Heaven or Hell

by Scarabeye3000

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

7. Tactika Politika (rewritten)

Disclaimer: Still not mine, nor yours.

Title: Heaven or Hell

Chapter 7 - Tactica Heretika

.

.

Baharuth Empire Capital of Arwintar

.

White washed walls and red roof tiles on houses give the residential district of Arwintar its classic Mediterranean seaside cities type of similarity as it shone as the most advanced human city, second only to the Slane Theocracy and the Roble Holy Kingdoms. Each and every Emperor that sat on the throne pushed for the beautification of the capital ever since its citizens enjoyed peace, freedom and prosperity throughout their lands. Though not just in the capital, but in every town and every fortress city, the Empire boasted one of the most robust and stable economy in the continent. The Re-Estize Kingdom could not even compare against the vast manufacturing scale and its agricultural might. Trade and commerce flourished through the Empire as the food supply remained constant and the amount is truly bountiful per season. It was quite common for families to have more than two children even to the so-called peasantry, for they enjoy a subsidy on their cost of living allowance due to the wealth enjoyed by the Empire.

In the time of the Emperors of Old life was not the same, the separation from the unified Kingdom of Re-Estize and Baharuth brought about an upheaval in power and unleashed a never ending war that had not seen any ceasefire for centuries.

The Empire's government was run similarly before like the Kingdom, power is shared between the Royal Family, the Nobility, and the Church. The Royal Family commands the most prestige and honor, the Nobility acted as powerful oligarchs that sometimes strangle the strength of the Royal Family, while the Church serves its purpose as an extension of the Slane Theocracy. It was a stalemate and a delicate dance that mirrored the one being made by the Kingdom was also done within the Empire. The nobles practically ran the entire country, controlling everything from the economy, trade, and of course the peasant levy for the militia which was the forerunner of the Legions. This kind of archaic management wasted so much potential as people without clout or familial ties are overtaken by the much richer and connected members of the nobility.

As such, when the young Crown Prince Jircniv began his lessons on the matters of government with Fluder. He had predicted that such a struggle between factions of the Royal Family, the nobility and the church in regards to government would only hamper the development of their Empire.

And so, at such a young age, the young man integrated himself into the military.

Yes, nobles did run the military, but those that have made a career of this are quite few. And these few men are the most respected and powerful within the ranks, their nobility is only second to their skill and valor in battle. Crown Prince Jircniv pushed then the increase in spenditures regarding the military wages, he also pushed for additional hazard pay if a soldier will be deployed in the front lines, veteran benefits including compensations for loss of limb. A few other reforms pushed the popularity of the young Crown Prince until such time that he had secured the loyalty of the professional soldiers.

Additionally, he had advertised himself a supporter of the common folk, a friend of the masses and a stalwart supporter of the soldiery and a patron of the Order of Imperial Knight.

Finally, when the time came for him to seize power, he had all the most powerful nobles under his father's thumb invited to the Capital City of Arwintar. There he had them ambushed as they made their way towards the capital, those that did not go to the summons was killed on their beds with their wife as battalions of Imperial Knights loyal to the Crown Prince rode through the outskirts of the Empire and had slain each and every noble that have a large claim to the Throne, or any semblance of control to the economy, including holding the Archbishop of the 4 Gods under house arrest. His own father knew of his son's treachery too late as his own Praetorian guards plucked him from his chambers as he slept that night and marched him roughly towards the Throne Room. There he saw his son sitting on the Imperial Throne with a neutral expression on his face, the guards made him stand in front of the Throne as he watched Jircniv stand up from the Throne and walked towards him.

Fear and pride was reflected on the old Emperor as he realized what his son was going to do. The old dagger he clutched belonged to his first wife and he looked in horror at the bloody pile beside the Throne. Looking back at him were the lifeless eyes of the head of each and every noble within his faction, as this explain why the sudden silence and mysterious disappearance of his peers these past week. The Imperial Secretary was faced down on the side of the Throne, a sword was on his neck and a boot from a Knight was pressing on his back.

The Crown Prince stood at eye level to the Emperor and said, "Jircniv, what are you doing- my son?"

"Succeeding you-," his son gave a blank stare at him as he felt his breathe leave his lungs. The long thin dagger was sticking out of his chest as blood gurgled out of the old Emperor's mouth, "-father."

Within weeks, numerous reforms and changes were implemented within the Empire as the death of the numerous nobles due to the 'Night of Long Knives' left a power vacuum so large that it took almost half a year for the new Emperor to fill in the numerous posts from those that are truly worthy of it. Sweeping all nobles that resisted him legally with his right as the Emperor, or by the sword, he had used the Imperial Knights as an effective force to make a military junta answerable to him. He had the army march to every region and province and demand everything from the nobles, those that acquiesced were spared and left with some, while those that actively resisted were left with none.

Because of the oppressive grasp of the nobles relaxing and the more talented and skilled are finally given an equal chance in life compared to those born of nobility. Innovation and ideas flourished, diversity ensured that the mindset of a certain organization is not bogged down by who was born into what family, but what can an individual contribute as a whole. Position is no longer measured by how deep one's pocket is, but by the skill and the passion that a person throws into his work.

This prosperity is reflected in the way the citizens have reaped the benefits of this uplifted way of life.

As such, products from all the territories and borders of the Baharuth Empire has flooded the Capital and showcased the fluid economy set forth by the Bloody Emperor Jircniv and his royal advisors. They advised him on the numerous topics that would allow his rule to flourish, unlike the previous Emperor who relied on advisers merely as a show of prestige and those advisers who only gave lip service. The young Emperor demanded true service with his servants, each and every advisor was taken during the early years of his reign, they were given a chance to think up of a program no matter how audacious it is, that would surely benefit the Empire.

Those that succeeded kept their place, their wealth and their honor. While those that failed were given 1 carriage to carry their valuables and then sent to the farthest provinces to 'redeem' themselves and uplift the farthest corners of the Empire. Some succeeded and was welcomed back to the capital, others ultimately failed, while some fled to the neighboring Kingdoms. The Bloody Emperor pursued them and demanded the neighboring Kingdoms to relinquish the wayward nobles, which the Kingdoms and territory are too happy to do considering they would not risk open war with their neighbor for a bunch of nobles who only have the robes on their backs as their property. Those that fled and recaptured were branded as traitors to the Empire and was summarily executed, none who fled managed to survive.

With the Emperor cleaning house, trade boomed and revenue shot up to unprecedented numbers. Corruption is almost stamped out and nobles lining their pockets were investigated thoroughly and 'vanished' without a trace. It is this ruthlessness that the Empire drove itself forward to such heights that it is steadily becoming the most powerful nation in terms of economy and infrastructure. Second only to the Slane Theocracy in military might and magic tools and innovation, the numerous developments in both civil and military applications ensured that the Baharuth Empire could, in theory, overwhelm the Re-Estize Kingdom in both economy and military might.

As such, the main market area of the capital of Arwintar showcased the newest addition to one of its well-known landmarks. On the corner of the western side, where the main fountain faced the royal palace stood a two-story building that was vacated by a wealthy fabric trader after their family was purged by the Emperor. It stood abandoned for years since the large floor space is too much for any merchant to use, but it was perfect for the Warmaster's purpose. It was a large L-shaped building, the first floor was a long hall that carried numerous products for the perusal of the buyers. On one end was the stairs that went upwards to the 2nd floor, it also gave access to an underground cellar and the rooftop had an open air garden where one can take afternoon tea. All the wares of the trading house are displayed behind glass closets that are manned by numerous brown robed and masked servitors. Red-robed magos pored over books and papers as they handled the accounting and acted as supervisors while Baramus and Zadicus acted as managers and worked in alternating shifts.

Guards hooded and covered in red robes stood outside of the doors and on the stairways as people passed by with curious stares and wonders in their minds. The people were surprised that this high-end store welcomed both the nobility and the peasantry, you can buy a lacquered wooden dinner set for a commoner's price and you can buy a golden or silver dinner set in the same price as a silversmith of any name priced it. The people were surprised that the same courtesy was afforded to the customers be it rich or poor. It is these settings that a new customer, their most esteemed yet decided to walk in and browse their shop.

After the ball that the Warmaster launched for his introduction to the nobility and society in general, Baraqiel was not surprised to see the Tri-Arts Magic Caster walking among the display perusing each and every item that they have in stock. Considering that the man probed them for any semblance of power, it would be no surprise that he would come here and check for himself. He breathed deeply to steady himself and approached the old man confidently, there were few shoppers today and Fluder was concentrated on their 'paper' products at the moment.

"Greetings Master Paradyne, such an honor to welcome you once more."

The old man turned to him and smiled widely, "Ah! You are the servant of Master Samuel correct?"

"Indeed Great Master, I am also the manager for this time of the day, would you like some assistance on your shopping?"

"Of course, I was just wondering about your products," he took out a piece of paper and looked at him, "This is paper yes?"

"Yes my Lord, we do have options to provide you with specific measurements though it may take at least a day for our Manufactoras to complete your order."

"How about papyrus or parchment perhaps?"

Baraqiel smiled, "We can make parchments my Lord of any specific species that you have in mind. Do take note that the rarity, quality and process to produce the parchment will of course dictate its price."

"Understandable, but this paper-" he waved the single piece of white paper in front of him, "How is this made? And it is so white too."

"It is made from wood Master Paradyne, it is a technique that our Master has acquired through his travels."

The old man rubbed his long beard and said, "I would like to know more about this, incidentally I require more than just paper. I need magical robes and a staff if you may also throw that in."

"Of course, we can provide that as well."

How much power can a merchant have if you can boast to have magical gear just lying around?

Fluder's curiosity nagged him endlessly now, he had let the events of the previous night be held off for another time. But the matter of the three servants and their master not having any aura he could detect kept him wondering in his mind. He knew he was inquisitive and it is a small matter to truly feel out the answer to his questions, but therein lies the question.

Why would they hid their auras from him?

He was confident he could handle anything they throw at him for he knew his power was great for a human. Possibly matching the only surviving member of the 13 Heroes, which is Rigrit Bers Carau who also lengthens her life by magic. As such he took off from the Magic Academy today, landed a few blocks away from the Trading house and waltzed right in. He wanted to refresh his mind considering they failed once more for the umpteenth time to subjugate the 'secret project' beneath the hallowed grounds of the Magic Ministry.

So, he decided to pursue other interest to get his mind off of things. A trait he had developed during his long years of trying to innovate in the field of magic. The stress and frustration of his failed attempts to subjugate a Death Knight weighed heavily upon him. To release the tight fisted feeling he had in his head, he thought of the pointless things he wished to pursue and remembering his divination that he did to the new merchant of the Empire brought forth feelings and thoughts of instability. The thought of someone shielding themselves from him made his mind churn.

Why would they shield themselves from me?

Are they perhaps doing something illegal or against the Empire?

Perhaps he could learn more.

"Right this way Master Paradyne," he was led off to a more secured section of the shop and he saw the high quality weapons that they were currently selling. It is impressive in a sense considering they have the skills to make robes, armors, a menagerie of weapons, even staff and wands. But he had seen these before and he was thinking if he should push further.

"The items are excellent, but I require something more. Something fashioned for me, anything that you have that is of excellent quality."

Baraqiel considered it for a moment and finally nods his head, "Surely the gear made by the Magic Ministry is superior to any that is in circulation right now? Including what we can procure and manufacture for you my Lord."

"Regardless, I would still like to see what you can do for me dear Baramus," he took out a coin from his pocket, one that the Angel immediately recognized, "I heard that your Trading House has more to offer, for those people who carry such a beautiful coin?"

It was one of the Yggdrasil coins that they disbursed before, "I understand Master Paradyne."

Baramus bowed and opened his palm asking for the coin, the old man laid the thick coin into his hand as he bowed once more and said, "Please, this way my Lord."

The Warmaster was correct, through word of mouth, those that managed to get one was offered additional selections unseen by all others. As the Angel clutched the coin in his palm, he led the old man to the stairs going to the 2nd floor and respectfully said, "My Lord Samuel and my colleague Zadicus have already been alerted of your presence Great master, they will show you the items or arrange for an item to be manufactured according to your specification."

"Thank you very much my good man."

Fluder walked up towards the 2nd floor without being stopped by the red-hooded soldiers that formed up the security personnel of Samuel's Trading House. He looked down and admired the burnished wooden steps, a small chandelier made of crystals hung from the ceiling as the top of the stairs showed 2 more guards at the final landing. As he reached them, they parted for him and lets him pass, he arrived in the end of a hall and saw Zadicus waiting for him in front of a door.

"Grandmaster Paradyne, my master is expecting you."

He was led to a set of double doors who was being guarded by two maroon robed soldiers, they opened the double doors at their approach. The old man entered the large room and found Samuel on a large table with maps and product samples as three Magos stood near him writing and reading out to him.

The merchant turned to the newcomer and exclaimed, "Ah! Master Paradyne, welcome to our Trading House. I would have guessed you would come calling to buy something of course, to what do we owe the pleasure of serving you today?"

"Grandmaster Paradyne wishes to acquire additional magical robes," Zadicus gestured to the old man, "Preferably those in our 'exclusive line' of products my Lord."

"I see," Samuel contemplated, "Was the necessary payment made?"

"Of course," the coin from Yggdrasil was produced, "He has given the payment already."

"Very well, Magos take all these away," the merchant clapped his hands and the red robed men with him quickly picked up the scrolls cluttered about and pushed the heavy table out of the way. A full sized mirror was slid out by servitors and the Tri-Arts Magic Caster was led right in front of it, Zadicus deftly took out a tape measure and began taking the measurements of the old man.

A Magos was writing out the measurements as Zadicus kept reading out the measurements softly to the scribe, Samuel stepped towards his drink cabinet and poured a conservative amount of whisky. He aired it out on a crystal glass and finally gave it to the old man who smiled and sniffed the bouquet of the hard drink on his hand.

"Now, tell me Master Paradyne, will your robes be for formal or for combat?"

"Both," the old man took a sip of the bronze liquid and took out another piece of Yggdrasil gold coin and handed it to Zadicus who took it in his hand respectfully, "It would be a shame to have such a luxurious item to be lost on a well placed magic spell."

"I assure you Master Paradyne that you would not need to worry about these robes," Samuel assured him, "For the formal robes, will it be for day or night?"

"Neutral for that color."

"For the combat one, robust or tactical?"

"Tactical?" Paradyne smiled at that, "I have never heard of that word before."

"Forgive me Grandmaster, I was merely asking if you would like your robes to be robustly armored and enchanted or is speed, technique and maneuverability your main goal of wearing magician robes."

"Is there a specific preference that I must choose?"

Samuel shrugged his shoulders, "Its all going to depend on how you fight and your style as a Magician."

The old man rubbed his long beard and finally said, "I have concentrated my knowledge on the best combat magic that I could find. So, I suppose Tactical is the best answer."

"As you wish," Zadicus also rattled off the measurements he was taking and the side notes and questions made by Samuel, "In the matter of magical resistance and amplification. Which pattern or style would you prefer? And the Tier as well?"

Fluder gave a small grin as he decided to test them, "Something that came from your lands perhaps, something that exceeds all expectations."

"I see," the Fallen also gave a small smile as he nods his head in understanding. So, the old man wishes to know if they were truly something else that they could give, or there was something else more from what he detected at the party. That statement was meant to see if he would react to it, luckily, he had a few brush-ins with such underhanded and loaded questioning.

Samuel asked again seemingly nonplussed, "Any particular tier of magic within 'reason' that you fancy Grandmaster?"

"6th-tier or beyond if you can manage it," a dangerous and deep hunger settled for a moment on the old man's bluish eyes, but it was only for a moment, yet it was captured the Fallen and his General, "Of course, if you can manage at least the 8th-tier then I might as well relinquish everything and follow you in servitude."

Servitude?

Sammael was shocked at the old man's words, was it really so easy to let everything go for the promise of power? To think that the Tri-Arts magic caster would talk to him about serving another when it is a known fact that he was the Imperial Court Magician, hero to the Baharuth Empire and one of the most well-known and powerful magic casters in history for the last 300 years. He had served 3 generations of the Imperial family line and now he talks of kneeling in front of someone else.

Was his need to know truly great for him to risk talking about treason so easily?"

The Fallen smiled once more, "Such powerful and thought evoking words from you Grandmaster, such danger in those words."

"Little Jir knows I thirst for my own goals, my dream of reaching the 'Well of Magic' that I have long sought for decades, centuries even," the old man waved it off and sighed, "I admit that the time has made me desperate for any leads, any way of 'advancement' on my magical stagnation. I simply am not getting stronger on both physically and magically."

Silence reigned as they both finished off their whiskeys, his measurements continued unabated as the Magos and Zadicus worked around the old man quickly and efficiently. He took the now empty whiskey glass and poured themselves another drink.

"Master Fluder, I forgot to ask if you would require a weapon as well? A wand, scepter or a staff perhaps?"

The old man rubbed his chin whenever he was thinking, "I would prefer a staff. A long one that I could use as a walking stick as well, wood would be nice, though any elder piece of staff would work best. I hope to channel mana and magic much faster without gripping another tool except for this staff."

"You're in luck then, we have received word of a treant sleeping in the Great Forest of Tob. A few gossips from the nobles that lived on the bordersl, apparently there were stories of an old cursed tree that awakened once every couple of years to 'feed' on its surroundings. Are you familiar with the said tree?"

Fluder stroked his long beard and said in contemplation, "Oh yes, I have seen this tree before that is inside the Forest of Tob. It was a malignant tree of legend, it was also said to have been one of the 6 Demon Lords at one time. It was the reason for the massive exodus of the Elven Kingdom from the Forest of Tob to the Forest of Evasha-"

"Forest of Evasha?" Samuel stopped as he looked towards Zadicus and imperceptibly nods his head, "Where is that place?"

"Hmm, it is one of the Great Forest that borders the western territories of the Slane Theocracy and the Abelion Hills," the Tri-Arts magic caster gave a small laugh, "Shame though, it was said that there were ruins of ancient civilizations among the banks of the Lake of the Half-Moon, but then again I was not able to confirm that."

"Really? Why is that?"

The old man shrugged nonchalantly, "Well, the Elves of course. They distrust humans so much that it is very rare to see an Elf adventurer these days, except those that have fallen to slavery. As such, I did not dare go there- I wished to travel wide back then and the border war of the Theocracy and the Elven Kingdom is a quarrel that I do not wish to partake on."

'Forest of Evasha, the same treant again, an Elven Kingdom. Looks like a job for the twins huh? Though this treant thing is beginning to interest me even more."

Zadicus bowed as he finished his measurements as the Fallen said, "Your measurements have been recorded and we would ask you to return tomorrow for the initial fitting and then a final fitting 3 days from now."

Fluder's eyes visibly twinkled and lets out a breath of contentment as he also downed his drink, it was smooth and fragrant, a bit bitter however, though it only adds to the flavor of the drink.

"Such speed and in such quality, you do know how to pamper an old man," the Angel General and the magos stepped outside as Fluder puts his glass on a table and sat on one of the plush chairs. His eyes held a dangerous glint as he seemed to measure the Warmaster's strength again, and pretty much like what he felt on the party.

There was nothing. A blank.

"It vexes me Master Samuel."

"What does vexes you Grandmaster?"

"Your magical presence," there was a slight glow in the eyes of the old man as he tried mightily to detect even a modicum of power from the Warmaster, "I feel nothing, not even a spark, or a semblance of being alive. Yet here you are standing in front of me, but it feels like your presence is a hole, a very deep hole where you lose all sense of distance, power and meaning."

"Are you saying that I am perhaps hiding something?"

"Are you then?"

Samuel played along, "Perhaps, though my reasons are my own for now. As a merchant, I believe in the concept of fair trade and so far, I see that I can sell you information."

"What makes you think that I will buy your information Master Trader?"

The Fallen gave a small laugh, "Ah, it is but a simple matter to seize my treasury and dishonor me and heap upon me unknown and outrageous charges considering your power. Yet, here I am sharing drink-" he filled the now empty wine glass as Fluder swirled the drink inside the crystal, "-with the person that wishes to know more about me. So, I can only conclude that your curiosity is your driving force to confront me, not power of course, just an overwhelming sense of 'knowing' am I right Master Fluder?"

"Spot on, you are an excellent judge of character."

"Indeed, well then, what are you willing to trade for this information about me? Can you indulge me in a query of my own first?"

Fluder smiled and took a sip of wine, "Speak and I shall endeavor to answer you to the best of my ability then."

"A powerful man you are Grandmaster, but I see you are still wanting, what is it that you want?" Samuel sat across from him and asked, "Do you desire further wealth, too shallow but I guess its fine. More fame perhaps? Too vain if you asked me. But we both know, you are neither of those which now begs again my question, what is it that you want most?"

The choice gave the old man pause, why was he being asked this? Was there an end game to all these? Perhaps, maybe-

"All those you mentioned matters little to me, in fact I care not for such temporary things," suddenly there was a dark and deranged look that passed over the old man, "But I do want to reach the abyss of magic."

'Abyss of magic? What the-' Sammael genuinely did not know, "Care to elaborate Grandmaster?"

Swirling the last of the reddish liquid called brandy in his glass, the old man took a measured sip and sighed contentedly, "The abyss of magic is about a theory about magic lore, akin to an endless well of all magic. A figurative place of course, where all of life take their magical from, it allows us to utilize the benefits of magic and its connection to all living things. This link allows each and every being to use magic, although for you and your servants, there doesn't seem to be any link at all. That conclusion is impossible since all who live and breathe can and has the potential to use it, even an undead lich has this link, which makes me conclude you and your servants are Pariahs. You are all blanks."

"I see, so, what would you do if you were given the chance to see beyond what you can see? To feel something that you have never felt before, to have something in your grasp. What would you give in return Master Fluder?"

The dark and twisted look returned at the old man facade and the Fallen almost reeled back at the deranged mask the former jovial face had taken. It was as if a different man suddenly came upon sitting in front of him. It looks like this was the true face of the Tri-Arts Magic Caster Fluder Paradyne, a human so driven with finding his dream of the abyss of magic that it corrupted him. Though he wore a warm and friendly mask in front, it was merely put to cover the rot within his heart, yet its content could not be held so easily that its pus-filled and decaying interior would occasionally show its ugly side as what is happening now.

Regardless, this is a fortuitous occasion indeed.

"Master Trader, if I would be given a chance to have the abyss of magic in arms length, then I would give everything."

Sammael was not satisfied with that, "Everything Master Paradyne?"

The look of longing intensified as the old man's mask crumbled at the revelation, "I will give it everything, even this Empire if it is asked for I hold no faith to anything except to the God of Magic. This God, who rules and presides over magic, if you can show me this God of Magic then I will immediately recant all faiths and fellowships and prostrate myself before them in supplication and worship."

A cold chill seeped through the Warmaster's body as a way 'inside' the Empire's inner circle finally presented itself.

The Fallen clapped his fingers and said, "Zadkiel!"

From outside, the double doors swung wide open in a rush as the General rushed towards his liege. He bowed respectfully as the old man looked at him thoughtfully, there was a steady thrum of power coming from him now, and it was exponentially rising as well.

"Summon your brothers Leliel and Bardiel to me, the Tri-Arts Magic Caster would be our guest today."

"As you command my Lord," Zadkiel bowed and vanished in a flash of light. The old man's eyes widened at that magic, a mana blank was casting magic in front of him, how is that possible? It was not a [Gate] spell nor was it any martial art that he had heard of. It was something else entirely and judging from the mana traces, it is a far superior spell than that. Perhaps even superior than that? So, would that make him correct about these individuals then?

Fluder watched as the merchant Samuel swirls the last of his drink on his glass and downs it in one go as he threw back his head.

"It is as you suspected Master Paradyne," the Fallen began to say, "We are powerful magic casters, although I can show you later, but I would prefer that you know who you are dealing with. Let me say it clearly once, I have never heard nor seen any of this 'abyss of magic' theory that you have professed to me, nor can I recall that I heard any reference to this. Is this a term that you have coined and is this a concept you have drew a hypothesis on?"

"It is a culmination of all my magical research so far, as I have said, the abyss of magic is a figurative place where all magic is coming from. Where mana is used freely and without preamble, like where it all began that all aspects of magic seemed primal at best. It is where are our world and all those who live in it get their mana from, every living thing, every object or place that is magical, it draws all its energy and magic from that abyss."

Samuel genuinely was mystified, "Are you talking about heaven perhaps?"

"Heaven? Heaven is a different concept and of differing spatial plain, it is where the angels and the Gods are residing," it was Fluder's turn to nurse his drink, "The Slane Theocracy teaches that heaven is where the 6 Gods reside however, even though I have read about it, researched and interpolated with the numerous priests and clergymen from the Theocracy, I have not found any facts and concrete information to prove nor refute this information about heaven."

This gave the Fallen some pause, "That is truly unfortunate, because you see, I am very much curious about the Gods in this world and I would very much like to know more about them. Any traces that would lead me to a higher understanding of these Gods, their names, their faces, even their teachings and their origin."

"I do not know how much of a help I can be, but if you wish to know more about the 6 Gods then you need to visit the Slane Theocracy. They possess the artifacts left behind by those Gods," Fluder smiled and stroked his beard before taking another sip, "I have read reports before that the Theocracy have God-kin among their ranks. Though I can probably confirm it since their numerous specialized Scriptures are evident to that and to the strength and power of those that are under their mantle."

"You said God-kin? What are they?"

"It is what it is, they are kins of Gods, descendants of the 6 Gods although they are now noble families," Fluder puts the empty glass on the table and sighed, "Each and every leader of the Scripture is a rumored descendant though their blood is probably diluted by now, but the fact remains that the blood of some of the Gods are there at least."

"Some you say?"

The old man shrugged his shoulders, "The God of Death is undead, he could not produce any heir of course. Curiously, he is the only undead that was recorded to not have been hostile against life. He was considered benevolent although his powers stem from the darkness and completely hostile of life."

There was a sudden flash of light as Fluder once more did not felt nor sense any magic being casts within his vicinity. Whereas the servant Zadicus stood before, there were 2 others with him now. The old man somewhat relaxed though, there was no ill intent, no outwards show of hostility or force, just 3 submissive looking mana blanks that totally confounded him once more.

All 3 men bowed slightly towards their master as he spoke with an authority he had not heard him use before.

"With my permission, remove your shackles."

Fluder watched as the 3 moved at the same time and grasps the obsidian black ring on their left ring finger. As one, they pulled it off their fingers and clutched it inside their closed fist. There was a momentary silence and then suddenly he felt it, power inundated him from the trio of men who stood before him. They were exuding so much power that the old man did not notice he was actually holding his breathe. For all his years wandering this world, never in his existence did he ever see such magic overflow from anyone at all. By all human standards he was powerful, albeit there are others admittedly, such as Rigrits who are on par or at least above him. But the 3 servants are beyond even the most powerful Dragonlords he had seen, and he had visited the Karnassus City State and the Argland Council State Alliance and never had he encountered such magic density as them.

Easily the 8th-tier!

Not only did he saw them in their magical capacity, one by one their bodies were wreathed in a glow of holy light. Fluder had never seen such magical might before, with just 1 servant he could destroy this city in one swing. He stared in wonder at the halo on their heads, their individually feathered wings which looked simply massive and their aura that inundated him with so much force he felt like drowning from the sheer amount of force. He could not control the tears that fell from his eyes at the rush of emotion that he felt such happiness that there would be something more that he can attain, something he can learn, it was not the end for him. As terror also gripped him as such creatures are indubitably fickle and would simply dismiss him if they would not be pleased with him.

So, he did the only gesture he could do for now, he prostrated. Deeply.

"M-my lords! Ple-please! Oh please- Oh please, I am begging you," the glass he was clutching shattered on the floor as the coldness of the marble mattered little to him, and quite frankly, he barely noticed as a desperate plea came from his trembling lips, "T-teach me, teach me all you know! Please- my Lords! Mercy! Mercy for me!"

Sammael could not believe it, the Tri-Arts Magic Caster, the Empire's number 2 would willingly grovel for a chance, he gave a small sigh and said, "Pick him up."

Zadkiel approached Fluder and carefully dragged him up to a standing position, "My Lord commands you to stand, control yourself and listen to him."

"Y-YEs, of course- Of course I will," his sanity was somewhat reigned in as the old man could not take his eyes of the 3, then his eyes widened as realization hit him. If these 3 are able to command the 8th-tier of magic so easily, what else of the being that commands them so, he turned to Samuel with a look of longing and tentatively asked, "My Lord, I must know- for you to easily command such beings, are you perhaps a God?"

Samuel shrugged his shoulders and stood up from the chair, he waved his hands towards an open area of the room and a black roiling mass of darkness appeared before them. The old man looked at it nervously, he could feel and see enormous magic pouring out of the black chasm and he casts it so simply, without incantation, preparation or even a modicum of effort!

"Follow," he said nonchalantly as he then turned towards the Angels, "Zadkiel accompany me, Leliel our plan will move forward, Bardiel secure our Trading House ensure that we are implementing the 10% discount for senior citizens and persons with disability."

"Understood, Warmaster."

All 3 Angels bowed in acknowledgement as Zadkiel followed him with Fluder through the [Gate], Leliel vanished in a flash of light and Bardiel wore his shackles once more and fixed his dark-tinted glasses. He walked out of the now empty room as the roiling mass of magic finally dissipated.

.

'Warmaster?'

Fluder wondered of the title his Angels spoke of and its meaning, though judging from the way they speak and carry themselves. It was like seeing the Empire's military and the interactions of the officers with each other, yet the meaning of the title seemed obvious. A military rank and title meant he was a being of power and being a master of war meant he was a great commander right?

No matter, he could not concentrate further as he finally stepped out of the dark chasm they walked to a few moments ago. His thoughts were correct, it was a dimensional gate considering they were now outside of Arwintar as he saw a large sprawling garden among the clouds. He felt he could not be shocked even more, evidently he was wrong on so many levels. Starting with the spell that they used to arrive in this new location, from what he saw and the knowledge that he have read before, what was casted was a [Gate] spell. It is rumored to be a 9th-tier spell that requires a massive amount of magic, control and know how, and has been used by the 6 Gods to quickly travel to and fro on a location. Though they are gone, that spell can be casts by the Slane Theocracy only by preparing a large amount of human magic casters who can cast short-distance teleportation. By arranging themselves and aligning to the correct flow of magic, the Theocracy was able to replicate what they just did a while ago. They could teleport a group of people large distances however, aside from the fact that it will require a large preparation on the part of the users, it also tolls greatly the magic casters who contribute in the casting, plus there have been a few documentation of mishaps due to human error and loss of concentration.

Master Samuel though when he casts a spell of a higher tier merely waved his hand non-chalantly, as if he was bored and casting the spell was a simple matter to him.

And on top of that he is still not exuding any modicum of power whatsoever, although he now learned that they carried jewelry that could suppress their power. He felt no magic coming from him when he opened the [Gate] for them towards this lush garden amidst the clouds, a feat so impossible that- wait.

"M-My Lord, are we perhaps on Eryuentiu?"

"Eryuentiu?" once more Samuel's thoughts are piqued, "I have never heard of that."

"It is the home of the 8 Greed Kings, a flying castle that is shaped like a large bowl," he detected a slight interest on his voice that emboldened the old man, "It is located due south of the borders of the Slane Theocracy, it is located in the middle of the desert, where there are no possible water source except the cursed home of the Greed Kings."

"Can you tell me more? Their floating fortress is exuding water?"

Fluder shook his head on a somewhat disappointing memory, "I have set foot on the city that grew below that magical place, the water cascades down from the fortress going to the city below, which gives it its life and allows vegetable and fruit bearing tree. It has become an oasis city if you wish to travel beyond the center of the continent."

"Why did you go there anyway?"

"I was looking for any leads towards the abyss of magic and their flying fortress has a large collection of books, tomes, and scrolls of power. Additionally, the Platinum Dragon Lord has made it his home and bestows artifacts from the Greed Kings treasure to anyone that is worthy."

Zadkiel looked elated as Master Samuel smiled as he looked back at the old man, he knew that his Maker was pleased with the old man. All these information could not have come at a better time, he heard that he needed to corroborate the intelligence report from Nigun. And judging from the slight spring in the step of the Supreme Being, he was really happy with this.

Fluder on the other hand did not notice that though, he was wondering how could they walk through a cobblestone plaza with numerous gazebos, birds and trees and colorful flags fluttering about could remain in the sky for so long. Suddenly, another entity captured his attention, a blue armored giant of a man or perhaps it was truly an Angel landed in front of Master Samuel. He tried to stifle his excitement as the aura of the blue armored angel who bowed low towards his master did so in a reflection of both respect and worship.

If nothing else, 4 of his servants can use the 8th-tier magic that almost tried to stifle him a while ago, imagining what he was capable of simply made his hands shake even more with anticipation.

As the blue giant stood up, Samuel turned towards him and took hold of the black ring on his left hand.

There was a wave of silence that erupted from the Merchant followed by a wave of light that made Fluder flinch and close his eyes for a moment. Finally, as he felt the warmth of the aura washing over him gently, he felt fresh tears streaming down his wrinkled cheeks as he knelt in front of the Warmaster as the shroud that hid him from his 'sight' was finally lifted and he could now see him in all his glory.

10th-tier of magic, the legendary tier that only Gods could reach now stood in front of him. No human could even hope to attain such power, yet now one stood in front of him, and he knew that his goal of reaching the abyss of magic where only Gods dwell would begin soon. He looked at the godly being in front of him, he had long flowing black hair, warm golden eyes, and an inverted wing sprouted from his back which is the same as his servants, each wing was individually feathered and glittered with gold dust that shimmered in the bright sun.

Fluder once more bowed as he prostrated, "Venerable God of magic, please, I beseech you, teach me all you know."

Master Samuel spoke in a deep baritone voice, his commanding presence sent shivers down his spine, "Fluder, you now see what I am truly am, I have asked you before and I shall ask you again, what can you offer me in exchange to see what you have not seen, to feel what you have not felt, and to know what you have not known before?"

"Everything my Lord!" the Tri-Arts Magic caster raised his head towards the Warmaster as he opened his arms wide as he knelt in supplication, "Everything! Everything you ask of me!"

Fluder looked like a crucified messiah begging him for favors, this gesture mysteriously pleased him as he opened his left hand and beckoned for him as he smiled, "Stand up then Fluder, we have much to discuss, though before that I wish for you to meet someone."

"Who my Lord? Who else should I meet?"

The Supreme Being gave a small laugh, "We will meet a friend of mine."

Another being made its presence felt as he turned towards another roiling mass of power. Finally, a power that rivaled the Fallen Angel stepped out as the old man can only shudder in disbelief. If the Warmaster was akin to a sun, then the newcomer seemed like abyss itself, its two red undead orbs looked back at him with palpable power.

"Oh my Lords," he couldn't help but to kneel once more, "The Gods have truly arrived."

.

.

Slane Theocracy - Outskirts of Kami Miyako

.

The last rays of the sun graced the mighty city of the human nation of the Slane Theocracy, the city was illuminated by torches and flame braziers. Contradictory to what people think, this nation who boasted to be the foremost nation in magic and technology could not even light their city with unending. Which is understandable considering the leaders of the nation cannot conjure such magic infinitely, only the Gods are capable of that of course, still it was the foremost bastion of humanity against all that threatened her. Such evil beings like the beastmen, undead, and demihumans that take the perfect form of a human. These spawns of evil should and will perish for all the teachings of the 6 Gods had blessed humanity to subjugate what was once preyed upon them.

As such, the capital city housed the largest population in all of the cities of this nation, not to mention the main Basilica for the 6 Gods. Not Cathedral or minor Basilica, it was their main basilica that boasted a floor area that has a uniform length of 90 meters and width of 60 meters. The central basilica of the faith that was located in the middle was both 100 meters wide and 100 meters in length, it was made to be uniformed to ensure that all points of this world will be welcomed and would face this central building. Many officials, generals, even head of Scriptures make this large city their home, including the former head of the Sun Scripture, Nigun Grid Luin.

Though his home was located at the outskirts, their family chose this so that they may not lose the magnificent view of the city during the night. To remind them of their duty and the promise of the 6 Gods to mankind.

Now, as he opened his eyes to the truth, for a bunch of old men professing that the Gods favored them, it seemed their fallacy is revealed even more. The hold on power has been on their grasp for too long and the essence of justice and fairness that is the root of all that is good has been washed away by centuries of dogma. Yet, he is hopeful that the Gods who had taken him under their blessings would truly guide them forwards. And now, as he watched a large carriage carrying his guest for the night, he fixed his coat and sighed deeply.

"Glory to the Supreme Beings."

.

Count Erythro, of the noble house of Mycin stepped down from the carriage as he looked at the large mansion/villa in front of him. This place has so many fond memories for him, it was where he met his first true friend, upon which, his father and the former head of this house were also best friends. Perhaps it runs in the family, the same way the military runs through their blood. The former Lord and his father were former partners in the Theocracy officer corps and this house was one of their summer villas, previously gifted to him after a successful purge of a settlement of demi-humans in the Abelion Hills a few years before he and Nigun were born. Regrettably, they separated as his father ventured into the trading sector after their mandatory service and used his considerable influence as a noble and their wealth to increase the family's stature. His friend , the former Luin family head, became a commander of a Scripture himself and garnered more honor, reknown and influence in the military until finally, tragically giving his life in the upholding of the teaching of the Theocracies Creed against their 100 year War with the Elves.

'The Superiority of Humanity.'

Letters carved on the awning in front of the main door as he remembered the artisan who carved those words on the marble stone. He sighed as he stepped inside the villa, it was quiet and only one maid welcomed him and directed his carriage to the stables to refresh their horses.

The walled estate was located on the outskirts of Kami Miyako and was deep within the Theocracy's territory. Patrols were regular and was always heavily armed and no incursion, demihuman or human, have ever gone unnoticed. The eyes of the Thousand League Astrologer, including the Windflower and Clearwater Scripture also looked out for any threats including the numerous independent forces deployed by the walled cities that dotted the Theocracy. If an army or a threat should enter, then it would only be a few minutes before they are found. Additionally, being the house of a Scripture Captain is afforded a 24 hour monitoring in its coming and going and as such, they are as safe as they could ever be. His assistant stayed within the carriage as instructed by the Count as he made his way into the house, in the event he did not call for him, then they would bed down for the night as he might spend the night here. Considering they have done so multiple times, it is not a new thing for the assistant and carriage driver to carry their own implements for the night.

Walking up the steps, he was reaching for the door when it opened suddenly and he found himself looking down on a diminutive maid he had never seen before. Her hair was tied up in two buns, her outfit looked exotic and she was wearing something like a stocking or some other wear he could not even remember where he saw it once.

The maid bowed down and kept her stance while speaking, "Greetings my Lord," her voice was small, sweet and soft, "Lord Nigun is expecting you, please follow me."

She turned immediately and walked off as she led him inside, the Count followed quickly as he found the attitude of the maid quite peculiar. Perhaps she is new and still learning the ways of the noble house? But why would Nigun need a new maid? From what he knew he could guess that one of the maids had quit again, his friend has a good heart with those he view as equals although he had known for a long time he is quite narcissistic and quite full of himself. Understandably, since they were both raised in such a way that their superiority to the common man is both by blood and by nobility. They were descendants of the Gods and they could trace their bloodline up to one of the families that was sired by the Great Gods themselves, though unlike the God-kins who manifested a portion of the power of the heavenly beings. Though their families were unable to display a modicum of power that the Gods wielded, they retained their humanity, which did not diminish their worth in the eyes of the Theocracy.

Now, a sliver of doubt and whispers of infidelity gripped his friend as the higher-ups of the Theocracy absolved him from all sins and pronounced him guiltless amidst the scandal of the botched assassination mission that was quashed by an unknown being that not even the Thousand League Astrologer was capable of looking into, which was odd considering she was more powerful than all the Miko Princesses for her divination skills.

Plus, the Theocracy managed to spin the story of the assassination plot into a simple misunderstanding between the Re-Estize Kingdom and their nation, but it has strained somewhat their international relations.

Additionally, there were whispers of spells against Nigun, about him possibly being charmed or his mind being addled that affected his ability to think, reason, or one that forced him to hold his tongue on secret information regarding his captors. Their faces, their ideals, their motives for impeding the duty of the Theocracy to dictate and shape the human nations against nations that are indubitably not human. Adding to the already shameful defeat at an undead spell caster, incriminating evidence against his clandestine works, and the loss of his core members of the Theocracy. There was a small gathering of the families of his missing men right after his public inquisition, they were demanding for his death and compensation for the loss of their family.

Of course, the Cardinals would not sentence Nigun to death since it would be a waste to do so and would deny humanity the chance to take advantage of his genes. Whatever the reason the leadership had for his continued survival, he came here for him and it is this reason that he came here alone. Resigning himself to sorting this out tonight, he squared his shoulders as he was finally led to a room slightly illuminated by torches and candle. In the middle of the room sat Nigun, he was dressed in his casual tunic and their eyes met with the familiarity of family.

"Nice to see you again, asshole," Nigun stood up with a smile and a twinkle in his eyes.

"You stupid, uncultured shit. What the heck did you do again huh?" Erythro closed the gap between them and the two men embrace, "I am glad your alive, can't say the same for your missing men."

"I know," he poured himself some wine and his friend as well, "Believe me when I tell you that, which I have seen, you would not believe."

Erythro took a sip of the wine and shrugged his shoulders, "After reading the reports, I don't know what else to think. Was it really that bad?"

"Remember this?" he gestured to the scar on his face courtesy of 'Blue Rose' when they prevented him from slaughtering a tribe of demi-human that was tasked by the Cardinals.

"I remember that, a small price to pay in service to the 6 Gods."

"It was worse brother, through my ordeal 1 question did worm its way into my mind. Are the 6 Gods truly our Gods?" Nigun whispered the words, but he could have been shouting from atop of a great tower as the implied meaning thundered through the noble's mind.

He frowned and took a larger gulp on his cup of wine, "Does my ears betray me? Is the last living line of the Luin noble family wavering in his faith?"

"Faith! What do these people know about faith? What do they know of my suffering? They judge me because of the dubious deeds I made for the Theocracy, yet non truly know of the sacrifice I had to make," he turned a hurtful look at his friend, "I thought you would understand best, you should know how much I upheld the teachings and core beliefs of the Theocracy."

"Perhaps, because sometimes we are the only one's who know of our sacrifice, but the Gods are merciful. These people are just it, they are people and their views are flawed, unlike what the Gods view on your deeds. Yet the other nobles who are in the military-"

"Damn them, what do they whisper now about me?" the former Captain's voice spat out bitterness, "Baby killer? Assassin? Bane of the Theocracy?"

Erythro took another swig of wine, "Somewhere along those lines, yet again those are just words. This is excellent wine by the way-"

"I am glad you approve, but the fact remains that my faith is shaken and this I admit to you."

The noble nods his head and took another sip of wine and some dried raisins on the table, "Was this in connection to the failed assassination attempt and your subsequent captivity?"

Nigun slowly nods his head and whispered, "If I ever encountered a being that is close to a God, then those Magic Casters are it. Such magic cannot be wielded so simply by an Undead and a Fallen Angel and the 10th tier magic they wielded is simple for such divine beings.."

'Fallen Angel? His reports never said anything about an angel at all,' the word piqued Erythro's interest even more, "Surely that is not true, not only do the power of the Gods an insurmountable odds, but no human or entity could reach the 10th Tier for the simple reason of absurdity and impossibility. And if these are Gods then these powerful individuals should have been revealed to the Cardinals already, additionally, how can you be sure of their status as a Supreme Being?"

"Because I have fought these Supreme Beings and survived," there was a deranged look on Nigun's eyes as he looked back at his friend, "I begged, I begged for my life and for them to grant me mercy. And so I am here, my life is in their hands, they granted mercy when I should have been killed, they said I would be of use, that I have a purpose for them."

A cold feeling gripped Erythro at his friend's words and he felt a tug on the pit of his stomach, if his friend is found to be consorting with an unknown force, he would be branded a traitor, their wealth seized and their name tarnished forevermore. He gulped a bit with apprehension as he asked, "What is this purpose then?"

"To be an instrument," Nigun said confidently, "A small piece in their scenario in their ascension to this world."

A cold chill sent goose bumps through his skin as he heard the whispered voice of his deranged friend. There's no other explanation to this, Nigun has officially lost his mind. He downed the wine in one gulp and sighed, "Have you considered going to the healers and getting yourself checked out?" he tried joking, anything to break this train of thought from his friend.

But Nigun's tone grew even more somber, "Erythro, what I am about to tell you is a story about these Gods, it would be wise if you would not repeat this to unfriendly ears, if you do not wish to partake in this with me then you may leave and must tell no other about what I am about to tell you," his voice sounded grave as his black eyes hardened even more, "If you tell a soul I cannot guarantee your safety my friend, do I have your word you would not say it? Would you swear in your vows?"

"You don't play fucking fair," his best friend shook his head as he took out a piece of jewelry that was hidden behind his tunic, "By my sacred vows as a High Confessor of the Earth God, I would keep my peace and spoke no lie, and if I have to hear heretical words from my friend to beat some sense into him then so be it. Fuck the holy water, just give me wine."

The former Captain gave a small laugh as he filled the noble Confessor's cup, "The Scripture that I have commanded was wiped out by a God that took the form of a Fallen Angel."

"Wait, what do you mean Fallen Angel?"

Nigun gave an exasperated sigh, "You know that I summon Angels right and I can do multiple or a higher-tiered angel? But the one that decimated the Scripture was only one being and he could simultaneously control all our summons-"

"-wait, all your summons? How is that possible?" Erythro looked back at him with disbelief, "Once an Archangel Flame is summoned then it is tied to your consciousness, why would they be controlling it?"

"I felt it, I saw its control against the Angels we summoned and with one command he wrestled the controls away from us and shut us off from our summon. Not only did he wrestled control, he also enhanced them beyond what the Theocracy is capable off."

"Oh-oh that is heresy, so much heresy," the Confessor took another swig of wine and filled his cup again, "Don't mind my rambling, please continue."

"I have summoned the 'Dominion Authority' during that battle, but a servant of the Supreme Being destroyed a trump card of the Theocracy with a simple spell. Not only that, the power was so powerful that it destroyed a hill that was in the line of the blast. Their powers overflowed from their being and managed to choke me and my forces with me, we lost consciousness right then and there."

Erythro rubbed his chin, "It is not unheard of that a person or a group of person can be affected by the sudden change in magical density, perhaps that is what has affected you. Additionally, I have not read these specific details on your debriefing report, in fact, you did not mention a sliver of these information you are spouting to me. Oh dear, more heresy, damn it Nigun, what would you have me do now? How can I keep all this down!? Heresy! Go on please."

"I am giving you the truth, I met a being that could use one spell to destroy a summoned angel," the former Captain sighed, "One spell was all it took to destroy the 'Dominion of Authority', one spell was all it took to shake my belief that we held about that summoned Angel being capable of destroying a demon lord, to be indestructible, yet it folded in a single spell. One spell to make me see how such a folly we view the 6 Gods that we are serving."

It's official now, Erythro concluded in his mind, Nigun has gone down a heretical path. There was no hint of lie and deceit, nor was there any hesitation or second guessing.

"What else did you see?"

"Legions upon legions of soldiers, too numerous to count. The symbols of the other Gods that they have slain-"

"Beg your pardon? Your 'fallen angel' has slain Gods? That's absurd!"

"No, its not, I have walked on their palace that floats above the clouds," Nigun's eyes turned melancholic, but again no lie or deceit could be seen, "I have seen their legions of red-robed soldiers and golden armored giant like men, I have gazed upon his direct servants and such angelic creatures that do not kneel except to the 'Fallen', the symbols of the numerous Gods they have slain in the hundreds."

"H-hold on," Erythro puts the wine cup on the table as he tried to focus, "Hold on, so you are telling me that these 'beings' you encountered has slain Gods, have a castle that floats in the air, has legions of soldiers under him and employs golden armored giant men? That's out of this world and in case you forget the history of the Gods, only the 'Eight Greed Kings' were capable of killing a God. Plus, the only reason of 'Lord Shursanas' demise is because he fought them alone by himself for humanity, May He bless us with his immortal hand, that was the only reason he could have not prevailed against them. None is as blessed as are those that embraced death for the God of Death will surely welcome them in his realm."

"The Fallen has blessed me-"

"Fuckin' hell more heresy-" the Confessor looked outraged at his friend, "- didn't I just said that only the Gods may bestow their blessing?"

"Blessing? I have never seen nor received such inadequate blessing, except for one that I have received from My Lord."

Suddenly, there was a malevolent force that seemed to ooze out of Nigun. Never before had he sensed such palpable force from his friend, nor did he ever exuded such power before his heretical encount- oh dear.

"I sense a dark energy coming from you, my friend."

Nigun opened his tunic and there in the middle was the Mark of Chaos, the 8-pointed star, the symbol of the Warmaster himself. Now, with his mind churning all manner of supplication he softly said, "This is my blessing," he puts his hand on the stone floor and gripped it hard. Without much effort, the heretic took a chunk of stone out of the floor. He then held it in front of his friend and squeezed in one go, as his hands closed together, the stone was pulverized easily as the smaller chunks and powdered stone rolled off of his clenched hand.

"Wha- how? S-shit."

"Behold, the blessing of my God," his blackened hand which was actually due to the numerous runes and writings of an unknown language condensed together, he took another piece of stone and crushed it again using his hand.

Erythro's eyes were wide like plates, "Wha-What sorcery is this!?" his voice pitch increased an

"This is not sorcery, this can only be their blessing. Do you know how much I have to restrain myself not to destroy those that I touch?" he looked at Erythro through slit like eyes and gave a dangerous smile, "If you only knew my friend that this is merely a taste of what a God can actually do, they told me that their blessing is as varied as those made by creation. It was said that the blessing will depend on the trait you are weakest at and increase your proficiency in your strongest. If you are worthy of course and able to earn their eternal favor."

The Confessor stood up, his indignation evident in his eyes, "This is insane Nigun, such blasphemy cannot be accepted in the Theocracy! They'll hang you, you'll be drawn and have you quartered! Be crucified even for Gods sake!"

"Worry and fear not my foolish friend," almost giddily the heretic beckoned him closer as he led him outside of the living room, "There are others that have accepted such promises."

The house was silent and dark, shadows hid in every corner and nothing stirred inside and outside. He kept his silence as he led his friend towards the direction of the cellars. Pausing at the archway, Erythro heard hushed voices and muffled chanting at the lower levels, loud whipcracks could also be heard as intermingled cries of pain as he was led down. Silently, the diminutive maid who led him inside sidled behind them, the way down was dark and lit only by torches as the shadows seemed to play a trick into the mind while the empty stone corridors distort sound and twist echoes. They persistently walked towards the end of the cellar of the manor until finally the Confessor's eyes widened in a mixture of fear, disbelief and awe rolled into one.

A disturbing vision came into his eyes as almost a dozen people were gathered in the cellar. He could recognize a few of them, some of them represented the 2nd in line heirs of noble families, those that have disillusioned themselves away from the family riches. Obviously, those that are weakened by their elder siblings position. Each and every one had their faces illuminated by the torches around them as he looked in shock at some of the important people he can identify, there were leaders of the local and Theocracy's Judiciary, Military and Legislative branches, even two of the Head Scribes and Personal Assistants of the High Cardinals were present chanting and writhing in unseen ecstasy. The numerous candles that illuminated the place hid more people as they chanted heretical words over and over again in a center circle drawn with a symbol he had already seen before.

An 8 pointed star pulsed with power in the center of the circle, the same symbol that also pulsed and was marked on Nigun's chest.

The symbols around it looked archaic and they also thrummed with power and it inevidently made the skin on Erythro's body crawl. Over and over they chanted a few mumbling words as Nigun himself finally walked over to the center of the circle and said, "All power demands sacrifice... and paiiinnnnn... the Supreme Beings rewards those willing to spill their life's blood for the promise of powerrr..."

Eldritch energies danced and curled from 4 other symbols that surrounded the emblem of Chaos. It was not clear before, but there were small statuettes there that resembled in moving order a two headed bird, fat toad, an angry looking ram and a female looking body with a male phallic on it. Certainly, it was bizaare to the eyes, but he can't seem to stop looking at it. Unbeknownst to him, the whispers he was hearing were actually the sounds of supplication said softly by those around him. From behind, the crack of the whip for those asking for mercy flagellated themselves as the pain coursed through their bodies. Nigun who made his way towards the center of the circle now removed his upper tunic and took a silver knife from his belt. In the middle of the circle, a silver bowl was on the ground mounted on top a pile of bleached skulls, holding his left arm over it the former Captain slid the silver knife as he opened his skin.

The mark of the Gods activated as the pain from the wound was instantly gone and the trickling blood abated on its own. Erythro's throat felt dry as he tried to comprehend his old friend who is leading a heretical ceremony, inside the borders of the Theocracy's main city, in the seat of their power. He still hasn't noted the maid beside him as he stood transfixed on what is going on. He then heard his friend speak, but it was somewhat distorted by the supplications of those around him.

"Let this wound signify the first blow to the False Gods, let this blood awaken those that have formerly slept in one's self, let me be the human instrument that would herald the coming of the Supreme Beings."

One by one the worshippers made their way towards the silver bowl, their minds overflowing with the visions and the saturation of power within them. One by one they trooped towards the bowl and they dipped their heads and took a hearty draught. As they walked away, blood trickled down to their bodies as they licked the last of the blood that Nigun had shed. Some collapsing on their way to the side as pain and power wracked through their bodies, Nigun took the bowl after the last noblewoman fainted after taking part of the blessed liquid as he headed towards Erythro.

"By my blessed blood, to you I impart to you a pact, a link to the true Supreme Beings."

Erythro though stood transfixed at his approaching friend as a small voice suddenly spoke behind him. He looked surprisingly behind him as he looked down and saw the diminutive maid's unblinking eyes and immovable lips.

"Will you not drink?" once more her lips did not move at all, "Will you not pay the price? The price of power?"

"What is this price?" he focused at the maid and asked, "What will I pay?"

Her smile unmoving and her purple eyes glowing from the same malevolent power slowly suffusing her. Her voice sent a chill that grated on his back as her voice changed from the small sweet one to something inhuman, "......eEvERryythHIIngGG."

A foreboding sense of death gripped him as her voice subtly promised varying ways for him to die should he choose poorly. The choice arrived as Nigun stood in front of him carrying the silver bowl with his blood in it pulsating the malevolent power he felt before. His mind blanked as he felt a malevolent force coming from behind him, fear gave way as he lets go of his Crozius, a symbol of his office that doubles as a weapon of sorts, took the silver bowl in his hands and tipped the content towards his lips. He felt like puking as the metallic taste roiled in his mouth, his friend's blood repulsed him on a primal level as he had no previous inclinations in consuming blood. Nostrils flaring and his tongue seemed to numb at the liquid now dribbling down his throat, but a new sensation seemed to overtake and threatened to overwhelm his senses.

Erythro gave a strangled cry as his knees buckled at the pain suddenly that's wracking his body. Visions began to pour inside his mind, as he collapsed on the floor writhing in pain.

Nigun immediately knelt beside his friend and cradled his head, "It's all right, I am here for you. It is painful, but it is necessary for you to know and understand. Bear with it, just bear with it and listen to my voice my brother. Come and accept the gifts, looks past the pain and see the good that you will do in the end. Surrender-"

"IsH hE DEaddDDDdD?"

"Don't be absurd, he can take this," he looked at the battle maid and frowned as his hand was gripped tighter by the writhing Erythro, "And would you please change your voice, there's no need to persuade him further."

"As you wish," Entoma looked at the numerous writhing bodies on the floor as those that recovered after experiencing such pain was now restored and able to move on their own, "It seems that there are more who survived the process today."

Nigun smiled at that, "I suppose it pays to indoctrinate them first and give a demonstration instead of asking them to believe outright. The first batch were mostly skeptical, unlike these lot, plus you and I were unsure if they would turn willingly. Though the initial batch had a turned around of at least 15%, at least now we managed to increase it to 85%. Turns out we must have those that have lingering thoughts of heresy and people that had a flawed conviction of the Theocracy itself. We can ensure that we would have more survivors once we initiate the process again, though it is truly painful," as he tried to hold down his friend who was still writhing in pain, now noticeably subsiding.

"You somehow survived a direct contact from the Supreme Being."

"That is because I had faith and believed in the Warmaster."

"A wise choice for you heretic," Entoma walked over to a human that had succumbed and was overcome with the pain. She easily dragged the full-grown male by the arm as she called out to him from the shadows, "I'm hungry, so I shall be cleaning this mess, you can take the survivors outside to clear their minds and for some 'proper' refreshments. I know that drinking blood is not exactly conducive for humans am I right?"

The former Captain nods in agreement just in time as Erythro's eyes flew wide open as he exclaimed both in shock and terror, he grabbed Nigun's neck and met his eyes with his own.

"What in the Six Holy Heavens did I just see?"

"Welcome back, my friend," Nigun was elated his friend survived, he smiled encouragingly at him and said, "What did you see?"

"I- I couldn't fucking explain what I just saw so I will be speaking only of what I remember," Erythro grasped his head and massaged his temple as a vein throbbed painfully, "I- I saw myself standing on top of the White Tower overlooking the borders of Kami Miyako, there on the edges marched legions upon legions of red-robed soldiers. As many as the sand in the sea, as many as my eye could see, fire enveloped the capital city as large flying monstrosities rained fire and lightning from the skies..."

"What else did you see?"

"T-the view shifted- I was now on top of a hill, overlooking the Beastmen Kingdom and I was- I was declaring from the top of my lungs as you stood beside me," the Confessor could not believe it, the vision was so vivid it seemed impossible to discern the truth from vision, "Heed me, those that have shamed and dismissed the kindness and the hand of mercy that the Supreme Beings has extended to your Kingdom. Know that even the stars will tremble at their passage and the mighty armada of the Warmaster will bring annihilation and destruction to your fabled kingdoms. Your lands will be fire and your waters will be smoked, the very life blood of the earth will pour from its breast as your legacy will be wiped from this world. Like a strong wind that shifts and changes the land, the Supreme Beings will erase your existence with fire and brimstone from the heavens. Know these things, for they would come to pass."

Nigun smiled as he helped his friend stand up, he clapped the Confessor's shoulder and said elatedly, "Welcome my brother, you no longer are a simple priest and High Confessor of this failing Theocracy. You are now an Apostle, a Word Bearer of the faith of the Supreme Beings as they finally take this world into the fold. Your words will be the scourge that would take the masses into a religious fervor worthy of the victories of teh Supreme Beings."

"I am afraid," Erythro's cheeks were flushed as he was led away outside into the gardens, they passed others who also took part in the ceremony and are now resting, "Afraid that we might have stumbled upon beings that are truly Gods."

"It is indeed as you say," Nigun led the way forward as the other heretics headed outside of the room, "These beings of absolute power can only be Gods that move and use us as tools to their whims. Fear not though, we serve a power more powerful than the 6 Gods can ever hope to be."

"Such blasphemous words and heresy are dancing in your mouth."

Nigun scoffed at him, "Your words fall flat, do you still deny the feeling of power that suffused your being awhile ago? Do you still not feel it right now as it coursed through your veins? This day marks your breaking of vows with the Theocracy, and if I should blaspheme then it is against the Supreme Beings who have touched me with their mercy, but I would die first before I would denounce them so."

"I wish to deny it or at least, dismiss it from my thoughts," the young Confessor flexed his open palm and sighed, "But the changes are obvious, my weakness was divination. Yet now I feel divine magic coursing through me, it allows me to see things now and that makes me afraid. For I have been given a gift just like that," he snapped his fingers at that thought, "It is dangerous and fearsome indeed."

"Our Lords are fearsome, surely their lowly servants should be fearsome as well. Do not fret," his friend consoled him as they reached the veranda as Erythro sat himself down, "I was the same as you back then, my weakness has always been my physical prowess. I was already capable of casting higher tiered magic, but my physical had been dismissed. Now, I have both and it is up to me now to enrich the two skills that I have been given as a blessing. My frailties of being human have been washed away, I am not perfect, though I seek to improve myself now and be better in my service."

"I feel fear. Fear for the future."

"To feel fear for the Supreme Beings is redundant, to serve them is the only true answer."

Erythro sighed at that, "Of course, I shall be a good servant for the masters."

Nigun gave a slight nod as Entoma finally backed away from the corner of the room, the Confessor was not able to detect her. But she was lying in wait, just in case, he would renounce his change and declare heresy for the Supreme Beings. Luckily they were able to convince him and as such a new comrade joins them, the diminutive maid stepped inside the house's corridor as he took out a person severed arm. She puts the end of the hand on her chin as her underlying mouth made a soft , squishy and chewing sound as the arm grew noticeably shorter and shorter. Nigun and Erythro's breathe evened out as the exhaustion of the ceremony finally caught up to them as they dismissed the danger that the bug maid posed for them a while ago.

"Mmm, muscular- my favorite," she said softly as she headed for her room, she would need to report this progress at the Great Tomb.

.

.

To be continued... Omake Theater: World Item!?

.

"Holy Mother of God... what the fuck are they doing!?"

Sammael rubbed his temples as the video recording of what Nigun was doing to propagate the power of Ainz Ooal Gown and to recruit people to his heretical cause was shown in front of them in HD. Ainz also looked back passively as they saw him parading himself around his cellar while doing the ceremonial dagger cut to his wrist. What disturbed him was the power that he bestowed Nigun is now blessing other people, not only that, the experiment he had risked with this human Captain is proving to be beneficial, but quite troublesome to watch.

He actually cringed as they saw the congregation crawl down on their knees and drink from the silver bowl.

They also took note that they writhed in pain after drinking from the bowl and promptly passed out, but after taking a few minutes to recover they seemed to be emanating different auras that they could feel and see it. Additionally, those people that did not have any potential to use magic, suddenly have dancing auras around them, like their constitution has changed just from ingesting his blood. Hopefully, nothing bad would come out of it, they didn't want to deal with no Resident Evil and shit right here anyway.

"Well, I suppose I should be horrified by what I saw, but I guess this shows results of your experiment."

"Indeed Ainz-kun," the Fallen sighed and again rubbed his temples, "I did not expect him to make a cult out of me though. This might destabilize the Theocracy faster, but this is something that I cannot predict what will happen next, if he is not careful then our fears that these Cardinals might run and hide with the World Items could come into fruition."

Sammael shook his head in disbelief as Ainz looked at him, "You know my friend, I once had some experience with religious zealots, they were the most motivated, most active, and most fearless enemies that you could face."

"You fought religious zealots before?"

"I did mention I was sent to Somalia, it was a cover for our attack on the Arabian Peninsula."

"You mean the famed 'Battle of the Black Coast' and the failed seizing of the Suez Canal by the Golden Asian Sphere?"

"That's the one," Sammael shook his head and took a drink of ale, "I suppose I should sort them out, this might lead to more misunderstanding later."

"Why don't you see what his plans are for now? Make it clear of your views? We owe it to them at least."

"You are right," the Fallen sighed again and stood up, "I have already established contacts in high places at the Empire and I am planning to seek out the Elven Kingdom or at least remnants of it."

"Is it for the sake of the guild? Or the twins?"

"W-w well, mainly for the guild, but also for the twins I suppose."

'You buggering liar,' The Lich sighed as well, "Do as you fit my friend, I do trust you in every move you make. By the way, I have secured a pharmacist and made him move his operations to Carne Village in order to have more room for experimentation. Additionally, I do hope he and Enri Emmott would get together and have a family, the girl is indebted to me and would not leave the village. As long as we have her, then we have him."

"What about the Warrior-Captain?"

"Gazef you mean?" Ainz rubbed his bony chin in thought, "While I do love to have him as part of our little collection, I have not found any way yet to have him indebted to us. Though, I have found a way to integrate another race to our collective, the Lizardmen has caught up my attention and I would delegate Cocytus to handle that affair."

"It seems you are sending more of the Guardians out into the open? If we are hard-pressed we may need to wake up more of my soldiers, though I loath to awaken the other 4."

"Why are you so hesitant to wake the other 4 anyway?"

Sammael slumped in his chair and puts his elbows on the table, "Let me tell you why, during our time in Yggdrasil, I have made the Angels as a part of me when I fight one on one. In the old world, I can only summon 2 at a time and 5 if I have full vestments and using my full Empyrean Commander skills. Though most of them can use only tier 9 spells, the first 2 can use tier 10 spells without assistance. Ramiel and Zeruel were my top Angels, none can best the other in a struggle for supremacy. Though they are designed as such, all the Angels can channel 10th tier spells as long as I invoke my Empyrean Commander skill and used a spell to allow them to do so."

"However, all four of them were recklessly made, most especially Zeruel. Additionally, I never wanted to mention this, but apart from me, Touch Me and Takemikazuchi, none was even able to best Zeruel in a duel."

Ainz took a scroll and unfurled it, "Umu, basically, you made a glass cannon character?"

"No, no, not that kind of character at all, a heavily armed tanker and killer. I am just not sure of their personalities since I did not pay much attention to it, in truth I would not mind if you wake the other 2, but not Zeruel."

"Are you suggesting he is more powerful than Albedo and her sisters?"

"3 vs 1? Hmm, it would be along battle for the win. But, a battle of one on one, he'd floor all 3 sisters to the ground."

The Lich took a sip from his tea and sighed, "Stronger than Rubedo huh? Most unfortunate then."

"Indeed-"

A loud knock on the heavy doors got their attention as Ainz gave his nod and Sammael called out, "Come in."

At once the double door swung fully open and it revealed the armored figure of Ramiel, he walked inside with his head held high and bowed slowly to the Supreme Beings.

"My Lords, I have no wish to disturb you, but this is a matter of utmost importance."

"Raise your head and speak."

"Yes, thank you Master Ainz," Ramiel raised his head and said, "My Lords, we have found a World Item."

"Excellent, what kind?"

"A multiple use item, not one of the 20 for sure."

"Location?"

"The Archmagos of the Navigators say that a group of humans is near the western borders of the Fortress City E-Rantel and the Theocracy, it is currently travelling with a full party of people. It is not clear how many are currently hidden, but scrying by our Magos and Techpriests suggest that the members of the party exceeds the power of the 6 Battle Maids."

Sammael suddenly stood up and began to head outside, Ainz also stood up and quickly followed him with Ramiel bringing up the rear. They weaved their way through the maze of passageways as they finally reached the bridge of the Sky Barge. All around numerous Magos and Archmagos stood up and bowed in their direction before sitting back down to their stations and resuming work.

"Archmagos of the Navigators, I require to know what you have gazed upon."

A maroon-robed magos with a single eyes in his forehead stepped forth and bowed, "Oh exalted being, we found traces of this World Item weeks ago, but have only pinpointed the location due to a disturbance nearby. Reports and scans show Lady Shalltear is engaging a small den of thieves near the area approximately 2 miles to the south. It is clearly shown she has slaughtered much of the denizens and the disturbance has caught the attention of a person that belongs in the group we have mentioned. Likely, they are preparing the World Item for use, as defense or offense against Lady Shalltear we do not know."

Sammael turned to Ainz as he watched his friend sit on the Crimson Throne, a menagerie of weapons he had taken from his defeated enemies and fashioned a chair out of it. Their eyes met as the Lich nods once, the Fallen stood up straighter, he looked forward and said clearly.

"Battle stations."

Red light exploded everywhere as loud gears seemed to turn all around the ship, from inside the large cathedral the floor moved and began to rise up until the large circular glass window where it depicted a 15th century stained glass work of art suddenly turned translucent and they could suddenly see the whole upper deck of the 'Stellarum Nex' change from the scenery of the Garden of Versailles into a venerable battleship with 2 triple mounted 46 inch guns. The other smaller autocannons that were located mid-ship shifted to the sides as the green and lush trees were retracted below deck. Trapdoors opened below and the lush garden was swallowed beneath as cannons began setting up on the now vacated deck.

"High Explosive 1,400 kg shells loaded on all forward guns Warmaster, tracers loaded on the 5 shot for the 40mm auto-cannons."

"Acknowledged, alert all my Generals, I will be moving forth. With your permission of course Guild Master."

The Overlord bowed sagely, "You may do so my friend."

"Attention all combat personnel of the 'Stellarum Nex', we would be engaging an enemy with a World Item. I will be moving forth, I expect each and everyone to perform up to par with whoever is in command."

Sammael let his words sink in as he loudly declared, "General Ramiel has the helm, Guildmaster Ainz Ooal Gown will oversee."

A red-robed Magos broadcasted through the ship, "General Ramiel has the helm."

As he stepped back from the bridge he heard a link reach his mind, 'Yes Momonga-san?'

'Be careful my friend, don't want you getting hurt or something.'

'Understood, I'm off then Momonga, pray they do not have any kind of Mind-Control World Item or something.'

As the Supreme Being teleported away, Ainz raised his left hand as he made a regal gesture. "Our Wasmaster goes forth to battle, support him with all your might!"

.

.

Author's Note:

.

I forgot to acknowledge Pervy Sage Chuck for the idea about Nigun and one of our most twisted maid Entoma. I'm pretty sure he's churning much more racy scenes in his mind.

MOAR REVIEWS! MOAR UPDATES!

.

September 23, 2020

Updated and uploaded. Thank you for re-reading my fic :D

Cheers,

Scarabeye3000