit sneered trying not to look impressed, "So you have some skill with the blade, but you would be hard-pressed to fight my creation!"

Suddenly, he took out the pulsing violet jewel and raised it into the air. A disturbing aura seemed to envelope the orb he clutched in his left hand as he loudly declared, "Behold the power of the Jewel of Death!" tremors shook the ground as large cracks broke apart earth and stone from below their feet. The disciples of Zuranon retreated backwards and kept their 'sacrificed' comrade safe as a large object hauled itself above ground. Its snout was the first to come up to the surface as 4 undead eyes stared back at Momon as the creature pulled itself up freely from that ground where it was buried. Awed and surprised, the Overlord could not speak for a moment as he absorbed the undead being that is standing in front of him.

It was a Skeletal Dragon.

A terrifying foe indeed, as no conventional magic could ever hope to harm it. The dragon's passive abilites were numerous, but its most fearsome is that it was immune to 6th-Tier magic. It was almost 3 meters from its shoulder yet it was not a true dragon in essence, as a matter of fact, it merely mimicks a real dragon as the numerous bones and decaying flesh that it is made up of are just the remains of those that have been died and buried here in this cemetery that was bonded together with magic. Its body was strong and could take a lot of punishment considering it does not feel any pain or emotion at all, while its eyes carried the light of the undead with its red colored glowing eyes. Its teeth were lined with sharp jagged teeth and its enormous bat-like wings sprouted from its back as it stood on four bony limbs with its prehensile tale spiked and able to sweep through armies that would try to face it.

It was massive and powerful, its bony appearance is but a lie against its enemies. It is a complete bane against all magic casters of the New World as it clearly nullifies magic up to the 6th-Tier and if one would fight it, any deaths it reaps would certainly only add to its replenishment.

Though against an Overlord of Death, it is but mere child's play.

"You may struggle to the best of your abilities."

The dark warrior Momon gave a deep laugh as a dark aura suddenly exploded from under him. The intense shift in mana density was palpable as he took a breathe and felt the air was charged with power. Unfortunately for the necromancer, if he could only use divine magic, then he would see that Momonga had already released his [Aura of Despair I] and effectively halted the breathing of the Zuranon member's acolytes with its release. They stood there on the back frozen in fear and despair as the Jewel of Death he clutched jealously effectively absorbed most of the force that was destined to also stop his breathing.

Khajit took pause and looked behind him towards his acolytes and was suprised to find them all had lost consciousness.

"What did you do?" he turned back angrily to Momon, "Did you curse them?"

"Hmm, you are still moving I see, were you not affected by my aura?"

Angry at being ignored, the old necromancer ordered the Skeletal Dragon forward and to engage and destroy the adventurer beneath its mighty sound of the dragon striking ground over and over again felt music to his ears as he eagerly anticipated the screams of pain from the warrior. However, it did not come, not even the sound of a strained cry or the breaking of bones, or any sound for that matter. He could only hear the dragon thrashing about in fury as it tried to destroy its enemy repeatedly, a great cloud of dust and debris was kicked up by the destruction it was doling out.

'Something's not right,' that thought gnawed in the necromancer's head as he tried to order the Skeletal Dragon to retreat.

As soon as the Dragon stopped moving to retreat towards him, a large double-bladed sword was hurled from the dust cloud. It traveled straight and true and smacked the forehead of the Skeletal Dragon squarely. It reeled back and roared loudly as if in pain, this action gave Khajit pause, why would an undead dragon feel pain at all? Did that warrior actually managed to evade that thrashing attack and then flung its sword towards his creature that sent it down to the ground.

The dust finally settled and he could see the dark warrior standing where he used to be, not even moving a single step back against the dragon. Was he somehow able to deflect the blow or did he evade them?"

Irritably he raised the [Jewel of Death] once more and casts, "[Ray of Negative Energy], [Lesser Strength], [Undead Flame], [Protection Energy]"

Standing up shakily, the sword that impaled its forehead fell to the ground with a thud. As the Skeletal Dragon regenerated an soft wind fluttered past and sways Momon's cape who raised his remaining sword to the dark sky.

"AZRAEL, our time is short! Show her the might of Nazarick!"

Letting go of his other sword, Khajit was mystified about his actions until the he said the next set of words.

"[Aura of Despair II]"

A dark wave of power radiated from the full plated warrior as a truly terrifying aura was now visibly emanating from him. The acolytes who only paused a while ago has now fainted, those of lesser fortitude all suffered cardiac arrests while those that possess a stronger will cried and convulsed uncontrollably. The power flooding their senses suffocating and choking the light out of them, some clutched their heads in pain while some writhed in pain and their faces ashen and greatly frothing in the mouth. Khajit almost lost his footing as well, yet the [Jewel of Death] absorbed most of the effects of the aura from harming him. But he did not go unscathed, beads of sweat peppered his forehead and the opressive pain he felt was not lessened by the absorption of his prized jewel.

The aura was painful for a human, oppressive and very hostile to life. Even the Skeletal Dragon stood unmoving as it looked empowered by the powerful presence in their vicinity. It was an aura of death so powerful it almost dimmed the miasma that was spawned by his own orb of the undead. Not even the leader of Zuranon evoked such a solid display of power over the dead.

"W-who are you?"

One step towards him and the necromancer was forced on his knees. As he went down he realized that he was actually holding his breathe and a cold sweat peppered his bald head. A deep seated fear bloomed from his heard as a mighty creature approached him that no one he had met before could overwhelm him with such a caliber of might. Hearing the heavy footfalls getting nearer and nearer, his mind was beginning to shut down from the stress of having to face such a creature, although shielded and was above normal humans, he was just still a human. Channeling his fears into the jewel he clutched now so desperately, he empowered his previous dragon and enforced his will more robustly than before. Grasping all the fear and darkness he could get from the area, he summoned another dragon from the ground. Desperately, he crawled back to get away as the two dragons he summoned tried with all their might to lay low the black armored warrior who was still walking towards him unimpeded. Stomps from the bony feet and swipes from their great tails failed to slow or even delay the unstoppable warrior.

He risked a glance back and saw one tail swipe mysteriously bounced off without even hitting the warrior, this shocked him even more, 'Is he immune from physical damage?'

The necromancer could not believe what his eyes was witnessing right now. His two Skeletal Dragons were nothing against Momon the Black, every strike they made even failed to make contact against him. As the warrior continued his approach and the overwhelming fear blanketing him from head to toe, Khajit clutched his gnarled staff and desperately cried out.

"[Acid Javelin]"

Green blobs of strong acid formed in front of the old man, which suddenly hurled itself towards Momon in a blink of an eye. The terror he felt as he saw his offensive spell seemed to not even hit his enemy was enough to send a cold chill on the pits of his stomach.

"I cannot be stopped," that deep infernal voice inside that plate helm shook his body once more as he heard it. A giant bony tail smacked him head-one, but it suddenly shattered as it struck the invisible barrier that seemed to possess nullification to physical damage of any kind.

A mere 50 feet as Khajit called out in desperation, "[Shield Wall]"

Bright light shimmered in front of Momon that solidified and formed like a barrier against his approach. But as he took another step, the spell shattered without even him touching it at all as he still walked calmly towards him.

"Fuhaha... you do not have a prayer," Momon soon stood in front him as he towered against his prone form. He was under him now and he finally saw the lights under his armor.

'They are red-' Khajit Dale Bandantel's life flashed before his eyes as he saw the warrior grabbed the [Jewel of Death] and easily pried it off of his hands.

Immediately as he took the jewel in his hand, a wave of power shot out from under his feet that struck the two Skeletal Dragons. Their bodies disintegrated and crumpled under the strain of holding so much carcass together that it collapsed under its own weight. The jewel immediately turned a shiny black color, like the abyss was absorbed into its very being. He had never seen any kind of jewel that smooth and shiny that it looked flawless to the eyes. Feeding it such negative energy could have only made it possible as the necromancer asked for the last time.

"Who- what are you?" Momon did not move as all semblance of control slipped away from Khajit, "Show your face!"

Momon dispelled his summoned plate armor and the necromancer can only stare in shock, fear and wonder.

Resplendent in his magical panoply of obsidian robes, he gripped Khajit's neck in a firm hold and stared down at him with his crimson orbs not bothering to even grace him an answer, "Taste your mortality."

There was no scream of pain from the human, no drawn-out cry of mercy, but only a whisper of a word so distant Ainz or the human in him could not even remember when he last said nor thought of its meaning.

'-mama.'

.

Meanwhile

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After they walked away from Ainz and Khajit, both Azlan and Clementine settled on a nearby group of mausoleums and crypts that was previously vacated by their dead each other and with the tension heavy in the air, the assassin drew her sword and clutched a stilleto on her right hand. Azlan raised his palm in a defensive stance while the woman circled like a predator on her prey, trying to check if there was an instance that he would be vulnerable. Murmuring [Martial Arts] softly to ensure that he would not be prepared to counter-attack her, she crouched low and waited for his enemy to move first.

"I hope your not open this time."

His baiting did not get a rise from her, instead she focused even more on her enemy and his movements as well. She was a former member of the Scripture, her personality twisted beyond belief, both the extremities of deranged and focused. She can be unhinged to the point of insanity, but in this instance her focus knows no bound. A target, she only needs a target, Clementine scanned his body and tried to find a chink in his armor, any weakness in him that she can exploit. A committed thrust on the left shoulder and a shadow blow to the neck or the extremity, just one blood, one damage would be enough to prove she could bring him down.

Her muscles grew taught and her breathing became shallow, everything seemed to move in slow-motion as she launched herself blindingly fast like an arrow, her left hand clutching the short sword in front of her as protection. A few nanoseconds later and she launched her right hand with the stiletto, aiming for his left shoulder. But Azlan simply turned his body to the left and crouched as she sailed past him, her eyes widened as he also launched himself backwards grabbing her in mid-air and then twisting her in a somersault that launched her further than she intended herself to be.

Clementine purposely rolled on the ground trying to dissipate the force of his throw, she quickly recovered and saw that Azlan was heading towards after her. She narrowly dodged a running kick from her and she spun in mid-air letting loose the short sword in a blind swing. Her weapon miraculously clipped his heavy gauntlets that sent sparks flying everywhere. She somersaulted backwards trying to create space against the two of them and to ensure ample breathing space so she won't get surprised again. Though therein lies the problem, their recent contact made her pause as she felt something weird as she hit him.

She could remember that when she clipped his gauntlet, all it felt was like an object of such great mass was hit. The momentum of her martial art carried her through and dampened the blow somewhat, but something truly felt off at their contact. It was like stabbing a large boulder with a sword, your strength and technique may carry you through brute force, but the weight of his blow was as heavy as boulders. It was like trying to hit an uncontrolled carriage loaded to the brim with goods.

It was preposterously impossible.

Clementine charged again as she ran full-pelt towards him when a loud call cuts through their silence. It was unmistakeably the voice of his companion, Momon the Black. The voice that she heard seemed amplified by magical means, but what she heard after was the one that puts the twinge of fear on her chest.

"AZRAEL, our time is short! Show her the might of Nazarick!"

The rush of wind was her only warning as she then focused on where the monk stood unmoving. A faint glow seemed to envelope him as he slowly lifted himself off the ground and levitated a few inches above it. Her eyes widened as she beheld a golden halo materialized on the top his head. It was impossible and technically unheard of, but coming from the Theocracy she had seen her share of Angels before, and having a halo of their own is a definite trait of an Angel. Yet this was a human being in front of her, a breathing, living human that was not in anyway similar to the Great Angels summoned by the high-ranking members of the Theocracy. Not even Captain Nigun of the Sunlight Scripture could summon a sentient Angel. Sure, perhaps he could summon a mid-tier angel, or an upper class angel, but not sentient ones. Quite frankly, she had not heard of anyone summoning angels with sentience, fearing it would be truly blasphemous and against the teaching of the 6 Great Gods if that would be so.

"Rejoice human, for this is the glorious true form of the 8th Angel General," each and every Generals were adorned with masks or helms that will depend on their tactical role for a raid. "I suggest you do not blink."

"What are you yapping on anyw-" she blinked and he suddenly became a blur in front of her eyesight.

A primal fear shot through her body suffused by her training as she raised the short sword instinctively in defense while readying the stiletto on her right hand for offense. In that split second she felt her body endure an extraordinary impact that shook her body to the core and launched her backwards with brutal force. She was literally lifted from her feet by the blow as he materialized in front of her, his fist looked gigantic from her eyes and the pressure she felt from the blow threw her body into the air.

He basically vanished from her sight and judging from his last position, he must have moved more than 30 feet away without any hint of tension in his body, then struck her with his fist and sending her body flying away in a split second.

She tumbled in mid-air and finally landed with a thud on the somewhat soft ground, forcing herself to roll several times not just to gain distance from her enemy, but to also bleed off the energy of his blow that she received by deliberately rolling. Clementine knew that to weather and stiffen yourself against the blow would certainly spell death for her and her body and bones would have been eviscerated. Instead, she took large gulps of air and tried to recover the pain she felt. She felt her back touch the walls of a nearby maousoleum as the distance she traveled was quite great.

Be it the graciousness of the Gods, or just her pure damn luck, but her left arm had was not broken even though the blow she received should have shattered her shoulders and upper arm.

Clementine focused on her enemy just in time as she saw him vanish once more in a blink of an eye, she immediately ducked as he was upon her again. Azlan's leg whizzed past where her head had been a few nanoseconds ago and his kick harmlessly passed over her as she evaded it in the nick of time. But the wall where she propped her head awhile ago was simply pulverized with the hit. She rolled away as the swinging leg whistled past her.

Extending her right hand, Azlan's leg met the pointed end of the stiletto, the former Black Scripture pouring all the martial arts she knew that could enhance her physical abilities even more. As the point struck the Angel's leg another much massive impact traveled from the weapon into Clementine's right arm, aside from being hit a while ago and her body being shook up, the blow made her feel like her whole right arm had been torn off. Something snapped on her shoulders and the blow actually made her spun while kneeling as she tumbled to the ground again, pin lights forming on her eyes as the concussion of the hit overwhelmed her senses.

"Graah!" she finally squealed in pain as she grabbed her right shoulder that was sticking out into fractured pieces.

Looking down at her exposed wound she bit her lip both in annoyance and pain, her clavicle or collar bone was sticking out and her right humerus was dislocated, her arm was broken in half with the bone sticking out of it. When her attack hit the leg of her opponent it did not go through as she had anticipated, instead the weapon absorbed the stress of the blow with her right arm that clutched the weapon. And of course, according to physics, any kinetic action has an equal reaction.

She closed her eyes as she breathed through her teeth, the pain was almost blinding, as she saw Azlan standing above her victoriously.

"Go," the former Black Scripture assassin breathed, "-finish it."

His fist came down on her face and then it was darkness.

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Nabe looked diligently at the thinning fog waiting for her Lord to come back. She stood guard together with the members of Sword of Darkness and a few other copper, silver, even gold plated adventurers as they gathered up and maintain a static defense on the ruined south gate. Two Orichalcum ranked adventurer teams were being assembled at the moment as a few undead stragglers made their way to the cordoned area. Hamsuke rests behind the raven haired girl as she stood as the fluffy sentinel that guarded a companion of his master.

The gathered throng of soldiers and adventurers stared in awe at the sight of this magical beast as it spoke with such wisdom and superb diction and command of their language.

"This 'one' is truly grateful to be of such use to my Master, I, Hamsuke would truly endeavor to provide the best of service for my gallant Lord."

The disguised doppelganger sighed exasparatedly, "You would be of great service if you would just shut up."

"Truly now, thy am declaring thine utmost loyalty and service to milord, truly I am!"

"Something wrong Nabe-chan?"

If she could look angrier then Narberal or Nabe showed it on her face, more veins popped on her forehead as she noticeably grinds her teeth and her eyes turned to slits at the annoying insect currently buzzing around her. Lukrut smiled his roguish grin and showcased his perfect teeth, "Well, you look perfectly miffed at my presence Nabe-chan. I am truly thankful that you notice me, even though you hate me."

Nabe's eyes widened at the audacity and the implied meaning as she grabbed her sword and tried mightily not to draw her sword. Lukrut could not even imagine how fortunate or lucky he was when a shout erupted from their lookout at the top of the wall.

"SHADOWS! SHADOWS ON THE FOG!"

All eyes turned as shadows began to look visible through the fog, everyone readied their weapon except Nabe who instantly recognized the approaching person just from the sound of their footsteps.

A full plated warrior in black armor stepped out dragging a long rope through the fog, followed closely behind by a white robed man. They were trailing numerous ropes as the gathered adventurers and the gate's guards relaxed as they saw the hero of the day. The Captain of the Guard that Ainz had saved approached them as they saw that the ropes they carried dragged numerous bodies. They were all robed similarly as the hero dragged them carelessly through the ground, but they are alive and breathing confirmed members of the extremist group Zuranon.

Handing the rope to the guards, the soldier can only shake his head in disbelief, "I can't believe how you did it? But you must come with us- we must file a report to the Mayor and to the head of the Adventurer's Guild."

"Understood, please lead the way."

"On a side note, how did you manage to defeat such numerous undead and subdue members of Zuranon?"

Momon the Black banged his plate armor as they began to walk away, "Through the grace and skill of me and my comrade."

The Captain was all smiles, the euphoria of the battle was surging as the gathered throng of soldiers and warriors chanted Momon's name. Peter, and the rest of the Sword of Darkness began shouting in earnest even the wounded soldiers and the few brave civilians who dared to go outside on a dangerous time to catch a glimpse of this jet black warrior came out in droves. Followed by a beautiful woman that seemed to rival even Princess Renner herself in her own fair self, and a white robed warrior scribe while being borne aloft on the back of a majestic beast. It was truly an awe inspiring sight, Hamsuke strutted the whole way as everybody urged Momon to take the reins and ride on his noble steed.

'Oh my god, not again- is this the reward for saving a city? Continued shame play!?,' Ainz tried very hard not to sigh at his current situation as he rode a gigantic fluffy hamster while everyone else cheered him on.

'I WANT TO GO HOOOMMMEEE!'

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To be continued...

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A middle aged man with cropped blond hair and an 8-pointed star scar on his left face entered the front door of his mansion as he finally arrived on his home after days being grilled by the different Cardinals, all the great leaders that represented the 6 Great Gods that ruled humanity centuries before. They were wizened old men, advanced in years and in mind, yet they were all powerful humans that once served in the Judicial, Administrative and at one point had been part of the Theocracy Scriptures themselves.

No one can doubt that each and every one of them championed the welfare and well-being of humanity.

However, their relentless questioning showed him how these frail old men twisted the teachings of the 6 Gods. More and more he could not dismiss that these Cardinals truly revered the 6 Gods, but have twisted it so that the human race will rise above those that is stronger than them.

Still he endured their tireless questions, what's more all the spells of divination casted on him to ward off spells or force him to tell the truth were thwarted. It should not have been possible, but then again the words of Lord Sammael came unbidden in his mind.

'None shall strike you down while you carry my immortal favor.'

Gently, he caressed the 8 pointed star on the right side of his face. The blessing of his God, could it be? His senses were heightened like a beastman, while the 3rd tier divination magic casted on him were all nullified without the knowledge of the caster. Nigun headed for the darkened living room and poured himself a goblet of wine. As soon as the drink touched his lips, the taste disgusted his lips. What is this? This is nothing compared to the drink of the Gods! He threw the cups on the side spilling wine all around, he stood up and faced the direction of Carne Village, the general direction where he encountered his God.

'...I should pray.'

Kneeling down, he closed his eyes and removed his upper tunic and began his prayer in earnest.

"Oh mighty and exalted One, hear the plea of your loyal servant. I pledge my loyalty everyday forward, by your Will I shall spread your word. By your will I shall spread your love and your worship to the masses. Let none hold back the tides of your coming."

"Lord Ainz and Lord Sammael, may your names be carved on the chest of your enemies, may enemies know fear of your mighty powers, may they tremble at your every approach, and may their rivers run red with their blood as sacrifice for your glorious coming. I, Nigun Grid Luin, pledge my blood and my life to this cause, for I shall embrace death without regret, as I have embraced this life you have given me without fear."

"Let this world burn under your name Warmaster!"

And Nigun deftly took a long sharp knife and ran it across his left arm, he produced a small cup and made an 8 pointed star on the wooden floor using his blood to write on it. He closed his eyes and felt power suffuse his body, when he opened them again he saw another mark of Sammael on his chest like a tattoo. He suddenly felt dizzy as he slumped on the ground, but something was not right. Nigun shook his head and propped his body with his left arm. As he exerted force on his left hand the wooden floor cracked with ease and he was taken aback with his strength. He lifts up his hand and saw black markings that extended from his chest up to his left hand. As soon as he relaxed and calmed his mind though the marks quickly receded and vanished from this left arm.

Still a bit confused, his heightened senses felt something move behind him.

"Who are you?" he could not see them, but he could it, "Show yourselves!"

"Fufufu... it seems the blessings of the Supreme Being is not wasted in you."

A man in an orange suit and tie stepped out of the shadows, his black leather shoes and business-like demeanor registered in his mind. The man had round rimmed glasses and his raven hair was swept back slick by some substance as hair do not usually become like that. It had a pleased smile as it approached him while a prehensile silvery tail moved lazily on its back, his long ears had silver earrings on them as he hummed excitedly at his approach.

"I can't help but admire your prayer, as expected of a servant of Lord Sammael, " the obvious monster inclined its head, "I am Demiurge, Guardian of the 7th Floor of the Great Tomb of Nazarick."

Nigun's eyes widened, he knelt immediately and bowed his head.

"What does my Lords require of this humble servant?"

"They wish you to succeed, hence, my appearance before you," Demiurge walked around and scrutinized the living room, "Though I understand you wish that the Supreme Beings to rule over this place, they cautioned you well about possible interference by other servants of the False Gods."

"I understand, on that end I have already begun to sow the seeds of doubt. Give me time, I shall rally the masses in their glorious names. The Noble Faction will be turned and remained as stalwart as a zealot would be while gripped in their religious fervor for him, they can be seduced by power, enough personal power and they would kneel before our Lords without question."

Demiurge smiled, "I believe that they will, as such, I shall leave someone to ensure that you will have the support of the Great Tomb in all your hardships. Keep in mind, do not call upon the Gods for help lightly, but your prayers of supplication truly intrigues me."

Nigun bowed respectfully, "I understand, I can work on my own if needed. If I should need resources or additional help, then I would inform this person. Curiously, in regards to my behavior let me impart my thoughts, humans or humanity pray to the Gods to empower them and give them safety, although superficial in most eyes, it certainly helps uplift someone in a strange way, perhaps their soul and it allows them to focus."

"Curious insight and a spark of intelligence, I'm beginning to see what the Warmaster sees in you," Demiurge turned to the shadows and beckoned, "Come and introduce yourself, step out of the shadows so you can meet Lord Sammael's Heretic."

A small girl wearing traditional Japanese clothes stepped out from the darkness, her large cute red eyes, and brown hair tied up in a twin chignon. However, Nigun knew better than to judge the girl as a mere human like him.

"Good evening, my name is Entoma Vasilissa Zeta, a member of the Pleiades Battle Maid of the Tomb of Nazarick. Pleased to meet you heretic."

Her voice is like a cute girl, though something was off. The human noticed that she hasn't blinked even once or moved her lips to even speak to him. One thing is for sure, she is not human and it would be best to tread lightly.

"Greetings, my name is Nigun Grid Luin, servant of Lord Sammael."

"Excellent, a human with excellent manners," Demiurge's smile could only be considered nefarious, but they didn't seem to notice as he gave a small laugh of contentment, "Then I shall leave you two now and be acquainted with each other. Entoma, you are to maintain cover with him as instructed by the Supreme Beings. Is that clear?"

"Understood Demiurge-sama," the maid bowed and assured him, her voice sounding suspiciously pouty at the statement.

The demon gave a small smile and walked back to the shadows, as soon as they were left alone Nigun reeled back in surprise as Entoma now stood right in front of him, mind you he was standing a distance away from her. He also found that her grip on his hand was hard that he felt pain, but as soon as he concentrated on the pain the markings on his chest spreads out to the immobilized hand and the pain vanished. He also felt that he could break the grip with his newfound strength, but instead he asked inquisitively, "What are you doing?"

She said nothing except take his other hand, the one that was cut before, which already healed into her other delicate looking hand. Bringing the healed wound on her lips, she licked the quickly drying blood clean off Nigun's skin. Taking careful note that her tongue was quite rough, she was looking down and he could not see her face as she licked his left arm clean. She lets go as she finished cleaning the blood on his arm, letting it dangle back on the side of his body.

"Muscular and tangy-"

"What?"

Entom adorably sniggered, "It's nothing... I shouldn't waste food," and promptly walked away heading for the darkened corridors leaving Nigun shivering not from the cold, but something else entirely.

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Author's Note:

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[Imbrem Lux] = Shower of Light

[Vi Dis] [Vi Dis Secundus] = Force Push / Force Push type 2

If Ainz DOES NOT become an Adventurer, then he would not have gotten HAMSUKE. The Guardians would dismiss her as someone or something beneath the notice of the Supreme Beings. That's for sure.

I see my story keeps getting longer and longer every chapter, this only proves that I'm not probably at a 1/4 of the way there. For most reviewers, I have so many influences for this fanfiction, mostly Warhammer 40K(Dawn of War II, Battlefleet Gothic), Darksiders, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Rick Astley and many more.

I want to thank you guys for reaching 50 reviews, hopefully, you my dear readers will continue to give me insights and review on what made you happy reading this fic. What you think must be improved, suggestions are always welcome and I shall actually consider your idea to be included. (With credits to the person of course!)

New Author's Note (June 2020):

I cannot believe I was able to put more details into the ball/party. It somehow made the other NPC's more human in some aspects don't you think? Also, didn't made much changes to the Omake scenes.

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Cheers,

Scarabeye3000