Heaven or Hell

by Scarabeye3000

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

17. The Revolution Begins

Disclaimer: Seriously, I would have owned Overlord if I'm a gazilllionaire, sadly I am not. So, tough then.

Title: Heaven or Hell

Chapter 17 - The Revolution

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Re-Estize Kingdom

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Hilma Cygnaeus caressed the pearl necklace that hung on her pretty neck as her face bore the smile of a woman sated of its materialistic tendencies. Around her room were jewelry made of precious stones and metals, silver, gold, and aluminum. Numerous dresses made from the smoothest fabric she had ever felt in her life, even the most royal of color, which is purple and blue, was given to her with such abundance that she could not even think of what to do with the fabric itself. Truly, it was an excellent time for the envoys from the Baharuth Empire to come to her. They somehow knew of the party she was assembling for the newly arrived nobles clans and asked permission for them to participate in the party that she had organized. Not to mention, they were envoys from the merchant that they specifically wish to touch base upon, she couldn't wait to inform the other members of Eight Fingers on what they talked about. It was only a few days ago that they arrived and she could not believe the fortune of her meeting the envoy. A handsome man with excellent manners, he seemed charmed at her and lavished her praises and gifts, but that is to be expected as all men she met seemed charmed by her noble countenance.

No, it was something else.

No matter though, what is important is they reached out to them and now she can boast to the organization of her achievements. And so now they arrived at this momentous time as the ball, she kept her hair down and combed it until a slight sheen could be seen. The guest had been arriving one by one as she could hear the bustle of the horse-drawn carriages and her servants scurrying around the grounds. As she put the finishing touches on her dress and her make-up, she looked out the window and saw a pack of sleipnirs pulling a large carriage. On one of its side flew the flag of the merchant, the 2 headed eagle, its wings spread far into a flying position. She always wondered what they meant.

Perhaps tonight she could get the envoys to elaborate on them further or better yet get them to consign their products to the organization.

'With a little charm...' she bats her eyelash at the mirror sultrily, "...everything is possible."

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"Sir Zadicus, is it really fine for me to go to such a party?"

"Why not?" the disguised angel who was riding with her in the carriage fixed his tunic, the same white ensemble he wore on the party at the Baharuth Empire. With a white epaulet that flowed behind him, it was clipped into his dress with an ornate wing clip adorned with a green gem. He then fixed the young Arche a stern glare and said, "As of now, you represent the Trading House of our master. You will present yourself in a noble and dignified matter that is befitting your position. Take note Arche, we must make a good impression so that the doors of trade would be opened to us."

"Of course Sir Zadicus, I'll be on my best behavior," she answered earnestly as she also fixed her suit. Gone was the adventurer garb that she wore, rather she was now dressed in the same tunic that Zadicus was wearing, although it has lesser embroidery. Though it was the same, the tailors made sure that it accentuated her female features and gave the appearance that the tunic was for a woman. Additionally, instead of a skirt, she wore riding breeches and a riding skirt that was embroidered and matching knee high boots. Holding her staff on one of her hand, she looked outside as the large mansion of Hilma Cygnaeus loomed closer.

Arriving at the doorstep of the mansion, they alighted from the carriages and was welcomed by servants. Servants that were good-looking, easy on the eyes, and obviously quite charming. She presumed they were used to 'entertain' other guest in their activities. She puts it aside as she followed Zadicus closely, his sword dangled on his right as he stepped on the veranda and looked at the guest one by one. He was scanning for her and right on cue, Hilma Cygnaeus walked from the 2nd floor rooms into the first floor greeting her guest one by one as she made her way through the party. Patiently, Zadicus and Arche waited for her as she made her way towards them until finally she smiled up at the disguised angel.

"I am glad you could make it," her eyes said invitingly.

"... and I am glad that you could use our products so soon," he kissed the offered hand and smiled back at her, "Again, may I present Arche, a junior associate of our Trading House."

"Charmed," Hilma gave her a haughty smile and turned away from her. Arche couldn't help but feel that she only greeted her in deference to Sir Zadicus, well, can't blame her. Lord Sammael's inner circle has a charm that can easily match any Prince or esteemed gentleman any day.

The envoy of the Trading House led her towards her guests and began working her way into her, "Lady Hilma, I must say that I am more than grateful of allowing us to integrate into the inner circle of the Kingdom. Truly, the Gods themselves have smiled down on me for bringing you into my attention. You even managed to arrange a meeting with the First Prince."

Hilma smiled at his words, she find it odd that a person, a male that is supposed to be her specialty allured her to no end. He had no specific smell about him, in fact, he smelled like newly made paper, a smell she loved ever since she was a child. Yet, there was something about him that attracted her to no end. Hence, her extra service to ensure that the Trading House would be indebted to her and to an extension to the organization as they try and penetrate the Re-Estize Kingdom.

"W-well, I am deeply moved that you would think I made such a thing possible," she tried to control herself and tried not to jumble her words, "I only asked the Crown Prince to join us tonight."

"Y-you did?" his blush reached his ears as the woman looked pleased with the effect she had on him, "I am honored and surprised that you would do it for me, my Master would be extremely pleased with me if all goes well and I can report back to him with the initial provision Trade agreement with the Kingdom."

A twinge of sadness made its way into Hilma's cruel heart, a sensation so foreign it surprised her that she was still familiar to it. "Will you leave so soon?"

Zadicus looked hesitant as his eyes met hers, "I can of course send Arche back alone, if something- or someone would make it worthwhile."

Arche actually saw the woman's face lit up as she looked entirely pleased with herself. She took a goblet of wine and stuck with the 2 Skitarii escorts he brought for them. She sidled up next to them and asked, "What do you think of that woman anyway and what is your name?"

"This one is given a designation of Companion 12 Lady Arche," it bowed slightly, the black gas mask obscuring the lower half of its face yet its eyes were the neutral brown of a human, "Master Zadicus has manipulated the woman well, he had applied ample charm and grace to help put him in an advantageous position that would be beneficial for the fulfillment of the objectives set forth by Lord Samuel."

The girl looked surprised at that, she used to speak with the red-robed guards before and only got a few words in reply. But Companion 12 actually replied in one whole sentence and was able to carry an intelligent conversation and actually shared his own insight and observation with her.

"I'm surprised that you can actually talk," her surprise evident on her voice.

"It is as you say, I have been upgraded as a Command Unit, my rank is actually different from the common Legionnaire. I am what you would call a Tribunii, a rank higher than a Centurion, as such we are given additional brain mass and education to better take stock of a situation and make effective decisions for the Legion."

Upgraded? That thought lingered but she dismissed it to continue their escort's talking streak, "So, most of you are officers?"

"Indeed."

"And they name you Companion 12?"

"You are not aware Lady Arche, but the 20 Companions are all Tribunii class legionnaires," he showed his armored forearm and she saw the emblazoned 'T' on it, "Lord Samuel wanted a small and elite team to accompany this caravan. Unfortunately, we cannot bring a Praetor with us since it is unheard of for Praetors to accompany a caravan."

"Praetors? So, there are more elite soldiers than you? And are they really that powerful?"

She could almost hear the smile on the voice of the Tribunii Companion, "That is affirmative Lady Arche. They are worth at least 5 of us, their names are permanently inscribed in the 1st Chapter of every Legion."

"You speak of the legion as if there is a lot of you, but I only saw those that guard the Trading House and the one who guards the Manor," she shifted her leg as she stood up and took another small sip on her wine, "How many Legions are there any way?"

Companion 12's eyes met her as he bowed slightly and said, "Forgive me Lady Arche, that is one information I cannot give freely, as such, only Lord Samuel can explain it further."

She wanted to pursue the issue further, but a loud horn blow captured their attention. Servants and attendants ran to the door and even Zadicus looked curiously at the doorway as Hilma gave a small laugh excitedly. Prince Barbro being on their side could push for the inclusion of the Trading House from the Baharuth Empire as a special quid pro quo type of agreement. Either way, in case there are provisions there that would limit the trade then the 'organization' could step in and 'assist' in the additional numbers that it would need and generate. It's a win-win situation that Hilma was quite pleased to have orchestrated and would surely elevate her value within the organization. They all waited as the entrance was cleared and an adjutant stepped forward and exclaimed.

"Presenting! The Sovereign Ruler of the Re-Estize Kingdom and All its Protectorate, His Royal Majesty, King Rampossa III."

All eyes turned to the doorway as the King appeared with the Warrior-Captain on his side, dressed in a simple regalia, compared to his monarchial raiments. Indeed, it still looked stylish and opulent compared to those nobles gathered around them. The King walked forward and immediately nobles of all rank bowed their heads before their monarch. The adjutant though tapped his staff again and exclaimed loudly.

"Presenting! The Crown Prince and Captain-Commander of the Armies, His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Barbro Andrean Ield Ryle Vaiself."

Zadicus and Arche looked as a tall man with blond hair and a strong jaw stood on the doorway and formally walked in. The Prince was garbed in a black military dress uniform, a longsword on his hip as he followed his father in entering and joining the party. They watched as nobles of all status, class and upbringing paid their respects by bowing at the approaching monarch. Until finally they reached the host of the evening, Hilma Cygnaeus, as she also bowed in respect.

As the King approached, Arche bowed in a manner befitting a noblewoman of the Baharuth Empire and her gesture was not missed by Rampossa III.

"A greeting from the court of the Baharuth Empire?" the King's interest was piqued, "I never thought I would get to receive such a greeting within my lands. Who are you young lady?"

"Your Majesty, you are indeed wise and well-versed with protocols within and without your realm," Arche kept her head bowed as she confidently answered the King, "You speak the truth Your Majesty, I am indeed from the Baharuth Empire and currently represents our Trading House that would like to open trade with the Kingdom."

"Does this Trading House do not know of the political state between the Empire and the Kingdom? I could have you clapped in irons for just being here?" the King tested her, "What makes you think I will welcome envoys from the Empire?"

"Indeed you can do that Your Majesty, but you are also known to be of fair mind and sound judgement. Additionally, the owner of the Trading House is not a native of this land, he has come from far beyond this continent to settle here and merely wish to establish trading rights and open avenues of 'limited trade' for items that are 'unique' within the Kingdom, in exchange for 'unique' items within the Empire. A quid pro quo agreement."

Rampossa III gave a small smile, "Quid pro quo indeed, you pique my interest young lady, surely you have not come alone to my Kingdom. Who is your companion?"

"It is I your Majesty," it was Zadicus's turn to bow and this time even the King also looked up a bit to him, "My master, Samuel, came from the distant land of Cadia. The continent where we came from is called in the old tongue of 'Alkebulan', as diverse as the continent where we are now. Grasslands, mountains, forest, jungles, deserts, lakes and marshes. Great cities and civilization that could stand in comparison to all that we have seen in the Empire and Kingdom however, my master wishes to travel and see the whole world. Beyond what is our lands can see, as such we move from where ever we are and trade what we can and then we move on to other civilizations and places."

"So, your Master is a scholar?"

"Not so your Majesty, he is a businessman with an extensive thirst in knowledge and a whimsical desire for adventure," Zadicus smiled at that, he did not lie, that was what his Master described himself to be, well, at least with the Baharuth Empire at least, "As such your Majesty, we would like to extend our desire to open a Trading House that would be open both in the Empire and in the Kingdom. "

"I am intrigued by this, Barbro," he gestured for his eldest and the proud and haughty man sidled up to him, "This gentleman has proposed that we open a 'Trading House' that is linked to the Empire."

The First Prince rubbed his chin and looked at Zadicus, "Do you have any products that could convince us to agree to this? Furthermore, you want to open a 'Trading House' that is linked to the Baharuth Empire, an avenue for spies to penetrate our borders and-"

"Premium items can and will make its way here, My Prince, products such as-" the General gestured and 2 red robed Skitarii approached bearing a medium chest each, heaping with numerous gifts that brightened the eyes of the 2 monarchs. Zadicus plucked a small box from the numerous trinkets inside the chest and held it in front of the King, he slowly opened it and smiled as the old man looked in wonder.

"A wonderful gift for any young lady, a jewel encrusted, lacquered box that sings," a soft melody reached their ears as a sweet song permeated from the opened box, "I am sure the King have never seen such a box before? It is not powered by any magic, but by machines only. Therefore, the song will always play as long as the machine is not compromised."

King Ranpossa III seemed impress, his thoughts were on his only daughter as the man named Zadicus pulled out another type of gift. It was a bottle of wine and he showed it to the First Prince as he also took out a crystal glass, "Your Highness, Prince Barbro, a type of wine that has a more robust flavor than the wines you have tasted so far."

Two crystal glasses were produced as the angel smiled and took a measured sip, "To your good health and to the prosperity of this venture."

Prince Barbro carefully sipped his own after he saw that the trader already drank his. As soon as the drink reached his lips, a warm blanket of contentment seemed to envelope him as the bouquet of the aged wine filled his senses.

"What is this?"

"It is called brandy my Prince, it is aged for 14 years-"

"14 YEARS!?" Prince Barbro exclaimed as even the King looked at the reddish brown liquid as if it was liquid gold, "Why is it aged for so long?"

"Of course, your Highness. To be able to have the best of the flavor, the brandy is aged in oak barrels, in underground cellars undisturbed of course, but ensured that the barrels would not suffer rot or anything that might compromise the liquid inside," he snapped his fingers again and two ornate bottles were produced, "It is quite fortuitous that the King and the Crown Prince is here, let me give you these gifts. Our oldest brandy to date- this was made by our Master's great-grandfather and was recently opened and transferred to bottles. One for each of you, Your Highness es."

Prince Barbro looked at the reddish gold liquid and stared at it greedily, such fine items was indeed worthy of royalty and this person has honored them as such. In his eyes, he's just all aces.

"How old is this?"

Zadicus smiled and bowed, "Your Highness, this is a 100 year old brandy. I dare not taste it, for my Master forbid it to be tasted except by royalty only. As such, the cork is sealed by wax and affirmed with his signet ring."

King Ranpossa III looked at the hidden Angel and then down at the bottled elixir, it was such fine crystal and he noticed the symbol of the twin headed eagle of the Trading House of Samuel.

"We accept your gifts Zadicus," the old man finally declared, "Furthermore, I am directing the Crown Prince to discuss further the terms and limitations of the Trading House that you are proposing to open."

The Angel General bowed respectfully and felt actually relieved that he didn't need to resort to more drastic measures to persuade the King to agree to it. Even allowing them to negotiate with the 1st Prince was already half of the victory, as such, they can now proceed with the plan to tie both the Empire and the Kingdom into a decision that would shake the powers of this land.

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Sebas and Solution looked on as Zadicus and Arche interacted with the King and Crown Prince, the NPC of Lord Sammael is flawlessly working with the human as he expounded on the tenets of establishing a trading house. He skillfully lined the reasons why the Kingdom would benefit from this tenets and be used as an avenue for a possible talks in of cooperation. A notion that was not lost on the King, whose inhibitions was a bit loosened by the exquisite drink that is best served only for royalty and persons of such high importance. The two servants of Nazarick also looked as the other nobles took note of the growing influence of the envoys from the Baharuth Empire, or rather the traders of said place.

The Angel gave a small laugh when he gestured towards both of them and the King and Crown Prince looked into their general direction.

Solution almost gave a start as the King motioned for her, she met his eyes as Sebas brought up the rear. As they neared the King she felt a slight tingle in her mind.

'Is that you Sir Zadkiel?'

'Indeed it is, your cover story is the daughter of a noble that was left in E-Rantel to care for their property and holdings correct?'

'Yes'

'Keep to the story, I have told the King that your father and I met on the road once and I reached out to him when I heard of the unfortunate event that happened in E-Rantel. As such, your father mentioned you were sent here to ensure your safety and he was left there without you having any word.'

'Understood.'

The connection was cut as she bowed and curtsied in front of the King, the old man gave a small bow, "Tell me your name and what noble family you hail from?"

"If it ever pleases the King, my name is Selena, my father is Duke Beren, we are a branch family of the Duquis. Unfortunately, the fall of E-Rantel brought the demise of the Duquis main family branch as the head was Baron Fauster-"

"Wasn't his estate the one near the frontier?"

"Yes, your Majesty, my last report was that the whole family was slain since they were not aware of the rules of engagement of the invaders."

The King stroked his chin as he swirled his drink, "Most unfortunate then. It has come to my attention already the policies the invaders in E-Rantel implemented regarding the running of their territory. This Sorcerer King has shown mercy to those that dare not raise their hands against him, in truth, most soldiers that came from E-Rantel spoke tales of great discipline in their adversaries ranks."

Solution bowed and went against her way to grin maniacally, for to hear praises, especially for the creations of the Supreme Beings is extremely euphoric for servants such as her, "It is as your Majesty knows, I can attest to the strength of their soldiers, their discipline and the restraint that they have shown in dealing with the general populace. We were even allowed to keep most of our treasures and things with us however, they were quite adamant about searching for artifacts from Gods."

"Father, here is a citizen of the Kingdom, who was rashly uprooted from her place and their family sundered by this usurper that dared to proclaim our glorious fortress city of E-Rantel as their own," the Crown Prince voice was raised as he downed the rest of the brandy, "Should we not make policies that would stifle this so-called city state in its infancy? We have the manpower and the resources to raise up an army, we can extend a hand towards the Theocracy since the Sorcerer King is undead, and now even the Empire has sent a hand in friendship with this Trading House."

Zadicus smile did not escape Solution's eye as she finally understood a bit on what the Supreme Being was trying to achieve. Her self-doubt was suddenly washed away as her mind finally got the gist of what they were trying to achieve, no doubt she would need to confirm it later during their debriefing.

"Should we not take steps at least, to limit their power and influence, to ask our surrounding Kingdoms in cooperation with the destruction of this- aberration."

She saw that the King was silent in contemplation, he looked at the cold sorrowful eyes of Solution until finally he said, "We shall speak of it tomorrow, for now, let us mingle with the other nobles."

Crown Prince Barbro took another goblet of wine and walked off with his adjutant in tow. Zadicus bowed with Hilma in one hand and Arche trailing behind him, Sebas turned around as Solution also walked off somewhere. Unbeknownst to the nobles present, an additional shadow latched itself into them. From a corner of the gathering hall, Gazef Stronoff stood away from the King. He was scanning the whole hall for any potential threats, since the inception of so many nobles within the capital city recently. A sudden increase in population could also spell an increase in civil disturbance, crime rate, food shortages, even opponents of the Crown that have been sent to that far flung city found itself in the seat of power of the Kingdom once more. Of course, the Crown could never turn back these nobles without just cause, in order for appearance to be maintained and for the citizens not to feel too disgruntled at the recent events at E-Rantel.

Thus, it has fallen to Gazef and his cadre of warriors to attend to His Majesty's defense at all times.

He looked back and forth towards the numerous guests gathered and milling about the hall, he took note of the hooded red figures that stood in attention on one side. From his place, he could see that the 2 were heavily armed and armored. An iron cuirass with the standard of their employer stamped in the front, Gazef also saw that underneath their robes, aside from the cuirass they wore for their upper body, they also wore a mixture of steel lamellar armor and a base skirt. The Warrior Captain's brow furrowed, 'Since they are security for a travelling caravan, of course, they would need flexible and sturdy armor. Preferably light and easy to discard, but their swords and armor are all of such high-standard.'

"Good evening."

Surprised, but he didn't show, Gazef turned to the merchant that was speaking with the King awhile ago. He gave a small smile and bowed, "Good evening to you sir. To what do I owe the pleasure of introduction?"

Zadicus smiled, "Your reputation precedes you Warrior-Captain."

"How did you know who I was?" the Warrior-Captain let slip a little suspicious tone on his voice. He was wondering how the man easily identified him.

"Please, you stand on one side scanning the entire room, but not entirely looking away from His Majesty-"

"I did not think I was that obvious."

"-plus you have the look of a commoner."

Aha! A pompous noble this Trader Zadicus is- "Indeed, I am a commoner. It is general knowledge that the Warrior-Captain and His Majesty's personal guard is a commoner. His Majesty plucked me from the peasantry when I was still a boy and I have trained my whole life to serve as his sword and shield."

"Such faith and loyalty to a person, commendable of course," the man named Zadicus took a sip of his drink, "Of course, I would understand your predicament. For I am a commoner as well."

The Warrior-Captain looked at the supposed noble again, it was not obvious from his body language, movement and the way he carried himself. One would easily think that he was a very educated man and the son of a great noble family. "I did not expect such as you to be-"

"-a peasant like you?" Zadicus gave a small laugh and handed over a drink he snatched from a passing server to Gazef, "You know Warrior-Captain, no one here knows who I am. This is the only thing that keeps the upper crust nobility from dismissing me as someone below their notice."

He pointed at his head as the Warrior-Captain smiled at that and took a sip from his drink, "Your head or your brain?"

"Yes and yes."

Gazef patted his sword and sighed, "Even if I have this sword, nobles still look down on me. Even try to 'hamper' my services to the King."

"Do you not find it exasperating?"

"I do, more than once have I needed to re-evaluate the reasons why I should keep doing what I need to do," he gaze a small smile again and gestured towards the King with his head, "But as long as His Majesty needs my services, then I will continue to serve him."

"Such faith on your King-" Zadicus took out a small tag, the same one used to identify adventurers in both the Kingdom and Empire's territory, "-and such faith and loyalty is not one fraught without hate and jealousy," he gave the small silver tag to Gazef who examined it with a critical eye, "But just in case you find yourself in a difficult position and unable to keep your promise to your King. And in the unfortunate time that you need a friend, just go to any Trading House that is connected with us and you would be welcomed."

The Warrior-Captain scrutinized the silver tag and found it emblazoned with the double headed eagle and a small green jewel on its top, "It is a generous gift and one I am inclined not to accept."

"However?"

"-however," Gazef continued, "So as not to be rude and of course to smooth relations with the Trading House. I am accepting such gifts, even though I think a commoner like me is not worthy enough."

"As I mentioned before, your quality precedes you Warrior-Captain," Zadicus raised his glass and turned away from him, but before he could walk away, the Captain spoke again, "Haven't we met before Sir Zadicus?"

"Why would you say that?"

"An odd sense of deja vu, plus you gave me a generous gift."

The Angel general gave a small laugh, "Well, as my grand pappy used to say. Us commoners need to stick together."

"Enjoy the party Captain Stronoff," and he was soon lost into the crowd. Gazef could only look again at the silver tag he was given, there really was an odd sense of deja vu in speaking with that man. Like he knew him from somewhere before, but it was impossible since he came from the Baharuth Empire and he do not know many nobles or at least their servants from that nation. He carefully pocketed the silver tag and headed for the direction of His Majesty, it is not wise to linger too far from King, he needed to stay alert so that the silver tag may not be needed to be used.

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The gathering waned down as soon as King Ranpossa III took his leave, the Crown Prince including the 2nd Prince followed soon thereafter. Zadicus, Solution, Arche and Sebas all boarded their carriage as Hilma waved from the 2nd floor veranda at the departing guests. She turned towards the house and was not surprised that Zero stood there waiting for her.

"So?"

"What do you mean so? Of course I got the committal of the Crown to broker the Trade deal with our trader friend."

Zero walked beside her as they headed downstairs, most of the servants have gone home and only those servants that operate directly with the organization are left within the estate. The two executive members did not need to fear that they would be discovered as they walked towards the cellar.

"Are you sure that the Kingdom would allow the Trade deal to go through?"

"I am sure, plus, my contact within the Trading House is as good as my word."

"You sound confident at least."

"I am confident with my charm Zero, I can charm the hell out of this Zadicus fellow using only my eyes and my butt."

"That's Hilma for you."

The bald man did not comment, but only gave a slight grin, he had to hand it to her. Being the highest paid prostitute in the Kingdom does have its rather ring to it. They walked a further more until they reached the gathering area for their meeting tonight, around the large circular table sat all the other executive members of Eight Fingers. The agenda for tonight was clear, getting their hold on the Trading House from the Baharuth Empire, the propagation of their numerous products and services, and of course, continued business with all the neighboring Kingdoms up to the Argland City States and beyond.

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Meanwhile

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Arche was given the task to draft the items that they would need to present tomorrow afternoon. Just in case the Crown Prince actually got up off his ass and discuss the terms of the Trading House with his father. As such, she was directed to rest immediately and wake up early tomorrow morning to rummage through the products that they would need. Zadicus waited until she had closed the door on her room before walking over to the study where Sebas and Solution was waiting. He carefully locked the study and casts a spell to prevent all manner of eavesdropping on whatever they will discuss inside tonight.

"Now then, shall we begin the debriefing?"

Sebas sat down in front of Zadicus as he removed the tunic that he wore for the rest of the day, "I am quite pleased that we were able to work seamlessly considering this is the first time that we actually had an operation together."

"Likewise," the old butler's face betrayed a small smile, "It is understandable why the Warmaster would elect you to such an endeavor. Few servants of Nazarick are able to perform the way that you did awhile ago."

"I am lucky that the Warmaster has foreseen the use of such guile and misdirection, though Solution herself and the follow-ups she gave the King led them to believe her story."

The female slime gave a creepy grin at that, "The story was sent to us in detail by scroll and also discussed by Lord Ainz himself. I would like to clarify though, do we wish the Kingdom, the Empire and the Theocracy to band against the Sorcerer Kingdom?"

Zadkiel's face gave a small smile, "You are intelligent indeed, Lord HeroHero truly made you well in his image. From what I have gathered from the Warmaster and the Sorcerer King, then your assumption is correct. I believe their phrase was 'casus belli' in initiating this endeavor. You are aware that E-Rantel sits in the middle of 3 nations right?"

Sebas and Solution both nodded, it was not a secret. E-Rantel was a large fortress city that guarded the flank of the Re-Estize Kingdom from the Baharuth Empire. One cannot enter the Kingdom without going through that city, as such any large army would need to siege E-Rantel first before proceeding to the Re-Estize Kingdom Capital. Unfortunately, since the Sorcerer Kingdom made the fortress city their capital, it is now located in the middle of three nations. Zadkiel took out a map and drew a circle with his finger, "Let me explain to you the way the Warmaster explained it to me. This is the foothold or the proverbial beach head our forces have managed to take in this world."

"Our foothold is south of the Azerlisia Mountains, in-between it is the Great Forest of Tob, incidentally, it is also where the Great Tomb is located near"

"On the West of E-Rantel lies the Kingdom, on the East lies the Empire, while the South is the famed Theocracy."

Zadkiel shook his head, "I cannot reiterate the urgency that the Warmaster has tasked us with, but he told us of our vulnerability in case a nation should attack us. However, if all four fronts are held and reinforced by the Sorcerer Kingdom, then it would be so much harder to penetrate and lay siege to the Great Tomb."

"I have heard other operations that are being conducted by the Undead King and the Warmaster," Sebas rubbed his chin and sighed, "Is it safe to assume that our colleagues are also doing their part on the other fronts?"

"Yes, as we speak 'Operation: Reinhard' has begun on the Azerlisia Mountains," Zadkiel produced a scroll and puts it in front of both servants from Nazarick, "I cannot express further what the Warmaster wishes to be done, you must read it from this scroll and we must destroy it afterwards."

Solution looked down at the scroll as Sebas unfurled it, their eyes met as they read the name of the operation.

"Operation: Gleiwitz?"

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Azerlisia Mountain - Feo Berkana

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Praetor Matthias Herzog kept his sword at the ready as he looked at the damaged building of the Merchant Guild. All around them dazed, wounded and shell-shocked Quagoa are being killed off one by one by the 7th Legion as this became the triage center for the wounded of the enemy. The frontlines had shifted a couple of hours ago and the last Quagoa fighters are either dead, wounded or in the process of dying. Though he had no qualms about executing prisoners and mercy is reserved only to those who are innocent, it is not in their place to judge who is and who is not. As such, the order to kill everyone remained as he passed the dead corpse of a group of young Quagoa children, their heads oozing with blood as they were gunned down by the advancing Legion. But such trivial thing was not the pursuit of the Praetor, he was pursuing a lead that was sent forth by one of the Centurion's that initiated the 'Last Light' protocol. The video feed showed it encountered a white furred Quagoa and it was identified as the 'Clan Lord' of these kinds of beast.

He would need to confirm the identity of that Clan Lord and make sure of its demise to ensure the rest of their race would bow down and eliminate any additional complications in dealing with them.

Heavy footfalls made him stop as he turned and saw the darkness walking towards him, or rather a part of darkness made manifest in this realm.

Lord-General Bardiel's aura oozed out from him like a malevolent cloud as their enemy that managed to cling to life suddenly felt their soul snuffed out of them. He stifled a shiver as a cold draft ran through his body, as the shadowy general stepped up to him, he bowed low and saluted with his clenched fist on his chest.

"My Lord-General, I am happy you have arrived without delay."

Dark soulless eyes stared back at him as the general pointed towards the half-destroyed Merchant Guild, "I thought the restriction on the use of explosive rounds has not been lifted. Why is it that administrative building is almost falling apart?"

"W-well, one of our Centurion's was captured and he initiated 'Last Light' Protocol."

"Did he? Such devotion to the war..." the General shook his head, "We lost an excellent soldier I'm sure."

"Indeed sir, he was one of the first Centurions and was a veteran since the battle of the Fenrisian Sea."

"Really? So, he was there from the start of the Reliqua Crusade. What a waste then it is- carve his name then in the Halls of Heroes," and he meant it, once a Skitarii enacts the 'Last Light' protocol. They gather an enormous volume of light magic in them, until their magic container ruptures and explodes in a brilliant flash of pure light. Cleansing those around it of anything it deems its enemy. However, it also purges the brain of the user and they could not be 'recycled' back into active duty, losing information, experience, even knowledge gained since the Skitarii was active in its service. Hence, the words of the Lord-General in finding out of the 'Last Light' incident.

"Everybody ready?"

Weapons raised in agreement as General Bardiel stepped inside the crumbling building and right into the gloom.

The eyes of the Skitarii legionnaires adjusted quickly to the darkness as beams of light led the way forward. Bardiel walked unimpeded by the darkness as the rest of the legion followed after him. There was a lingering haze of dust in the air, results from the explosion that was made awhile ago, all the burning brazier were snuffed out as columns that are as thick as a 100 years old tree lay broken in front of them. Though it was just a pillar he could see the masonry design of the dwarves are quite similar to the Dwarves of Nidavellir back in Ygdrassil. He contemplated this information as they reached the main staircase that leads up to the upper levels, scattered all around are limbs and dead bodies of Quagoa. His cape was like a billowing cloud that followed behind as Praetor Herzog and Praetor Abaddon brought up both sides of the Lord-General.

Suddenly, Bardiel stopped in mid-step as he felt the darkness stir in front of him.

"Someone is here-"

Praetor Abaddon moved in front of him at once as he secured the protection of his General, while Praetor Herzog walked forward and vanished in a puff of smoke. The Legionnaires they brought with them was clearing the whole building on the first floor and only a handful of the 1st Company of the 7th and 3rd Legion came with the General. A few more seconds and a [Message] spell came through his consciousness.

"Lord-General, I found our objective.".

At once Bardiel continued walking and turned into a large room with its double doors blasted down. Silently he slinked through the opening and headed to where Praetor Herzog looked while kneeling at the prone form of the white-furred enemy. They could see it was bleeding heavily, half its body was cauterized by the searing light, as it gasped for air struggling to survive. One of its eye was gone as it turned to them with a pained expression.

"W-What do you want?"

.

"W-What do you want?"

His whole body ached from pain, his sight was blurry and the dust lingering in the air stifled his breathing. Yet, these large men stood in front of him, looking every bit as superior as the Dwarves thought they used to be.

"Y-you are not Dwarves."

"Astute observation dour creature," the one clad in black armor spoke without warmth in its voice. Such coldness in every syllable chilled him to no end, like Death himself came for his soul, "To think that you would have the gall to come against the Alpha and the Black Legion?"

"You are lucky, to have all the information against us and has caught us unprepared, but the Quagoa would forever hound you and soon we would take this mountain for ourselves. It may not be in my lifetime, but soon, those that have remained in the darkness of the mountain, those that have grown far out of your reach would rise up against you. Our race will persevere and live on against you-"

The black armored adversary then opened his wings and a soft light exuded from it, "Silly creature, let me tell you about Operation: Reinhard. It is a all-encompassing directive, an order to subjugate the whole Azerlisia Mountain range into submission. All races under it will comply or it will be destroyed and all knowledge about such a race will be expunged from all manner of writing and record. Unfortunately, you damn beast, your race will not be remembered. Your name would not live on past this battle, not even your younglings can and will remember you. Every youngling that can think and remember will be killed, burned or executed and only those truly called as a babe will be spared and grow up, living only as a servant. Neutered and unable to multiply- you think the darkness will hide your race? We will scour every creature in this mountain and we will bring them to heel or ground them to dust."

A cold primal fear gripped me as I thought about the future of my race, will there be no future? Is our mighty race reduced to servitude and he was about to argue further when a black cylindrical tube came from nowhere and I stammered in surprise, "Wha-"

DAKKA!

.

DAKKA!

Bardiel stepped away from the dead Quagoa leader and turned to Abaddon, "I want its head sent to the Supreme Beings and I want its fur cured and kept in reserve as a gift. Also, the fur of these creatures are resistant to normal steel weapons. We can perhaps make use of their fur and see if they can be used to augment future negotiations and human or even dwarven armaments."

"Your will be done Lord General," the two Praetors bowed in unison as the Angel of Hails walked away.

With the ancient city of Feo Berkana taken by the forces of Ainz Ooal Gown, then they could now focus on the Dragons that was still not aware of what happened. Bardiel opened his wings and flapped it twice, the other Legionnaires paid him no mind, they were sent to other tasks and it would not do well if they would simply gawk at their General if he wishes to fly away. As he left the ground, his eyes swept through the whole city, to think that this large city was made without the touch of the hands of the Supreme Beings.

For a couple of demi-humans, these dwarves are surprisingly excellent engineers. He passed one of the large stone pillars that held up the whole weight of the mountain. Their leader must probably another Supreme Being or at least, a God-kin which in essence a descendant of these beings. The Warmaster had a book in his collection that he loved to read, it was about the journey of a half-human and his companion on their quest to destroy jewelry. There were lessons on that book that their master continued to reiterate over and over again. He could still recall them all as he imparted his knowledge upon them, but enough on that, he gently angled his wings as he began to initiate landing towards the only bridge connecting the city of Feo Berkana to the Royal Palace. Bardiel flapped his wings once more and he slowly glided down to the ground.

Landing softly beside another General, Bardiel's cold black eyes was a stark contrast to Baraqiel's bright brown eyes.

Baraqiel smiled as his older brother also smiled back.

"Feels good to stretch your legs?"

"Yep."

"You want to rest first before we push into the Royal Palace?"

"No," Bardiel's smile faded as he puts on his helm, "We're on a tight schedule."

Baraqiel also dons his helmet as both Angel Generals walked towards the bridge and stepped towards into the realm of the Dragon Clan.

.

Olasird'arc Hayliyal's eyes opened as he felt something cross the boundary of the Royal Palace. Though he had not heard anything even with his draconic hearing, it somewhat rankled his senses that someone entered their domain without permission. If this is the foolish Quagoa again trying to negotiate their tributes that they were sending to them, then he might need to discipline them. He stood up from the small hoard of gold and precious gems that he was using as his bed and called out to one of his wives.

"Kilistran!" his voice reverberated through the whole place as it carried the authority of the White Dragon Lord, "Kilistran! Where are you woman?"

"What is it?"

Another dragon came down from the large staircase as she looked haughtily at the Dragon Lord. Her features are the same as his however, there are certain traits about her that are female. Though draconian, compared to the stocky and mighty image of the Dragon Lord. She was lesser in size, more lithe and looked much streamlined, including some features on her physique that could identify her as a female of their specie.

"Send out your eldest son and see who dares intrudes on our Place."

"You mean Hejinmal?"

"Who else is your eldest anyway? Of course, Hejinmal," the Dragon Lord scoffed his son's name, "Someone has entered the Royal Palace and I want him to deal with it. Now, consider this a favor as he tries to win my approval. Plus, he better start shaping up to be a real dragon before I force him out of our dwelling."

"And here I thought you would grow tired of the Quagoa first before of your own kin."

The dragon hissed at his mate, "Don't provoke me woman, get your son to come down from his roost at the library or I'll destroy the books he so lovingly cherish."

Kilistran Denshusha did not speak anymore, she merely walked away from the Throne Room and headed for the Library where she knew her eldest child is located. Arriving at the large door, she continued to marvel at the engineering feat of the dwarves. If she knew that they were weaker than the Quagoa, then she would have subjugated them at their peak and have been proclaimed a Dragon Lord. Unfortunately, she was about to do that, when her mate beat her to it.

She scoffed at that thought, "Missed it by a few years."

But no use crying and reliving her regret, as with all powerful races, Dragons respect power, honor and honesty above all else. Thus, when he overpowered her and claimed her as one of his mates, she did not tried to rebuke him. As the clear victor of their duel, she allowed herself to be cowed, but only until she can gather enough strength to oppose him. Reaching the double doors of the grand library, she slapped the door open with her powerful tail as a mound of books greeted her.

"Hejinmal! Where are you?" her voice called out to her child, which she thinks was buried in this heaping mountain of books, "Hejinmal are you within that book mound?"

A dragon's snout surfaced from the numerous books, "Mother? Is that you mother?"

"Get up Hejinmal," her voice was urgent as she loomed over her son's sleeping form, "Get up or your father will make you get up."

"What does he want?" his eyes were half-closed as he tried to shake the grogginess from his senses, "Does he wish to be served again?"

"No! There are intruders that entered the Royal Palace grounds, bring them to your father."

The younger dragon whimpered, "Do I have to?"

"Do it or your father will go here and destroy your precious books."

"Wha-" that statement jolted him awake, "What did these books ever do to him anyway?"

"Just do it child," his mother stepped outside of his domain as Hejinmal hefted his body out of the mound of books.

The dragon Hejinmal stretched his body as he tried to waddle his way across the library. Unlike most dragons that looked blocky, spiked, frilled sinewy muscle covered by the most impregnable leather armor known to the New World. His own body lacked the muscles as his constant reading not only dulled his eyesight, but also turned his muscles into fat. As such, he was known within his family as the 'Dragon Pig' due to his portly body. But he cares not for the names, the titles he got, what he wished was to actually go out into the world and see the outside of this mountain. He wished to travel and learn more about new things in the world, alchemy, the sciences, even those bordering on magic fascinated him to no end. And to think that the great library of Feo Berkana did not hold all the knowledge in this world, for he read all the books in it and read some information was different from the last. Some sounded absurdly false, yet it was true in a sense, while other books were considered factual, yet other books denounced it a counter-argument of their own.

It was a thrilling experience to know and read about various things in this world. Though he might not encounter, see, feel or taste it all, he feels that in a sense, by having this knowledge with him. Then he could be a part of it, though little and of no consequence, he still feels a part of it.

And so, to preserve the knowledge who was threatened to be destroyed by his father. Hejinmal walked out of the library and headed for the main hall of the Royal Palace to begin looking for the intruders on the grounds of the Palace.

.

Baraqiel and Bardiel walked towards the Royal Palace as they crossed the large expanse of the main grounds of the Palace. From afar, they could see the mithril gate of the main palace glittering at the artificial light of a large magic crystal jutting from the cavern roof above them.

"I have to say, these dwarven engineers are something else."

"Why so?"

"Their structures are unique and their stonework is superb."

"How can you say that?"

Baraqiel pointed to a large stone mural not far from them depicting the everyday life of dwarves, another stone mural commemorated a certain battle, while another showcased a statue of a dwarven warrior, "See the sculptures? The masonry on every building? The stone cornices on every hall? The buildings looked like blocks of stone put together on top of each other, but then again this is supposed to support the mountain. But it was cleverly done with not just functionality, but aesthetics also in mind."

"Now that you mention it, I did find their architecture and stone work compelling while I was flying towards here," the black armored general walked with his brother in a relaxed manner. Not one of them was tensed, as they passed the threshold of the Royal Palace, that is when they felt the presence of the dragons inside the Palace itself. There were quite a few of them, but one particular feeling was heading towards them now. Yet even though one is heading for them, none of them felt the impulse to be at the ready, nor was there any screams from their instincts of danger. Hence, their previous conversation about dwarven stone architecture and masonry.

"Should we not prepare?"

"I don't know," Bardiel, one of the most ruthless of the 8 shrugged his shoulders. His bloodlust was non-existent as he felt the dragon approaching them as non-threatening. Almost bordering on comical.

"Do you also feel it?"

"Yes Baraqiel, yet do you also find the need to be at guard non-existent?"

Baraqiel's stopped walking and looked at his brother, "Indeed, I do not feel threatened at all."

"Maybe prudence dictate that you talk with this incoming first, who knows we might not need to initiate our directives."

"Wise decision brother," Baraqiel reformed his magical staff back to normal as the other one checked the clip on his magical scourge, "The restraint we have showed might earn us a praise from the Warmaster."

"We might."

The great mithril doors into the main hall swung open and a dragon poked its head out. They could see it observing them from afar as it ducked back in and finally waddle its way outside.

Baraqiel looked at Bardiel and said, "That is the fattest dragon that I have ever seen in my life."

"... u-huh..."

"What do we do?"

His brother was at a loss for words as he fumbled a response, "W-why don't you activate your beacon so that Lord Ainz or Lord Sammael can help us. This- ummm- dragon, seems here to negotiate considering its timid aura and its unusual appearance."

The Angel of Hails took note of the cracks that appeared on his brother's cold disposition, but dutifully nods his head and opened a [Message] spell towards the Warmaster.

.

.

Fortress City of E-Rantel

.

Ainz Ooal Gown stood in front of a mirror as he practice the gestures he would be using as he will be addressing the populace in regards to the newly established drainage and water delivery system. It was a wonderful piece of engineering whereas the sewers was bored deep underground where human waste, water and sewage can be pumped out into a man-made lagoon outside the city where it will dry itself out instead of mixing in with the river waters. He also opened the first medical school with attached hospital where the very few of the Kingdom's doctor was consolidated to offer additional training with modern health practices. Apart from his civic duty as the King, he also established the Military Academy where the brightest of his Kingdom whose inclination with warfare could come and learn. Additionally, aside from the standing human army that is sent to secure military outposts and integrated into the Undead Legion.

They were integrated to the Undead Legion to act as commanders to the individual units of undead so that it can effectively function as a unit instead of just swarming the enemy, which works most of the time, but of course, a good commander does not leave anything to chance. So, the Sorcerer King deemed it fit to have a regular standing army to offer flexibility to his standing forces.

Another thing that was launched was the Citizen Welfare Department.

A concept that was foreign to every noble that remained in the city that it baffled them to no end how an undead could care so much for the living. By order of His Majesty, each and every Noble family must designate a representative, be it the Head of the Family, the spouse, or any number of children to volunteer at the Department. The Welfare Department is divided into numerous sections that cater mostly to poverty, housing, and social indemnity. The first section which is poverty, used to be the largest at first until such time that poverty was finally addressed by giving each and everyone a job they could do within the Kingdom. Each and every worker was needed and no amount of untapped labor was wasted to address poverty. After construction of their homes was completed, ample farmland was given to each and every family however, they were forbidden to sell their farmlands to any citizen as this might compromise the food chain that was being established by the Sorcerer King. Additional jobs was generated when food production and raw material processing was introduced. Commercial buildings was introduced to stimulate trade and unemployment within the Sorcerer King's domain stood at 0% because there are just too many jobs to do right now.

The 2nd section which is housing was addressed by having the citizens work for their own houses. Since most of the Noble Families that have houses within the walled city were moved outside. The peasantry on the other hand was moved to a section of the city where it was originally planned to put them, by building large houses that caters to at least 2 to 3 families. They are arranged depending on where they are currently working at, for those that work outside of the city like farm work, mining, fishing and the like, they are put on the housing section of the city nearest the gate. Those that work in the industrial sector are put farthest from the gate and in the interior of the city itself, not just to cater to those that needs to get out of the city, but also to ensure that the travel time between their places of work is not compromised. Considering half of the population of E-Rantel had left it, there was plenty of space to begin with. Additionally, the Undead King has provided undead horses and carriage for the convenience of workers, a prototype public transport system, which is free since they were using undead was put in place and would soon be fully implemented as soon as all parameters have been researched through trial and error. Based on the last accurate census that was given to him by Albedo, it was noted that there are reportedly no beggars or panhandlers in the city and homelessness has been reduced to 0%, which Ainz and Sammael took great pleasure in learning about.

The 3rd section is the social indemnity, which at first baffled Ainz and Sammael to address, but the programs that they initiated in the beginning was now boring fruit. One of them were the numerous schools that were provided to combat illiteracy at the former Fortress city. Before the Sorcerer King stepped in, the illiteracy rate of children 5 to 12 years old was at 95%, an astounding number that was deemed unacceptable. As such, a strict policy of education was initiated not just with the children, but also for the parents as well. Mothers in particular are drilled hard by undead liches on the importance of learning with their children to ensure that the children have the support and assurance that if their parents are doing it, then why the hell were they not doing it too. In just a few months after implementation, adult illiteracy among the peasantry was expected to be reduced to 70%, and children's illiteracy should drop down to 55%. In fact, they were so adamant in its implementation that those who refused to be taught basic letters and arithmetic was punished depending on their resistance to learning. Once they were deemed satisfactory, they were tested to measure their aptitude and then given a monetary prize as compensation for their hard work, plus the chance to enter advanced learning schools. As mentioned, they were divided into three basic schools of learning, Commercial, Engineering and Military. With the children of the Kingdom now learning and planning for their future, they are given the thing that has separated humanity from all beasts. And that is purpose and education.

Additionally, that purpose is not limited to humans only, every demi-human under the territory of the Undead King was offered the same benefits.

And with reports trickling down into his desk everyday, it seems like more subjects would be integrated into their Kingdom. The Elven Kingdom of the Great Forest has been re-established again, while their smaller Kingdom or perhaps it is now a principality considering most of their citizens moved back to the Great Forest after the corrupted Treant was uprooted by the Warmaster is currently holding their war with the Theocracy in a stalemate. The impending inclusion of the Azerlisia Mountain range into the Kingdom would open trade from the Dwarven Kingdom into the Elven and so forth. As such, it is a win-win for everyone if the Trading House can open its doors on all neighboring nations to establish a more coherent trading practice and to ensure that information is passed down without interruption.

He was still gesturing and practicing his speech when a [Message] spell connected within his mind.

"Yes?"

"It's me Satoru-"

"-ah, what is it Youji?" during the course of the days, they have both agreed to ensure their own security. As such they would use their true name, especially when they are conversing with each other as they both agreed that their inherent level and magical resistances made them immune to such eavesdropping spell and the report that was initially given to them only applied if the caster of the [Message] spell was weaker than the one doing the eavesdropping.

"The Generals have liberated Feo Berkana, but they want to know what to do next."

"What about?"

"They encountered a problem that I did not prepare them to."

"What is it then?"

"Negotiations."

Ainz was puzzled, weren't his Generals all good negotiators. He even had the pleasure of working with one of the leading Generals there in the Dwarven Kingdom, which is Baraqiel if memory serves him right, "I-I thought your Generals can negotiate with anyone-"

"Let me rephrase that, my Generals need help in negotiations- with a dragon."

"You should have said that sooner," the Undead King sighed, he was actually surprised that a dragon wishes to negotiate, "I will send Aura with a-"

"AURA!?"

"Stop you Elf-con, I said I will be sending Aura to help with the negotiations. Can either of them open a [Gate] from where they are?"

"No need I can do it myself and-"

"-you will do no such thing, you are a commander and a good commander does not need to go into the front lines and negotiate. That's what negotiators are for anyways. Plus, you can't just leave the Baharuth Empire, I thought you currently have an audience with the Emperor in a few hours, it would be rude not to attend to that you know."

It was Sammael's turn to be stumped, "Whoever taught you military tactics and doctrine anyway?"

"Sun Tzu."

"Figures."

"So, like I said have your General open a [Gate] towards the Fortress in E-Rantel and I will send Aura through."

"Your wish will be done Satoru-sama!"

And the spell terminated, Ainz was left there with his mouth open. He finds that his old friend was actually an insufferable teaser and would relentlessly rib at him for even the tiniest of details. But then again, that is reserved only for their private conversations and-

Wait, that came out wrong.

The Sorcerer King sighed, he was getting side-tracked and he needed to contact Aura at once. So, he puts his bony hand on his head and opened another [Message] spell.

"Aura, come to me. At once."

.

.

Feo Berkana - Azerlisia Mountains

.

Hejinmal fidgeted nervously as the two statues, garbed in full plate armor and wings sprouting from their back stood without moving in front of him. Aside from introducing themselves as Baraqiel and Bardiel they haven't spoken anything since after that. He also tried scanning the grounds and tried to see if it was just the two of them and what he saw almost floored him. From beyond the gate and the bridge where it led to the city, there was a mass of green and black soldiers. It was as far as his draconian eyes can see, flags and weapons waiting for the army to attack and slay them all. But that was not the thing that made him afraid and seriously doubted the ability of his father nor anyone from his family to prevail against these beings.

By race and blood he was a dragon, there was no denying the instincts of his blood that clamors for anything that is luxurious. Gold, precious metals and jewels, articles of great worth and value, armor and weapons that command such high prices, enchanted and runed it does not matter. Now the armor and weapons used by these two, are by no means just expensive, by his draconic sight they were glittering and was a treasure beyond what he had ever seen before. And he had seen and felt his fair share of treasure considering his father was a Dragon Lord. But his father's hoard was incomparable to the one set these beings are wearing and to think there were two of them. But Hejinmal knew it was not the items that was the most fearsome of these two, the inherent smell of something foreign and primal gave him a fear a dragon should not be having.

Finally a black ovoid shape appeared behind them, it roiled malevolently at first then finally it stayed and became constant. Out step a single dark elf child with blonde hair and 2 heterochromic eyes. Hejinmal also took note of the extremely valuable dress the child was wearing, but he considered the chances of these 3 beings beyond their capability to deal with and so he held his tongue and his greed for it.

"Hi there!" she greeted enthusiastically at the two Generals who, he though at least, bowed genially back at her.

"I am glad you are here Lady Aura, may I present Hejinmal, eldest son of the Frost Dragon Lord who used to rule this mountain."

The choice of words did not escape Hejinmal, they were already using the past tense of his father's rule in this mountain. Now, he was not the most combat oriented of his siblings, nor was he the most powerful, but a sharp instinct coupled with a keen mind was equally important. Most importantly when a threat, such as these 3 beings suddenly waltzed into a den of dragons leaving their standing army behind them. He felt the stare of the dark elf child and a sudden fear gripped him as Aura unleashed her power at him. As most animals when gripped with a threatening situation, it was usually either fight or flight, but he chose the 3rd choice. The shame of his pee pooled under his leg as his bladder went uncontrollably loose and his mind blanked at the terror that the little dark elf unleashed towards him.

"Umm... did you just pee?" Aura looked disgusted at him as she shook her head disapprovingly, "It looks like I need to discipline you. Peeing in front of your mistress is unsightly and makes me lose confidence in my ability as a trainer."

"Forgive me My Lady," Hejinmal's head rested on the ground as he closed his eyes as he tried to look meek towards his new mistress, "Please forgive me, this is all very new to me."

"That's all right," the dark elf breathed to her new pet and he somewhat calmed down, "Now, tell me about the other dragons inside this Palace."

.

The Frost Dragon Lord rested on top of his gold hoard as his three wives were gathered around him, his eldest son Torangealit, came to him as he felt Aura pulsed her power nearby. Unlike his brother who was easily cowed by Aura, the other dragons beside their Lord was emboldened by his presence. So, they were not aware of the calamity that was approaching them from outside.

"Father, I believe the 'dragon pig' is dead."

Olasird'arc sighed as he actually felt nothing at that point for his portly son, "Did you see his corpse?"

"No-" the younger dragon answered hesitantly, "But the force of the magic that was recently unleashed seemed much too powerful for Hejinmal to-"

"Enough, you are a Frost Dragon, act as one."

Torangealit seemed ready to argue more, but all dragons stopped as they caught the scent of their intruder. They waited as they saw his portly son walking towards them carrying persons on his back. Blood rushed immediately to the Dragon Lord's head in anger as his wayward son decided to degrade himself further by being used as a pack mule to be led around and utilized as a beast of burden. But he waited until his 'son' stood in front of them and he lets the invaders come down from his back. His enraged eyes did not escape his wives and they gave him ample space. Even his eldest son, Toreangalit, felt it prudent to let their father handle this.

"Greetings! Father and Mother, these are the representatives of the Sorcerer Kingdom. They have decreed that the whole mountain would be under their protectorate and would put us dragons under the fold."

The silence was so thick and absolute one can almost hear each other's breath. It stretched for a full minute until the Frost Dragon Lord's fury exploded as he tackled his portly son to the ground and gripped his supple neck with his powerful claws.

"YOU are a disgrace to the blood of dragons!" he screamed at Hejinmal as the younger of the two struggled to get free, the violence was expected by everyone yet none of the onlookers moved from where they stood, "You come back here and carried them into your back, like a domesticated pack animal, and then you spout such nonsense as them ruling over us? You have truly lost your mind, I ought to finish you off right now!"

"I would not do that if I were you."

The fury that the Dragon Lord bored through his son was redirected to the dark elf child and the two companions with her.

"You, elf, what manner of magic did you use to cow an already cowardly dragon?"

Aura smiled and playfully lolled her head, "Nothing you can understand, now I would certainly appreciate it if you would be so kind to release my pet. He is a one of a kind dragon and I would be so hard-pressed to find another like him. And if you would please also kneel in the name of the Sorcerer King and the Warmaster, then everything should be fine."

The Dragon Lord released Hejinmal and faced Aura fully, he drew to his full height and let cold vapor escape from his open maw. He was shaking in anger and bottled up rage that his three wives and his eldest son took a step back as their father faced the dark elf alone.

"Child, did you just order me to kneel?"

"Yes, you overgrown lizard, as mentioned by my pet. All beings are offered to join the Sorcerer Kingdom, refusal to do so would only result in your death."

Olasird'arc gave a rumbling laugh as he looked down at the dark elf child, such impertinence for a child is truly astounding. But as his draconic sight focused on her, the true worth of their armor and dress filled his dragon blood with desire beyond what his dragon hard could ever hope to accomplish.

"You amuse me child and for that I am willing to let slide what you just said, in exchange, for your dresses and the armor of your two companions," the Dragon Lord gave a rumbling roar to emphasized what he just said, "Do it quickly and I might even let you take Hejinmal with you just to rid us of his presence."

A dark look descended on the three invaders as they were ordered to surrender their garments, "No," Aura answered, "You have no right to even touch a single garment or armor that we have, our creators made these for us. And to even sully it with such an ugly dragon such as yourself, then I cannot allow this. We may need to bring you back to us in chains if you continue to resist us."

It was the last straw, the Dragon Lord took in a breathe of air and blasted Aura with his [Freezing Breath], the other dragons with them scrambled from their enraged Patriarch as he poured every ounce of his power towards the enemy. As the spell abated, a veritable wall of ice covered where the denizens of Nazarick used to stand. Satisfied at their destruction, he would wait until the ice melted and extract the precious articles and items he smelled awhile ago and add it to his growing hoard-

CRACK

The ice shattered like a million mirrors cracking at the same time, all other dragons rushed to the side as they saw the silver armored one holding a staff in front of him and where they stood was a solid wall of fire and brimstone. As with the battle with the Elf King, with Aura fighting with Baraqiel once again, it was no question on who would act as defense and who would go on the offensive.

"6th-Tier Magic: [Wall of Flame]" the 7th Angel's defensive spell enveloped their area completely, thawing and blocking the spell hurled at them by the Dragon Lord.

From behind Baraqiel, the 3rd Angel Bardiel launched himself up and with practiced ease and dexterity, pulled his weapon from his belt, swung it back and launched the business end towards the Dragon Lord.

The 3rd Angel's weapon was known as the Scourge of the Titans, a Legendary-class weapon whose lore was that it was the weapon that was used by the Greek Gods to imprison the Titans after the fall of Chronos. Imbued with lightning magic, it sunders everything and anything, it could even damage and destroy weapons of the same class, provided some parameters are met. The end of the scourge whip ends with three prongs that ended with blades. As Bardiel twisted his body with extreme dexterity, the tip of the weapon lashed out and struck the Dragon Lord on his shoulder, it continued its path towards the midriff then past the dragons torso and out to the lower left hip. It was over in a flash of a lightning as the Frost Dragon Lord lay dead on the cold stone floor. His body bisected from his upper left shoulder, to his chest, then to his midriff, then finally past his lower hip. The passing of the weapon cauterized the wound as Hejinmal and his family looked shocked beyond words at the way this Angel dispatched their Patriarch with ease.

Aura stepped behind Baraqiel and smiled sweetly.

"Anyone else?"

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To be continued... into the next chapter.

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The Slane Theocracy was a theocratic government ruled by 6 Cardinals. Each Cardinal represents one of the six Major Gods that comprise of the faith of Slane, thus, with the Pontifex as the head, power is further shared with the 6 Cardinals that handle a specific God. In order they are:

The Cardinal of Fire handles the Military and Interior Security of the nation.

The Cardinal of Water handles all manner of infrastructure, be it either religious, civil, commercial, or military.

The Cardinal of Wind handles all things regarding food, water, commerce and industry

The Cardinal of Earth handles the Intelligence and Special Arms Division or the numerous Scriptures of the Theocracy.

The Cardinal of Light checks the adherence of the numerous arms of government to their teaching.

The Cardinal of Darkness counter-checks such adherence and counter-audits every aspect of government.

That is why it is no wonder that Raymond Zarg Lauransan and Ginedine Delan Guelfi, Cardinals of Earth and Water respectively sat across their colleague for a spot of lunch. The Cardinal of Wind, Dominic Ihre Partouche munches on some salad greens as the other two ate their own meals as well. It was not uncommon for Cardinals to meet like this on their own home. In fact, it was expected considering their high offices demanded that they cooperate with each other fully, especially on matters concerning the Theocracy.

"How's the fish?" the Wind Cardinal asked upon which Ginedine answered truthfully, "Well, it is the same fish caught in the same river that runs near one of the towns from where we are sitting at. I suppose it still taste like fish, but its different in a way."

"A good different?"

The oldest of the 3 shrugged his shoulders as he continued eating, being the youngest in the table and also being the most impatient one, Raymond opened his mouth and asked, "I do not believe we are merely here to ask about the weather and end in pointless chatter Cardinal Dominic. You wished to discuss something with us, now I for one am not surprised that you would resent me a little considering the policy I have enacted upon retired a whole Scripture down. But I have already stated my case-"

"And I support you in it," Dominic took a sip of wine and continued, "As a statesman, we must look on the long-term benefit of our endeavors and its effect on our constituent. Now, since you have asked me already of the reason why I brought you two here. I would like to know what your thoughts are about the recent policies enacted by the Pontifex about the errant Kingdom that sprouted near us."

It was Ginedine who spoke next, "It is certainly concerning about this undead and the power he holds over his subjects. Based on the information gathered by the commission that was sent to verify information from Nigun's wake, it could be possible that the same undead creature that he encountered could be the same Undead King that now makes E-Rantel his home. Additionally, the Angel that decimated the Black Scripture was the exact one that is ruling together with the undead. Now, let me lay out to you both the conundrum that I have deduced. We sent Nigun to assassinate the Warrior-Captain in order to weaken the Re-Estize Kingdom however, he has survived with the help of the unknown sorcerer which we suspect is the Undead King, and has even helped consolidate the power of the Royal Crown on their capital with numerous witnesses and paper documentation."

"That foolish noble's son," Raymond shook his head and sighed, "He was highly recommended by Berenice to be a competent soldier, but I did not know he was such a foolish human being. Battle doctrine dictates all paper writings are to be disposed of, so why in the world did he have the scroll with him."

Dominic shrugged his shoulders and sighed, "Our current state of readiness is compromised, without the Sunlight Scripture our 'reach' has certainly shortened. With only half of the Black Scripture somewhat functioning, our offensive capability has certainly fallen below what is acceptable. And the Pontifex wishes us to wait until such time that this thing blows over."

"What are you saying?"

"You know what I am saying Ginedine, it is not a simple matter that we have suffered a systematic attack against us," the Cardinal of Wind shook his head, "We have grown complacent and comfortable in the seats we have secured with ourselves. We have forgotten that Gods could still be walking among this world, beings more powerful than we could ever imagine them to be."

The addressed Cardinal was silent, "To tell you the truth, I mentioned to the Pontifex that since we are in this sorry state in terms of our military prowess. That we would be wise to reach out to the other nations and gauge what their feelings are against the Sorcerer Kingdom."

"And?"

It was Raymond who answered, "With the depletion of our forces, it was deemed prudent to send only single agents for both the Clearwater and Windflower Scriptures to corroborate said story. To tel you the truth, its true, for the most part."

"What do you mean?"

The Cardinal of Earth chewed on his food and said, "The reports are coming in about how peaceful it is inside the Sorcerer Kingdom. Not one death has occurred after the occupation, one of our agents actually was given work and the projects of that Undead is simply mind-boggling to say the least. Aside from securing living space for all his 'living citizens', all undead creatures are put to work. The human forces work all through the day on every infrastructure project that the Sorcerer King has, at night the undead continue the work including the mines and agriculture. Humans are there to supervise the undead, their argument is that since those that are alive can still think in an abstract manner then they are given command of the undead for manual labor. The experiments that the Baharuth Empire and our own Cardinal of Darkness tried to achieve, was made overnight by this sentient undead lich."

"That would go a long way in regards to a nation's food supply?" Dominic looked down on his plate in contemplation, "The food output would double considering your workforce does not rest, nor does it stop. Industry would not be hampered by insufficient supplies and as mentioned, infrastructure could be easily built in a constant stream of raw materials. It is astounding then."

"Yes, that is why it is a mystery then why we have not reached out yet to this Sorcerer King," Ginedine shook his head, "We are missing on this information and that is a great disservice to the Gods and our vows to safeguard the prosperity of the people."

"What can we do?"

"The Pontifex does not listen, he is hard-headed and adamant about the rigid teachings of the Theocracy. A teaching that should we antagonize the Sorcerer Kingdom, even in a way we did not intend to, and for that I fear for the survival of our nation."

Raymond looked to Ginedine and sighed, "What do you propose we do then?"

Cardinal Raymond gave a small smile as he said, "We need to change the status quo, we need a change in leadership."

"Remove the Pontifex?" the Cardinal of Earth looked scandalized, "Are you mad?"

"No, he is not," it was the Cardinal of Water who spoke, the eldest of the Cardinal was not only intelligent, but he was also cunning. And he immediately understood the reason why he and Raymond now share lunch with Dominic on the safety of his home, "Think about it Raymond. We are two out of maybe three or four Cardinals who have outspoken that the steps taken by the Pontifex is not enough. I was against the current liquidation of the Sunlight Scripture, and I was also against the recent dismissal of Captain Nigun, while you Raymond-"

"-I was actually against the usage of the Holocaust Scripture against the Elven Kingdom, it has come to my attention that a large power vacuum has happened there and it has definitely changed the status of the front line," the Cardinal of Earth shook his head, "I have spoken about it in council however, the Cardinal of Fire wishes to commit more forces and the Holocaust Scripture. As I have mentioned, our recent depletion of forces has forced me to reactivate retired members of the Black Scripture, now they want us to squander and commit another one of our special forces in the fight to the Elven Kingdom."

"Do not judge Berenice so harshly, her confidence on the strength of the Holocaust Scripture stems from her being a former Captain of said forces," Ginedine took another sip of wine and sighed, "It would be wise and prudent if we can at least consolidate and focus on our internal security first before venturing out again. Additionally, do we not have any information about our missing men?"

Dominic kept silent, his recent meeting with the Sorcerer King sealed the deal for him, "Do any of you have information from E-Rantel that came from the Clearwater or the Windflower Scripture?"

"Unfortunately, our agents are still on their way to the Baharuth Empire to check if any of our station chief might have been compromised, that goes with the Re-Estize Kingdom as well. With the recent exodus of the refugees from the Undead City as people used to call it nowadays, it might be better if we can wait for communication from them."

"Its not enough, our movements are so slow, while our enemies gain ground, humanity is on the brink of destruction," the Cardinal of Wind sighed, "It would be impossible to reach other nations now and broker an alliance against this undead. Plus, the policies of the current Pontifex was never designed to counter the imbalance of losing a Scripture and paralyzing our most powerful God-kins. We really need a change in the status quo, or a change in leadership."

All manner of speaking hushed until Ginedine broke the thick silence with a statement said in matter of fact tone, "That is treason my friend."

"It is treason if an armed revolt or a usurpation of authority has been compelled from the speaker. As such, it is only my personal views that I am saying to you, it is not my personal wish to harm the Pontifex, nor to undermine his authority," Dominic said clearly, he knew he was treading in thin ice, but he would need to be Pontifex for the future he saw, would hopefully not come to pass.

"But to force a change in leadership, it has not been done for a long time now," Raymond kept silent as Ginedine prodded the Cardinal of Wind again, "As tradition dictates, a Pontifex is elected once his or her predecessor has died. If an impasse or a tie has been reached by the Cardinals, then the citizens of the Theocracy can elect anyone from the ranks of the six Cardinals. Unless-"

Raymond's brow furrowed, "Unless?"

"Unless people clamored for the resignation of the Pontifex, if he is deemed ineffective to suppress and safeguard the future of humanity."

Dominic burped softly as he concluded his lunch, "My fellow Cardinals, I am not endorsing anything, nor am I implying anything. I merely wish to know your feelings because I too have had some reservations about the way our Pontifex is currently handling the situation. I can assure you that our conversation today will not leave this room further, on that end would anyone care for an after lunch puff?"

"Oh yes please," servants cleared the table as coffee was poured for the Cardinals, Raymond and Dominic took out smoking pipes and lighted their own ends, "Dominic, if in case you would be Pontifex. What would you do?"

"Do I have your word that this is only in the context of the conversation and not because we are planning anything to undermine the Pontifex?"

Ginedine held up his open right palm, "I swear it, it is between hushed conversations among friends."

The Cardinal of Wind took a long drag of tobacco from his pipe and said, "I do not know what specific thing I will do to combat this, but we must change for the Theocracy to survive. The Pontifex mentioned the 'Advent of the Gods' and I have a suspicion that the Sorcerer King is a being comparable to Surshana-sama himself."

"A God-Player?"

Dominic nodded, "And this sentient Angels that have accompanied him, including the one that brought down the Black Scripture so easily. Alah Alaf-sama was noted as a being that could summon sentient Angels, as such I have come to the conclusion that 'Gods' have come down once more to our lands. And if the policies of the Pontifex right now does not align with these 'Gods', then we are probably facing the destruction of the Theocracy as it is."

The three Cardinals spoke no more, yet the words of Nigun rang clearly within Dominic's mind.

'Corruption, stagnation, and inaction. Such things discussed in whispered conversation is the way for the seeds of Heresy to be sown.

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(A/N: And... here I GO AGAIN!)

Operation: Reinhard and Operation: Gleiwitz are both historical operations during World War II. You will find them both apt with what is going on already.

Additionally, so sorry for the long wait. But this quarantine is making me focus on writing again, possibly, one good thing that came out of this fiasco.

Also, I have updated and re-written Chapter 5.

Cheers,

Scarabeye3000