Disclaimer: Seriously, I would have owned Overlord if I'm a gazilllionaire, sadly I am not. So, tough then.
Title: Heaven or Hell
Chapter 13 - Kingdom's Blight
.
.
E-Rantel
.
Ainz stood in front of the open window overlooking a large expanse of the fortress city. The former fortress in the middle of the city that housed the mansion of the ruling noble has now been converted into his own palace, its connecting tower where he is currently located at has been re-purposed by Sammael's forces. They installed a ' magical radio', in their own words, to quickly send message from one place to another. By doing so, it stops any skillful mage from scrying their 'Message' spells, a problem that was informed of them by one of the Fallen's contacts in the Baharuth Empire. Regrettably, Sebas's own contacts at the Re-Estize Kingdom's Mage Guild also reported that some particularly good sorcerers can actually sense those kinds of magic, including the 'thought' of the message itself.
The Overlord sighed as a shadow passed in front of the window, that shadow was the receiving beacon of the Astronomican. A powerful radio device that was powered by magic, a device that combines the 'Message' spell, 'Confusion', 'Blind' and 'Stupor' spell all in the same casting. Once the message is received to another vox receiver, the spell is then purged of all the negative buffs and only the 'message' is received and heard. It was an innovation that could speed their progress in communicating large distances without using the 'Message' spell. After fortifying the whole city, he ordered all of his Legionnaires to leave the Death Knights as city guards with Elder Liches and Magos serving as commanding officers, bureaucrats, and the line government workers.
Ainz looked down in contemplation as his mind wandered back to their current hold on this world.
Capturing the head of the Slane Theocracy's Sunlight Scripture really was a boon for them. The information provided by that fellow was crucial in their decisions within this world. If it was up to him then he would just delegate the interrogation to someone who knows, but the denizens of Nazarick are made of sterner stuff and they might accidentally kill their prisoner. Indeed, it was wise to have that human survive, not only did they get that they are basically untouchables in this world, but they are more akin to Gods. People actually worship them, and at some point other players were actually worshipped just like the 6 Great Gods. They expanded their power base quicker with the combined guile and military might with a speed unknown to this world, and no hidden enemy to actually challenge them or impede their progress.
Hidden enemy huh?
Ainz sighed once more as the relay beacon of the Astronomican finished its perpetual revolution of the tower, its shadow covering his view of the city once more. Spies on the city have told them that their citizens are somewhat happy with the outcome. Humans are surprisingly adaptable to the situation they are in, especially if the said situation is conducive to their survival. As such, the citizens of E-Rantel, nay the Sorcerer Kingdom has brighter prospects than the average New World citizen. Though since occupying the city there have been an influx of nobles vacating their homes and heading to the capital; for one thing that the new rulers of the city understand is that talent and hard work comes first before those being born of High Blood. With this policy the incompetency of the old kingdom has been washed away and a new era of skilled and educated elite has begun to sprung. Though there are some nobles remaining, like the merchants and its guild that have continued to stay in this city. They are exempted taxes for trading goods, but it was still precarious since being closed off from the outside then they would have no one to trade with. Luckily, they have a prospective avenue within the Baharuth Empire.
Sammael huh?
Once more his thoughts returned to his friend and their quick subjugation of E-Rantel. Like lightning they descend into this city and sweep all opposition in less than a week. Within a month they have a bureaucracy that's working almost like a well-oiled machine. Though with the help of Albedo, Demiurge and Azrael, but the actions of his Fallen friend are questionable at times. The callousness upon which he ordered the test of loyalty from Demiurge, the brutality which he dispatched of the Black Scripture, E-Rantel's quick occupation, and the numerous human experimentation that shocked him at first, but then he should not have been surprised considering it was Alain's creation who pursued that project after all. According to Demiurge's proposal, they would acquire humans of varied birth; from noble to peasant, old and young, people with magic or with skill and then use their skin as the writing surfaces of scrolls. Ainz felt strange that he didn't even feel shocked at that as he remembered when Azrael clarified that information to him. He honestly thought those 'Abelion Sheeps' were chimera-like sheep's not actual humans flayed alive then healed magically until the harvesting of their skins begins anew. That angel was a god-send, like a very thorough secretary/teacher he would explain each and every paper before he would sign it, time-consuming yes, but very thorough indeed.
Though he did mention this issue with Sammael, he simply dismissed it and said, 'I will look into it, but isn't it nice they are thinking for themselves?'
Whatever happens though, he will need to trust in his friend's judgement. After all, a good commander like him that defended his nation in the Old World would surely have nothing but the best interest of his country in mind.
The revolving shadow of the Astronomican's receiving array covered the window he was standing in front of again. As it passed, Ainz turned to the whole city and sighed, "Well back to work" he said silently and promptly vanished in a shimmering pillar of color.
He materialized in front of his new desk procured by his servants that apparently belonged to the former Magistrate of E-Rantel. Standing in ready beside him was Albedo, based on his own and Sammael's input, she was selected as the Prime Minister and Prime Ambassador for the Sorcerer Kingdom. Demiurge was made Minister of the Interior, while Azrael was made liaison to the Armed Forces. Much has been changed, and much are still changing, one part of the New World's life that needs to change is the somewhat new harmonious living imposed by the Supreme Beings. Being ruled by heteromorphic creatures, especially the undead is one thing, but if you take an Undead Overlord and proclaim itself King over the living, then some arrangements and changes must be made. First and foremost is that violence has been prohibited against anyone, even against the servants of the Supreme Beings. Humans, demi-humans, elves, and other such races are prohibited from even raising their own arms against each other, additionally, there are rules implemented to ensure the quick identification of each and every citizen of the Sorcerer Kingdom.
They were given tags made of a specific metal to identify their name and their clan, each and every citizen that obtained one hung these like talisman on their necks. This serves as a quick way to determine if the said creature is a citizen of the Sorcerer Kingdom or not, to sell such an identification is a crime and to possess one that is not yours, especially when said tag is obtained due to crime is punishable by death. Additionally, these tags are engraved and quite different from what the Adventurer's guild issues. Another change made by Sorcerer Kingdom is the use of undead and automatons for agriculture, construction, lumbering, and industry. A concept that is quite unfamiliar with the New World, but quite welcome to the very few noble that have kept an open mind and remained in the Capital, this industrialization increases output for specific goods that would only be possible by the tireless undead and automatons working in the mines and the fields. Taking actual time to read the reports sent by Demiurge and Albedo, he concluded that:
1. The Sorcerer Kingdom has acquired 1 iron ore mine and 1 coal mine located near E-Rantel.
2. The Sorcerer Kingdom has acquired 1 natural salt mine located near the Lizardmen Swamps.
3. Farming fields abandoned by the fleeing nobles has now been transferred to the Kingdom's direct control is approximately more than a thousand hectares. THOUSAND hectares at least.
Ainz took a moment to do his math, if 1 Hectare is equal to 10,000 sq meter, then 1,000 hectares is-
'Ohhh, dear god- my head is spinning.'
To be able to control such a large amount of land, he shook his head and assumed his 'thinking pose'. His right index finger on his right temple and his chin slightly resting on his thumb, his elbow sitting atop the edge of his desk and body reclining to the side. He practiced this pose in front of his mirror, which earned a few laughs from Sammael as he showed it to him one time. The only one with him right now is Albedo and another homunculus maid, they both looked at him with gushing admiration on their eyes as he gave off an aura of a great leader that is deep in thought. He returned to his seating position after a minute and continued reading the reports.
4. Trade is closed with the Re-Estize Kingdom, Sebas and Solution has been dispatched to assess business viability and direct contact with possible black market networks. Azrael and Narberal Gamma continues to do adventuring within the Re-Estize Kingdom as the situation with the Sorcerer Kingdom and Baharuth Empire remains high.
5. Nigun Grid Luin has established further contact and requested additional stealth units, Lord Sammael consented and sent 10 operatives from the Black Hands. Agent Callidus-chan is on standby as per order of the Warmaster.
He had read the reports regarding the recent exploits of the Black Hands with Callidus-chan aka Clementine. It seemed his friend did the right decision in changing her to their side, but he could have done away with a better name. 'I mean... Callidus-chan?'
6. Nfirea has successfully sent the ingredients list to the Great Tomb and our own synthesizers are beginning to replicate his results. With the ingredients readily available in this New World, then they could definitely replicate one of the Sorcerer Kingdom's greatest asset.
7. The lead on the Dwarven Kingdom is substantial, Frost Giants were encountered by the Azerlisia Mountain expedition team. Team escaped, equipment lost, Magi's mind processor has been slightly damaged, but has been easily repaired and fully functioning once more.
8. Lord Sammael reports that the Baharuth Empire's contact is solid, they began reaching out to the Kingdom about what happened to E-Rantel. Possible temporary alliance against the Sorcerer Kingdom is looming, situation is developing, will advise if further action is needed.
The Overlord sighed, report number 8 definitely came from Sammael. It was short, concise, informative and suggestive, it was like reading a military report. His friend do tend to do some things over the top and- wait a minute!
[Message]
"Yes Momon-kun?"
"Ah, Sammael-kun, I hope I have not caught you in a bad time."
"Not really, I am currently at Arwintar to deal with one of our contacts here. Hopefully, he can give me suggestions on what can be done to secure vassalage with the Empire."
"Vassalage? You are asking for suggestions? I see you take your advice to heart."
"Indeed I do, remember what I told you? Always ask for suggestions on your subordinates, those that offer their thoughts you can always tweak or make small changes. They would be glad to have your input and would have their hearts pleased by having them help you."
"You always think of these things Sammael-kun... you really should have been the Guild Master."
"Bah! Don't fob that responsibility to me- whoever leads carry all of us in your shoulders. If I or anyone of us who are your subordinates should make mistakes then who would carry the guilt?"
"Aha! So you do not want to be burdened by guilt?"
He could almost see Sammael in dogeza in front of him, "I thank you for your sacrifice."
"Very funny, anyways, correct me if I am wrong, but am I right to assume you will incite the Baharuth Empire to ally with the Re-Estize Kingdom to dislodge the Sorcerer Kingdom at E-Rantel."
"You are correct!"
"But why?"
"Simple. No one can practically defeat us in a contest of strength, from what information Nigun has provided us and the revived members of the Black Scriptures that we are currently keeping. No human, demi-human, dwarven, nor elven army can stand against us for now. So, as long as we have time, then we must surround ourselves with defenses that would act as shields or buffers against any substantial enemies that might come."
"By allowing the Kingdom and Empire to ally against us, we would crush their armies and give us 'just cause' to attack and annex their own lands for us. Just like what Germany did against Poland, they invaded due to 'just cause they attacked by their own soldiers', that was 1940 I think."
Ainz sighed, "A long lifetime ago huh?"
"Indeed, anyways, we can always refer to history on tactics we can do to justify our movements."
"But what about the people? Will they love us? Will they accept us?"
"As I told you before, humans are very adaptive creatures. Incite the masses and they will love you, plus all these people will have died in a hundred years or so, remember that the victors always write history as they want it to be."
"So? Are we the victors already?"
Sammael laughed darkly, "We will be. Even if we burn the whole world into ashes, we will be victorious. Now Ainz-kun, I will have to postpone our chat, my contact has just arrived and I will be meeting him now. I will see you tonight regarding the points of our meeting."
With that the [Message] spell has been cut, Ainz sat up straight in his chair and assumed his 'thinking pose'. The words of his friend continue to ring in his mind, 'world into ashes', 'we will be victorious', 'We WILL be'.
"A victory in a burned world..." the Overlord took a paper report and began his reading for the day, "... would be nothing but a Pyrrhic one."
.
.
Azerlisia Mountains
.
Magos Vestigo M4314 turned his Philips screwdriver clockwise as he tightened the bolts on their damaged equipment, the ambush they have suffered from the Frost Giants was one thing, but now they were pinned down by giant wolverine-like creatures that walk on bipeds or on two legs. They were ferocious and their small number of explorers and legionnaires were not enough to combat thousands upon thousands that seemed to hunt them down. His men collapsed the passage that they passed through and lined the stone walls with ferrocrete, a mixture of ground stone and grounded iron ore. It was sturdier than cement and stone for the properties of the iron bonds perfectly with the stone and the razor claws of the creature's would not be able to penetrate it. With a large sigh, he replaced the panel on the damaged equipment and gathered his remaining legionnaires with him.
"Write down this message, if I should fall again, at least one of us must survive to bring the Warmaster here," each and everyone of the surviving members of the expeditionary force took out a paper and their writing implements.
"Begin Log: Day 24 of the Azerlisia Mountain Exploration"
"Found evidence of Dwarven Dwellings, encountered unknown bipedal creatures.
"Creatures found to be semi-intelligent, speech capable, brutish disposition.
"Creatures currently occupy the Dwarven City, initial recon indicates also Dragon in residence. Possible 2nd Dwarven city might be existing, recommendation: additional units for recon."
"Expeditionary Force encountered Frost Giants at rendezvous point Charlie-2, anti-armor weapons lost.
"Creatures identified as Quagoa alerted to our presence, initial guards squad overwhelmed with numbers.
"Request immediate assistance and extraction. If possible, retrieval operation of remains is requested.
"End of Log
After jotting down the copy of the message, 2 of the Legionnaires still considered 'fresh' by the Magos carried the Vox machine and began walking the trek back to an unexplored cavern they retreated into. By using radar imaging they deduced that these caverns could lead to unknown passages that would give them the signal they need to reach the Astronomican in E-Rantel, as long as their message gets through then that is all that matters. Magos Vestigo M4314 stood up and puts his left arm around another Legionnaires, two other legionnaires have succumbed to their wounds and was laid to rest on a side cavern. Hopefully, their bodies would remain undisturbed and they could still retrieve them later for reactivation. Their eyes adjusted to the darkness as they slowly, but surely made their way across the darkened cavern, desperate to give the information that the Supreme Beings have tasked them to obtain.
They trekked tirelessly, their stronger constitution and sturdier bodies made them superior to normal human soldiers. According to their lore, the Legionnaires were created as obedient, superior soldiers to the line human infantry. Fearless and ingenious to a fault, if commanded by Senior Magos, then their deadliness is increased tenfold.
It seemed like days, maybe hours or more, but finally light could be seen ahead of them.
"Magos, this is EL 25, will proceed first for viable reconnaissance."
"Affirmative, carry the extra beacon and set it in a hidden section."
"Roger that sir."
The Legionnaire nodded its hooded head and went ahead with 2 more soldiers. They carried a tripod with a radio dish on it as they finally reached the open area ahead. Razor-like cold winds battered them sideways as a snow storm was upon the mountain side. Scanning the surrounding area, the legionnaires set the tripod on the flattest surface they could find and activated the beacon. He then turned to one of his men and pointed to another cliff side.
"Make your way to higher ground and establish Over Watch."
"Affirmative."
The 2 soldiers shouldered their weapons as EL25, continued setting up the vox beacon, the cold was biting through his toughened skin, but he paid it no mind. He finished setting up the beacon and clicked on his vox radio, "Magos, we are all set-up here. Over Watch also established on higher ground."
"Send coordinates to the Astronomican, the Supreme Beings needs these information. After you do so, set-up in standby mode and await reinforcements. We shall also find our own niches and activate our beacons, good luck out there."
"Affirmative, EL25 out."
Expeditionary Legionnaire 25 clicked open his pouch and retrieved the data slate he had written their message upon a few hours ago. He dialed out the coordinates of the Astronomican and quickly sent out the signal as a [Message] spell, hoping and praying to the Supreme Beings that they will receive it. He then shimmied himself in a small niche or a crack in the stones as if to minimize his signature and began to put his body into hibernation mode. The Magos ordered them to conserve their energies and preserved what is left of the integrity on their bodies that this cold had already taken away. His last vision was the constant blinking light on his ammunition belt and the last thing he heard was the howling wind as they all waited for help from their Warmaster.
.
.
Astronomican Room
.
Far away on the walled city of E-Rantel, the Astronomican locked on the incoming [Message] spell. In a blink of an eye it purged all of the security spells that was sent with it and quickly pinpointed the sender. The revolving receiver stopped its motion as it received the rest of the message. The spell moved through the highly magic fiber that was used to link the Astronomican to the Astrophatic Choir, a group of a hundred specially modified mid-level magos that allows them to pour their enormous magical potential outward and also inwards. It was received by a particularly newly modified New Worlder and he stood up while 2 Senior Vox Magos approached him from both sides.
"Log of Azerlisia Expeditionary Force"
"Extracting Data: Priority Level 1"
"Expeditionary Force compromised, equipment compromised, objectives has been met."
"Dwarven City confirmed, no citizens found. Further investigation is warranted."
"Magos ordered Force to 'Hibernation Mode', ETS 25 Days before body deterioration."
"Forwarding data to Stellarum Nex and to the Great Tomb."
"End of Log"
The 2 senior Magos took out two scrolls, quickly wrote down what they have heard and went separate ways. The 1st one headed to a different briskly down to the door landing. Flanked by 2 Legionnaires, the party made their way to the office spaces on the connected building, which is the E-Rantel Fortress and walked past large hulking Death Knights. The Magos paid them no mind as the Legionnaires walked a step behind him, they finally came upon a door and he rapped lightly on the door.
A few moments later the door cracked open and a woman of absolute beauty and grace stepped out. Her face seemed unreal as the vision seemed like an Angel had come to Earth and given form, but her horns and black wings say otherwise.
Albedo looked at her fellow servant and asked, "Yes?"
The Magos bowed in response and said, "Lady Albedo, I am a Magos in charge of the Vox communication, this intelligence came directly from the Azerlisia Mountain Expeditionary Force. This is a priority message marked by both the Warmaster and the Undying Lord. He must see this at once for it is related to one of his projects."
"I see, very well then wait here and I will announce you myself," Albedo turned and walked quickly inside.
From outside he could hear the succubuss' voice, "Ainz-sama, a priority message has been received by the Astronomican. Shall I send them in?"
"Yes."
The 2 Legionnaires opened the double doors, but did not follow inside. The Magos walked inside confidently under the watchful gaze of the 8-Edged Assassins on the ceiling. He walked quickly and stopped a few paces in front of their Lord's table. Dropping to one knee and bowing his head, he took out the rolled scroll and held it above his bowed head.
"Albedo, please."
"Of course Ainz-sama," she took the offered scroll and passed it respectfully towards the Overlord.
The servant of Sammael dare not move from where he knelt, but he could hear the humming of their Lord as he read the report he made. Being in the presence of one of their Lords was truly exciting and worthy of remembrance until-
"Magos."
He looked up and puts a hand on his chest, "My Lord?"
"Tell Sammael-kun, that I would be delighted if he could sent a relief force and check if any Dwarves are still on their city. It is imperative that we make sure that this 'solid lead' on Runecraft is explored, and I believe this is the foothold we need for such instruments to be expounded upon."
He bowed again and committed the words to memory, "As you command my Lord."
"You may go."
Standing while bowed, he lowered his head for a final time and turned around. Opening the double doors he was quickly joined by his 2 Legionnaires as they marched back to the Room of the Astrophatic Choir leaving the denizens of Nazarick on their section of the citadel.
.
.
Slane Theocracy - Nigun's Mansion
.
Nigun smoothed his robes consciously as the alarm of the approaching carriage reached his ears. It seemed only recently of his discussion with the esteemed Cardinal, yet now he stood giddy at the prospect of having this high-ranking member to their side. If this pushes through then he would have a contact within the highest circle of the Theocracy however, if the Cardinal would not join their side then they would have to go with Plan B. Though his Lord have indubitably prepared contingencies in case that happens, the words of the Guardian that visited rang clear in his mind.
'It is not folly to ask for help on doing the bidding of the Supreme Beings, but do not call upon them lightly for they do not take lightly to failure.'
No, failure is not an option now, if worst comes to worst then the peculiar maid the Masters sent him would need to help him subdue this human. For no amount of human guard could stop him and the power of the maid combined-
"ArE yoU thINkiINg aBoUt mY ofFEr to EAT the oLD CrOnE?"
He sighed at that aggravating voice, "That old crone is our ticket in getting inside the highest circle of the Theocracy... and please change your voice, he's coming and he might not take kindly after hearing your 'unique' voice."
"Since you asked nicely I will do as you wish," the maid simpered, "Shall I greet them then?"
"No, I will greet them. Please prepare refreshments though," the maid walked out as Nigun suddenly called back to her, "Please do keep in mind these are humans and they appreciate not finding any bug legs on their drinks."
"YES! Yes, I'll keep it in mind you heretic."
"Nor do they appreciate bug body parts or anything unnatural on their food!"
"Tsk! You worry too much!"
"I only worry when its you!"
"Well, its funny how they react!"
"Keep your funnies when the clerics decided to visit us again."
"Ooh, your talking about your best of friends? The Apostle?"
"Yes. Now go on please, please, they're about to arrive."
Nigun sighed tiredly, he had been more polite recently since he found out that it was not easy living with the inhuman maid. At least that was what she looked like at him, her unnatural strength, magic, and dangerous facade all contribute to his gut feeling. But what confirmed this is that when he tried to use his gifts and looked at her true nature, he had to walk out of the room to stop himself from shuddering at the image of the diminutive maid in his mind. Like a great matriarchal arachnid, it looked like a cross of a praying mantis and a spider that it shocked him to no end. Though she easily puts things into easy understood perspective, like what defines an enemy and an ally, it is her hidden strength that gives him pause. They are eternally and faultlessly loyal yet this diminutive servant is frighteningly powerful. It was as if they function as a hive mind with one thing in focus.
How can we serve the Supreme Beings? What is useful and what is not in the Supreme Beings, those Gods that gave him the absolute mercy of living, in their unfathomable machinations, what was his part as a lowly cog?
He walked affably towards the main doors and waited patiently under the roofed patio, from afar he could see the carriage of the Cardinal. Curiously, he carried no guards with him as evident by the single coachman reining in the horses. It seemed the old man did keep his word about visiting him, though he had never once imagined the one-time Captain of the Scripture to be quite as reckless as this. In any case, it seemed fortunate that he would willingly approach him after that 'sublime' meeting they had. The carriage finally arrived and stopped perfectly under the shade, the door opened from the inside and outstepped the Cardinal of Wind.
Dominic Ihre Partouche.
Nigun smiled and bowed at his visitor, "Welcome Cardinal, our halls and our family greet you."
"I am... glad to be here," the old man rolled his shoulders and looked at him as he alighted, "I believe I have not raided your cellar since your father passed away."
"Indeed your Eminence," he gestured towards the front door and smiled cordially, "I am quite pleased to let you know of my recent acquisition of a fine bottle of wine, please this way, my servants will take care of your coachman and your horses."
From behind a hidden nook two men stepped out and led the horses to the stables, being an aristocrat like Nigun, he was bound to be served by numerous people indebted to his family, like a fiefdom. The Cardinal walked unhurried as the former Captain began the necessary small talk in case someone is indeed eavesdropping. They talked about the weather, life, mundane things until the old man took the first step towards the cellar and he felt a palpable shift in the air.
"What was that?" the Cardinal asked cautiously.
Nigun smiled easily, "Fear not Cardinal Dominic for that was an anti-scrying field for both our protection. The only thing anyone could hear are a monotonous buzzing and if anyone dares to look would be blinded."
'The reports of the Thousand League Astrologer was that she was almost blinded by the counter-magic for her Farseer spell when she attempted to divine what happened to the Sunlight Scripture when they were lost in their raids, was this coincidence that they managed to erect such a field?' Dominic thought, "I applaud your caution Nigun."
"Indeed your Eminence, none can be too careful in the face of potential allies."
"Correct child."
They both made their way towards the deepest part of the cellar where large wine barrels sit side by side and a table was set aside for them. A couple of bottles were set for them as well as 2 wine glasses. They sat themselves on 2 cushioned chairs as the fallen Captain poured the wine.
"Well, I am not here simply because of your wine collection child," the Cardinal said clearly, "Nigun, I saw a document that belonged to the God of Fire himself that the Pontifex Maximus shared details with us recently, it referenced a symbol about an 8 pointed star representing a wrathful God. Would you happen to know anything about it?"
The former Captain smiled and sipped on his wine glass, "Your Eminence, permit me to tell you a short story about a certain someone, a foolish man that I once knew. Let me begin, there was once a proud person, he was a person of power, by his wealth, skill, power and faith he had trampled all of his enemies underfoot. He zealously upheld the teachings of his God and did his utmost to glorify their names, brave against all enemies, reliant on the blessings of the Gods."
"Until one day, said person encountered a being of unfathomable power and was soundly beaten. Mind, body, and soul, crushed mercilessly to oblivion. Hopeless and abandoned by his Gods, he fell into despair and desperation. Death gnawed at his heels as he fell to their grasp, the scar on his psyche was entrenched so deeply, a single thought of those beings descending on him would drive him into cold sweat and bitter tears."
"A future of torment and suffering awaited him, that is until these beings gazes back at the shattered human and decided to bestow mercy."
"They granted him their 'blessing'," a whimsical smile could be seen on his lips as he continued, "Wherever he was once weak, they made him strong, the frail human self was strengthened beyond what a human could do, his magic was enhanced, his mind tempered further. Their only demand is only loyalty until death, and so the man gave his all and accepted the blessings. He became faster, stronger, more powerful than any human or God-kin there is. A good match against the best that this world can offer, for they made sure that their servants would know no defeat. He became so strong he needed to be careful and be aware of his strength all the time, without any semblance of control then any object is easily pulverized. Most especially human flesh.
"His blessings also gave him magical immunity to feeble spells and would shield except from the most determined, but not all mind intrusions."
Nigun looked at the Cardinal eye to eye and said, "As long as he carries the Mark of his God, then he is Blessed above all."
Dominic's eye widened as he looked at the whole of Nigun's face, there hidden in plain sight and looking like a set of scars presumably from being tortured, was the 8 Pointed Star. Realization finally dawned on him why all the scrying magic and warding spells were not or simply didn't work against him. It was readily assumed and expected that it would not work against him since of his unwavering faith and loyalty to the Theocracy, but looking at him now, it didn't seem to be the case. There was a meaning behind his words and he could not dismiss its implied intent.
"Nigun," the Cardinal said slowly, "You're a heretic."
The fallen Captain gave a small smile and shrugged his shoulders, "My Exalted Lord said by following him I would be branded as such, if by serving him I will be, then let it be so."
"And your purpose of luring me here is to get inside the graces of the Pontifex Maximus?"
Nigun took a sip of his wine and said, "Why get inside his good graces, when you can be the Pontifex himself."
"Blasphemy- this is blasphemy."
"... spare me those words your Eminence," the fallen Captain scoffed, "I have not believed in the Theocracy since I was blessed, they have offered me nothing but damnation, rendered my soul to pieces with each and every genocide I commit in the name of a teaching too mysterious and too far from reality. I would rather serve one who I have felt its touch, its power palpable with every fiber of my being, its favor whom I have earned with my devotion."
"You are mad to think I would consider even aligning myself with you," the Cardinal took a sip of his wine and sat back down on his chair, it wasn't his final words, but it felt like he needed a more convincing reason to join them, "This is rebellion, treason against the Theocracy, what can you guarantee victory? What are you holding into?"
"I can guarantee your survival, whether I fail or succeed my Lords will descend upon the Theocracy without mercy. Either they are greeted as benevolent beings or bloody conquerors, it matters little to them, but if you would ask my preference then I would certainly pick them to be carried aloft as benevolent beings amidst the feverish cries of the impassioned masses."
Dominic kept silent, but the fallen Captain could see the gears in his mind working.
"This invitation is given to you now not because of their interest in you, but because my Lords does not wish unnecessary bloodshed, fear not Cardinal, we are not alone in this endeavor- Apostle Erythro would be more than happy to show you-"
"Erythro?" the Cardinal was shocked, he thought that he was just going to hear a bit of mad raving from the fallen Captain, but this is the gears of a budding rebellion, "Confessor Erythro of the exalted Cleric class? You have converted others to your cause so easily, and a Confessor nonetheless?"
"The methods were quite shocking to him and the truth was presented right before him in a very convincing manner."
Nigun stood up and looked down at him, "I must advice you Cardinal, what I am about to show you can only be done once. If you believe it or not is up to you, I assure you though in case you would not agree with us. There will be no hard feelings, but I would have to ask you to hold your tongue. Do I have your word?"
"What would happen if I would not give my word?" the Cardinal tested, "Would you make it painless?"
The fallen Captain called his bluff and produced a piece of granite stone, he gripped it in his open palm and slowly closed his left hand upon it. Hard stone crumbled and pulverized right before his eyes as the old man spoke no words nor gave any reaction to what he witnessed, "I can assure your Eminence, I can make it so fast it would be painless."
It wasn't hard to decided after that.
"Very well, convince me Nigun and show me what this fallen Confessor has seen."
"Not to fret Cardinal, Apostle Erythro would be here at once-" Nigun turned toward the darkness and said, "Did you hear that Entoma-san? We will need the Apostle of the Supreme Beings after all."
"I will request a [Gate] at once, standby," a disemboweled voice came from the darkness and suddenly 2 violet glowing orbs appeared from the gloom, "They have agreed, the Apostle is coming."
Dominic still looked unperturbed as a black void of roiling magic opened suddenly behind Nigun, the disemboweled voice finally appeared from the shadows and he could not believe whom it belonged to. It was a diminutive maid with a dress similar to one of the missing treasures, her hairstyle was quite similar to what that old hag, Kaire, used to have in her younger years. He suppressed a chuckle at her memory, indubitably he would have question about the encounter with the Black Scripture that he would need to clear before he can make his decision. It would be not easy to just align himself, he would be abandoning everything he knew, everything he held dear, every principle and ingrained lessons, values, and memories. No, he would open his mind and try to see if he can embrace such words, or if it would be too absurd that he would reject it outright.
Less he witness himself the power and promise of these Beings, then he would keep his decision to himself.
Finally, the mentioned Cleric, nay, Apostle appeared as he stepped out of the blackened [Gate] spell. He didn't looked different, nor was he mutilated in anyway, in fact, he looked quite healthy and the pale visage on his face is now gone. He used to be quite sickly before, that is why he was not sent to the field, but he was an excellent Confessor. So why was he in arms with the enemy?
"Greetings, your Eminence."
"I suppose my time of being surprised has ended," the Cardinal took a final sip of wine and sat straight on his chair, "Very well, convince me."
Erythro sat down beside the Cardinal and looked him in the eye, "Your Eminence, whatever you see will happen. You do know of the strands of fate that was accessible only to the Thousand League Astrologer? Well, lets just say my 'blessings' allows me tap into it and see snippets of what is about to come."
Dominic nods his head, "I understand, I will keep an open mind. I give you my word that I shall hold my tongue on whatever I will see, and no soul will know of your heresy."
"He has confessed, and I have heard his confession. There is no lie," Erythro bowed his head and closed his eyes, a remnant of his days as confessor. His spectral eyes could see if a person is lying or not, honorable or dishonorable, their intentions explode in front of him with their colored aura, "Cardinal Dominic, close your eyes and listen to my voice."
The Cardinal sat up straight, took one last look at the bowed fallen Confessor, then to the heretical Captain, and then finally closed his eyes.
.
"Open your eyes... Cardinal Dominic~"
.
Dominic Ihre Partouche opened his eyes and saw that he was now alone inside the cellar. Where did they go then? Did they lie? Is this an excuse to escape his clutches? Was this some kind of ploy to escape him?
"The nerve of those-" a scream could be heard outside as he quickly stood up and made his way up to the 1st floor. As he stepped on the threshold, he could feel a power thrumming in the air, like powerful magic being used near him. Make no mistake, he was a former fighting mage for the Sunlight Scripture and invented new techniques in attack and defending against magic. He could feel magic pouring all around him, he raced outside and felt his jaw drop open. Floating above him is the largest ship he had ever seen in his life, it had no wings, was made of iron, yet it floated like the Flying City of Eryuentiu. Sounds like thunder claps came from the ship as it spewed out dragon fire from above, he looked around and saw where the screams are coming from.
People, ragged and bloodied , ran around him trying to escape as their city seemed to burn in the blackened sky.
He saw rows upon rows of red-robed soldiers carrying a menagerie of weapons marching smartly, towards the burning city, they ignored the citizens as they carried no swords and they weren't even combatants. Such discipline in an army, it was quite something they were attacking this cit-
His blood ran cold and eyes widened, the city was familiar to him, it should be for it is the Capital City of the Slane Theocracy. It burned right before his eyes, a great fire that seemed to consume even where he stood. The thunder clap and the dragon fire from the floating ship was its projectile bombarding his city. The bastion of human superiority in this world was burning, great orbs of energy shot out from the ships and exploded inside the city walls. He was helpless, he could do nothing, he could not have stopped this, or could he-?
Heavy footfalls made him turn behind him and what he saw almost blinded his eyes, giants standing almost 9 feet tall, with wings in heavy gilded armor walked towards him. In their center stood their master, a massive Fallen Angel with inverted wings and a demon mask, they were speaking to each other, but he could not hear their words. Beside the Fallen Angel stood the epitome of death itself, it was 'Surshana the God of Death', yet it was different. He could not believe it, who were these? Is this a dream? But a dream does not feel like this!
"Had enough Cardinal?"
Dominic turned around so hard he felt his neck pop, there standing a few feet away from him was the Fallen Confessor.
"What is this? Is this true?"
The Confessor walked towards him and smiled bitterly, "This is the future, if you intend not to honor your previous vows. If you would directly go to the Pontifex Maximus with the words we have imparted you with, although this is also the future in case the Schism that Nigun is planning should fail. As with his previous words, the Supreme Beings care not if they are carried aloft as Gods, or cursed as Warlords."
Erythro now stood beside the Cardinal as they watched the 'Stellarum Nex' blow the city gates to oblivion..
"You can still save them," the Confessor turned Apostle looked again the old man in the eye and said, "Help me and Nigun, and we shall help you with whatever you desire. That way, we can evade this absolute terror hanging above our heads and you can rule over the Theocracy, subject only to the Supreme Beings."
The blackened sky and the burning city disappeared from him as they returned back to the underground cellar. Nigun sat across from him as Erythro finally released his hand from his. Silence remained as they looked at the Cardinal stood up and headed outside.
They were about to follow when he stopped and turned back to them.
"I am not agreeing to your plans, but I will need time to contemplate what must be done. Give me a day and you shall have my answer."
Both Nigun and Erythro lets him go as they looked at him walking away. As soon as he was out of the cellar, Entoma sat down on the vacated seat as the two humans took a glass of wine each.
"HE'Ll eXxPOsE yOu TWo~"
"Entoma, please, don't rain on my parade."
The diminutive maid gave a chittering laugh, "Failure is not tolerated by the Supreme Beings~"
"Ugh!" Nigun downed his drink in one go, "I know that, don't remind me. Shadow Demon?"
From the darkness two pair of evil eyes and fanged mouth appeared, "-yes Heretic?"
"As the Supreme Being commands, follow him, but please do not kill him yet. Send him a warning if he wavers, but please do not kill him outright."
The evil face vanished once more and a shadow crawled unnaturally fast where the Cardinal went, the three of them looked at each other as the two humans took their goblets of wine and sipped the sweet liquid inside.
"Nigun?"
"Yes, Erythro?"
The Apostle brought his fingers to his lips and extracted a bug leg.
"Is this a new additive for the wine?" the Heretic turned to where she sat but found her gone.
"ENTOMAAA!"
.
.
Arwintar - Capital of the Baharuth Empire
.
Sammael sat down on one of the large sofa inside his spacious office and took a sip of wine. Across him sat hunched over a piece of parchment was Fluder, he was copying a single page translated by the Warmaster of the divine book he held.
The Book of Light 1
He was surprised to know that the spell books he saved when trying to learn his Tier-1 to 3 spells seemed relevant now. He was pleased and surprised that there were actual lore on the pages of the books and not just blank pieces of paper all binded together. As such he had tasked the old wizard to translate the whole book by using his 1 translated page because they were all written in Japanese. Using the translated page as reference, he aims to make the old man learn the whole book by forcing him to learn Japanese. Once he learns the language, then it is only a simple matter of him reading the books he will provide.
"If I am reading this correctly My Lord, the way the Supreme Beings learn magic is different. You perceive things in a simpler manner and manage to condense such learning and give it object or solidity.
Sammael looked benevolent, but very confused deep inside, 'To tell you the truth I just clicked on that book that showed you a brief description on what it is and VOILA... well, whatever floats your boat Fluder.'
"Indeed, that is why it is difficult for humans to perceive quickly and why it is almost impossible for you to attain the 10th-Tier. But fret not, if you showed enough progress then I will show you my oldest books yet."
The madness in the old man's eyes returned in full as the thought of reaching the abyss of magic sooner captured his interest once more, "Oh! Oh! I will do everything Master- everything and so much more!"
"I am sure you will. In that end, I require something of you," Sammael sipped on his wine glass and savored the taste of the spirit, "Can you give me suggestions on how the Bloody Emperor can give me 'just cause' to invade or annex the Empire? Of course, I would like to get your input for I value your counsel as much as that man values yours."
"Oh! My Lord, such words from you- truly it is not a mistake to bend my knee and swore my undying fealty," Fluder stroked his long beard and paused from his works, "I do have some ideas in my mind."
The whole afternoon was taken by him and Fluder discussing ways on how to bend the Emperor into decisions that would affect the outcome of the Empire. Especially giving him the excuse to invade the Empire, which is very different from their reasoning in seizing E-Rantel. The basis of the occupation of the Fortress City was simple, with their presence known to the Theocracy and the Re-Estize Kingdom, they will need a very large target upon which to soak up all the aggression of their enemies. By establishing a Kingdom of their own, it diverts the attention away from the Great Tomb and its nearby village. Fortunately, Carne Village has been fortified with the Goblin Troops help and has become their center of New World experiments.
The pharmacy and laboratory of the Bareare was situated in there, it has ample space and large stocks of inventory. Goblins that have decided to live within the village contribute by scouring the Forest of Tob for medicinal plants, likewise, the Dark Elves that were uprooted by the Dark Treant continues to rebuild their old kingdom and have began trading with Carne Village. The other demi-humans, like the Lizardmen constantly trade fish, precious stones from the river estuaries they control and the occasional gold they get from the water. Thus, the only thing missing now are the Dwarves and their runic forge works. Which is why it is crucial that the Azerlisia Mountain Expedition turn out something substantial like a Dwarven City with actual Dwarves LIVING in it.
With evening coming in, Fluder graciously took his leave with the single translated page and the Book of Light 1 and Book of Light 2 tucked tightly under his arm. The business with Fluder took almost a day, thus he had only a few time left for this next part of the plan. Baramus or Baraqiel bowed as he led his last visitor for the day, he opened the door and in stepped Ried Karl Furt. He was looking down and rubbing his hands together in nervousness, he sat himself down and begged at once without being prodded on.
"Master Sammael, I have been burglarized. My home, my sacred home was desecrated-" he began with a chattering voice, the Fallen Angel kept his silence as Baramus stayed on the sides, "-the painting that which you have granted a loan with me was taken. I- I don't know how I can say this, but I cannot pay it."
Baramus produced a staff out of nowhere as Count Furt gulped loudly, it was well known how skilled and strong the servants of Sammael are.
"I gave you the priceless work of art and you gave me your word, is your word not as good as they say?" Sammael's eyes looked dangerous, he was toying with his Ring of Nullification, "Can you give me any suggestion on what you can do to... umm, compensate at least?"
"I do not-"
Baramus stood beside the Count which made him stop speaking, the loyal soldier looked to his Master for direction. And the hapless human grew paler even more.
"There must be something that I still have that you want," Count Furt looked like he was about to blow a gasket in confusion, "I have daughters, I have daughters! I can sell them to you!"
"The painting you have lost is worth at the very least 300 gold pieces, a slave is only worth 20 gold, if its a woman 25, if its a virgin 45, if its a virgin child 80 gold pieces for the right noble." , 'A right one would be a pedo-bear son of a bitch.'
"I- I have 3 daughters, I can sell you their rights. And one of them-!"
"I'm afraid that is not enough," Sammael stood up and walked over to the window, "Baramus, take our guest and escort him out. I wish to rest now and I shall deal with-"
"-one of my daughter's is a Magic Caster!"
"Hmm."
The Fallen raised his left hand as Baramus grabbed the shoulder of the shaking Count as he was about to manhandle him outside of the office. The soldier lets go as Count Furt knelt in front of the large table, he watched as Sammael turned back to him and sat back down at the table.
"Magic Caster you say?"
Hope is kindled in the eyes of the desperate man as the Count gasped at his good fortune, "Yes, yes! She was one of the promising students of the Tri-Arts Magic Caster Fluder Paradyne however, she quit from the Academy and became an adventurer instead. I will sell her and her twin sisters to you, do to them whatever you wish!"
"They are your children, yet you will sell them...?"
"-if I can live, I can buy them back!"
"Will it be legal?"
"Yes, it will be. I have contacts in the slave trade, I will put them for sale and provide you with their contract papers. Arche! She can earn you as much gold as she can by adventuring, but please spare me!"
Sammael extended his right hand, "Give me your daughters, I will take custody of them. The 3 of them are not enough so you must work for me. I would appreciate any information you can give me about your noble friends, surely not only you have the only child with magic potential among the nobles?"
"Count Furt," the Fallen stood up and headed for the nearby cupboard, he took out another bottle of wine and an extra glass. He poured another one and said, "I will PAY you for any information you can give me about the nobles, anything that is worth knowing. I will take your daughters as payment for the painting, but I will pay you for the information you will give. I just need your word that not a single soul will know of your tattling activities. Do I have your word?"
Count Furt did not even consider the repercussions of his actions as he took the Fallen's Hand and shook it hard.
"I give you my word."
A few minutes later and with his pockets laden with gold, he stepped outside of the office and was escorted out of the premises. Baraqiel and Zadkiel knelt in front of the Supreme Being's table, he nods his head and both disguised Angels sat on the plush chairs.
"Any word on the black market where the painting is now?"
Baraqiel nods and said, "According to Leliel's spy, they followed the brigands that looted the painting towards the Re-Estize Kingdom. The black market is afire with the news of the high quality items we are turning out, but the enmity between the Baharuth Empire and Re-Estize Kingdom dampens the flow of goods, stricter security protocols, somewhat higher tariffs, additional taxation on the merchants, and prohibited merchandises just to name a few. As such, the black market and free merchants are the only avenues that we can use to spread our products."
"At least we have an avenue to wriggle ourselves in, any word on the Elven Kingdom?"
Zadkiel nods next and gave his report, "The 3 Princes have consolidated power and have begun rebuilding, they report that their walls have been finished and have secured at least the city from any monsters that might come calling. They have not stabilized their food production yet as they have recently relocated, but the forest has not been stingy to them. Additionally, with more living spaces and their proximity to the forest, they are most grateful and could not express their overflowing happiness with their current situation. They have sent this gift for you-"
The Angel opened an ornate box and there were several severed heads inside. He looked down at the gruesome gift and then back at his Angel with a dumbfounded expression on his face, "What the hell is this for?"
"Apparently, there are some denizens of the Elven Kingdom that does not wish to bow to you, the 3 Princes sent their heads to you in a show of fealty."
"I appreciate their gift," the Fallen smiled, so even the New World denizens hold their oaths to heart, "Send them my regards and have them be at ease of heart. Concentrate on rebuilding, until such time that they are able to stand on their own as a country."
"By the way, try to find out what the Elven Kingdom used to export to other nations."
All three of them were still discussing the items they would be trading when a knock came from the door. Baraqiel stood up and then went to the door, opening it slightly, a piece of paper was thrust to his hand as the Magos who carried it bowed and retreated back to where he came from. The Angel General took a moment to read the message and quickly walked back to the Warmaster.
"My Lord, urgent message from the Expedition Force-"
"-to the Dwarven City?"
"Aye."
Sammael quickly grabbed the piece of paper and scanned the message from the paper. He stood up and nods his head, "Baraqiel, muster your ship and your Legion. Send relief at once, you lead them. I need proof that dwarves survive, establish contact and then inform me or Ainz?."
The addressed Angel stood up and immediately puts a hand on his left chest, "As you command My Lord, I will reactivate the 'Heavenly Bolt' at once."
He opened a [Gate] and stepped inside the portal at once leaving Zadkiel and Sammael alone.
"My Lord, would it be alright if only Baraqiel engage any enemies at the Azerlisia Mountains? He could encounter someone more powerful than him-"
"-yes, he might. But he would need the experience. If I actually do not need you here running things around the Trading House then I would send you there too, but I need you here, so let's get back to what we were discussing."
"Aye sir."
The Fallen and his remaining General discussed their plans further including the subjugation of the Theocracy and the movements they will be doing that coincide with the Undead Overlord will be doing in regards to the simultaneous annexation of the Re-Estize Kingdom and the Baharuth Empire.
.
.
Capital of the Re-Estize Kingdom
.
Princess Renner Vaiself, the Golden Princess of the Re-Estize Kingdom, took a stem of a chrysanthemum flower and snipped it with a gardening scissor. Her delicate hands daintily laid the flower on her flower basket as she smiled beautifully in the early morning sunshine. Not too far from her stood a young knight in white shining armor, his sword hung on his belt and his blonde hair was in a state of slight disarray. It was not just the two of them, but for the young Knight, it felt like they were in their own world. Though such thoughts are only fitting for dreams, but they are still dreams nonetheless for this young Knight.
"Climb, come here," the Princess beckoned for him to approach, as he reached where she kneeled in front of the flower bed. Renner gently placed a flower on a niche on his chest plate as she smiled warmly at him, "It suits you."
Climb bowed his head respectfully, "I am grateful for your gift Princess, I am honored to be in your service."
A shadow seemed to pass the face of the Golden Princess as she heard the knight's words of adoration, but it was only a fleeting moment as her face showed the bright smile as before.
"Your Highness," an adjutant came from a side entrance and announced loudly to get her attention, "I present the members of Blue Rose, Lady Lakyus and Lady Gagaran"
A boisterous voice laughed as the adjutant sweated uncomfortably as the larger of the two females loomed over him, "Lady!? Hear that Lakyus, I'm a lady! Say, want to have a few tussle with me? Just for a night?"
"Let's go Gagaran, you'll break the poor man's spine if you continue to advance."
The 'tank' of the group gave a smile and winked at the nervous adjutant, "See you tonight darling."
They approached the Golden Princess as she waited at the two of them right beside her flower bed, Climb kept his chin up, but as soon as the two of them arrived he bowed slightly as a sign of respect for the lady.
"Aha! Still a virgin I see?"
Lakyus looked cross at her, "Will you stop teasing the young man please?"
"Want me to pop your cherry?"
"Gah!"
Princess Renner laughed daintily at Climb's reaction of blushing and declining profusely, but deep inside, 'So DaMmn CUtE!'
"Your Highness, I would like to discuss something with you, this is in regards to the groups you wanted us to keep tabs on."
"Ah," Renner gave a sign of recognition as she stood up and gestured for everyone to follow, "I do hope you have good news for me."
"I have good news and bad news, which one would you want first?"
"My dear Lakyus, there is only news. There is no good or bad."
"Remember the cult you wished investigated? They're all dead."
The Golden Princess stopped in her tracks and looked back at the leader of Blue Rose, "My word, that us bad news."
"Anything good coming out of that encounter?"
"Well, it seems that we are not the only one who is coming after Zuranon and Eight Fingers," Lakyus walked side by side with the Princess as she entered a shaded room overlooking her flower garden.
"Do we know of anyone who would have the motive? Additionally, how did you come by this information?"
"We encountered an agent, an agent that was reportedly dead in an encounter with the S-Rank adventurer Momon the Black," each and everyone sat themselves on the lawn chairs near the shade as a servant laid down hot tea and sweet biscuits. Climb took his usual place standing a few paces away from his liege, "Clementine, the disgraced former member of the Black Scripture. We encountered her on that skirmish and she was quite 'different' if I may say so."
"Different? How so?"
"Your Highness," Lakyus sighed as she took a sip from her tea, "She was stronger, her deadly speed was enhanced by something- I cannot explain. But it felt very, very dangerous back then to face her."
"For an Adamantium Rank adventurer like you to take pause at an enemy, then I can only imagine what you felt facing her then," Princess Renner took a sip of her own tea and nods her head, "I am analyzing the situation, powerful beings were reported by the Head Warrior to be helping a village on the frontier. Not long after that the Black Scripture was encountered on the outskirts of E-Rantel, a few miles away from the same village that the Sun Scripture was encountered."
"We were not aware that special units from the Theocracy were adamant on attacking E-Rantel," the leader of Blue Rose looked concerned, "I wasn't even aware that the Theocracy was in E-Rantel."
"Were they undermining the authority of the King?"
"I do not think so, there were evidence to point out otherwise."
Lakyus shook her head, "Ah, it seems the noble faction wished to weaken the position of the King and the Crown am I right?"
"Indeed, it is very fortunate that Gazef-dono was provided assistance by an unknown magic caster."
"Is it the same one that is the King of the Sorcerer Kingdom?"
"Yes, the same undead. Now, these are special units to fight the enemies of the Theocracy, I believe they are there for an entirely different reason," Renner sipped at her tea and smiled at Climb, "I may need some time to think the reasons and motives why they would be there in the first place."
"By the way, where are the other Blue Roses?"
"Oh? I sent Tia and Tina on a reconnaisance mission on our leads about Eight Fingers, Evil Eye took some time off."
"I see," Princess Renner looked at the warm sky, her eyes reflecting a deeper purpose with a large dose of hope thrown in. Little did the rest of them know that thr Golden Princess had already gotten the gist of most of the reasons why the Theocracy's agents were there. Maybe, just maybe if these new forces can measure up, well, she might need to initiate contact or at least feed them a line, if they are up to it.
.
Meanwhile
.
"Our preparations are done to settle in the city, we have begun to establish contacts within and now will begin preparations for phase 2."
"The mansion has been secured," Solution stood up, her face indifferent as usual, "Sebas-sama, we will now send the 'go ahead' to the Great Tomb. Shall we send the invitations to the nobles of this kingdom?"
"As soon as possible, we must make it final," the old butler's face was hard and unyielding, "And we are alone Solution, we are both equal to the eyes of the Supreme Beings."
Together with the fall of E-Rantel, many nobles, both high and low of bearing made the exodus to the capital of the Re-Estize Kingdom. The sudden influx of nobles meant that this is the perfect time to go with the refugees. As such, Sebas and Solution was sent ahead to plot the next phase of an operation that was orchestrated by Demiurge. However, they would need to dig in deep first to get the feel on the lifeline on this city. Projected completion of this plan would be 2 years according to the Guardian and the Supreme Beings approved the plan. It is in their hope now that everything falls into place.
.
.
To be continued
(A/N: And... here I GO AGAIN!)
Chapter 3 has been re-written.
Count Erythro is an OC inserted on Chapter 7 of this fic.
Cheers,
Scarabeye3000