Heaven or Hell

by Scarabeye3000

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

20. A New Power

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

Title: Heaven or Hell

Chapter 20 - A New Power

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Forest of Tob

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4 pairs of eyes watched as 8 wagons containing the expeditionary force of the Baharuth Empire kept a steady direction towards the borders of the Sorcerer Kingdom. Though unrecognized by the surrounding Kingdoms, none can deny the fact that even though it is a fairly new nation, its military might is none to be scoffed at. Legendary undead that could be summoned at a whim plus legions and legions of undead soldier that make up the army of Ainz Ooal Gown and its human auxiliary. Not to mention the inhuman speed and unknown overall size and strength of the red army commanded by the Archangel with the inverted wing. Thus, it is with such folly that one should challenge an enemy such as this. Yet, it is for the same reason that the 8 wagons commissioned by the Baharuth Empire carried no such heraldry as they moved with haste towards the 'unknown dungeon' that was revealed to Fluder.

1 of the wagons carried Fluder and the batallion commander for the Knights that would be designated as camp commander, another was occupied by the Worker group 'Tenmu', one carried the whole group of 'Heavy Masher' all 14 members including Gringham, 'Dragon Hunt' and 'Kralgra' followed from another, while 'Darkness' , 'Kaiten' and 'Screaming Whip' brought up the last of the specialized group of Adventurers and Workers. The 3 other wagons carried the rest of the soldiers, their camping gear, including portable smithing gear to repair any damages they might encounter and enough provisions for a 5 month expedition that mostly consists of grain and other dry goods for their camp. The day was crisp and was quite a pleasant day, one could even mistake such an expedition for a merchant caravan, or a group of men going out for a picnic, but the 4 pairs of eyes that followed their movements could not be fooled so easily. The Forest of Tob has been their ancestral lands from the beginning of time, their race had a natural affinity for the forest and anything that has life, thus, the Elven rangers were actually strengthened within the protection of the ancient trees. As such, while the 3 elf rangers followed from afar, 1 of them made its way back to the rebuilt city of the Elves.

From the ashes of the 'Cursed Tree' there was nothing but destruction, sorrow and heartbreak. Yet the Gods saw fit to rebuild in that place, with their might and magic they uprooted the cursed tree and have sprouted a benevolent one in its place, a great tree they called 'Yggdrasil Mk2' a tree never before seen by anyone in this world. The tree was indeed magical, for it grew quickly and easily spreads its wide arms to shade the Elven civilization who had rebuilt their city under its protection. With help from the 'Twin Monarchs', blessed be the Sun and Moon for Lord Mare and Lady Aura with their benevolence, the Elves had enjoyed a peace and stability they have not thought possible at all.

As such, this intrusion into the lands that is under the protection of the Undead Majesty cannot be simply overlooked, especially since their general direction is directly going towards the location of the forbidden area where it is rumored the Gods have taken as their residence.

The ranger bit his lip as he lead his troops forward through the shadows of the thick forest, "Heads will roll for this."

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The expeditionary force reached the farthest road that is controlled by the Sorcerer Kingdom, scouts reported that the Undead King had begun construction of a more reliable road that would linked all outlying villages towards E-Rantel. Reports of groups of undead cavalry patrolling the roads non-stop have also reached their ears and they deemed it prudent to veer off the main road and head for their designated area. From afar, a number of hills seemed to materialize from the horizon as all members of the expedition turned to take a look at the large number of hills that seemed to stand out like a sore thumb from the wide grass plains.

Ironically, the same reasoning that Momonga and Sammael thought would camouflage the Great Tomb was also the same reason that it was noticed.

Being the only proverbial 'high ground' in a sea of grassy plains, a lost person or a scout would go and crest a hill to ensure that they could get an accurate bearing on their direction of travel. So, instead of being hidden, its qualities became its weak point and what caused it to attract attention the most. Nevertheless, the expedition arrived at the group of hills and immediately Fluder disembarked from his carriage with the agility and dexterity of a 20 year old man.

"My Lord Fluder," he stopped walking as the battalion commander called out to him, "Shall we break camp first before exploring?"

"Ah!" as if waking up from a daze, the old man tried to reel in his excitement, "Yes, yes of course. Call out some escorts and let us see where we can pitch our tents for the day."

"As you command Lord Paradyne. Lieutenant Hasufel!" the commander called his adjutant and said, "Call out those Workers and have them escort Lord Paradyne, he wishes to do a little scouting himself."

The soldier saluted and ran back towards one of the carriages, in a few moments the members of 'Dragon Hunt' led by Parpatra was walking alongside the Tri-Arts Magic Caster.

The other carriages also disembarked their passengers as the various 'worker' groups fanned out and began scouting the group of hills. The legitimate adventurers and soldiers all remained at the carriage as a vanguard in case they get attacked. Momon also stepped out of the grassy plains and looked at the people gathering and scouting about their home, beside him stood Nabe who looked very irritated at the numerous pests now buzzing around the sacred ground for the denizens of the Great Tomb. By mid-day they have chosen to put the camp in the middle of two hills near where they arrived, guards were stationed on the top of the outlying hills to look out for any enemies as Fluder and the rest of 'Dragon Hunt' found their target ruins. They reconvened at the now erected command tent as their cartographers began lining a rough estimate of the Great Tomb. Military engineers also began surveying the area and taking measurements as the leader of every Worker group and Fluder talked while partaking in lunch.

"Lord Paradyne when would you like to do a preliminary scouting of the ruins?"

"We can do the preliminary scouting in the afternoon, I would certainly like to delve in right away, but our scouts and rogues would no doubt find traps and pitfalls in the area itself," Fluder points to the only hill that had a flat top and was satisfied at the rudimentary map made with the combined efforts of the architects and scouts, "As you can see, the main building in the center of the ruins looked to be made of marble and quite ancient. Its use seemed to be a graveyard of sorts since there were a few lesser sized mausoleums on the perimeter. Additionally, there are many small caves and pathways inside the hills surrounding the main building. There could be other graves that hold history in them, which I would greatly pay a premium for scrolls and other manner of document. Any scrap of information that you can see that would give us an inkling of the owner of such a magnificent tomb. Truly the ones who built such an edifice can only be called Gods of humanity."

Fluder then turned to Momon with a flushed expression on his wizened face as if the words he just said are praises towards him.

'Don't look at me like that old man!' Momon or Ainz did not meet his eyes, instead he looked down and gave the image of a man deep in his contemplation.

"Pardon my Lord Paradyne, how should we divide the spoils?"

At that question Ainz finally looked up and interjected, "If you would be so kind to amuse me with a question, have you ever wondered why Lord Paradyne was insistent of the secrecy of this mission? Why he risked going to such a dangerous place in the first place?"

"Money."

"Gold."

"Treasure."

"Knowledge?"

Ainz perked up at that, "Who said that?"

The leader of 'Kaiten' raised his hand, "There are more to life than just treasure and gold you know, sometimes knowing what is and how it worked is already something to looked forward to and worth attaining."

"Quit dreaming! That's bullshit," the leader of 'Kralgra' countered, "You can't buy stuff and things with just knowledge, you need gold."

"Money makes the world go round."

"Aye!"

"Master Momon asked what is the motivation of our client to risk such an adventure to himself and to the Empire, indirectly he is asking for our motivation on joining this endeavor," Yari, the somewhat young leader of 'Kaiten' did not back down from the jeers of the other Workers, "As for me, the knowledge and history is my greatest motivation. Being of assistance to the Tri-Arts Magic caster is another bonus to it, gold is last in my mind."

"That's because you are an idiot," Erya pointed out.

"And you are a perverted masochistic son of a bitch who can only torture girls!" Yari retorted which prompted the silver haired man to stand up and grip the hilt of his sword, the spear of the 'Kaiten' leader was not too far from him and was instantly on his hands.

"Frak you!" a small glint of metal as the sword was almost pulled out of the scabbard.

Stepping back to give space, the spear was aimed against his enemy, "FraCK you back!"

A wave of power emanated from Fluder and the two bickering men suddenly stopped in their tracks, no words were said yet the point was made across the table.

ENOUGH

For a human sorcerer Ainz was not disappointed with Fluder and his palpable display of power. He welcomed it as he did not want to even interject on what his question triggered around the table. Additionally, it somewhat brought him comfort that not all people are driven by greed, there are still pockets of good faith and honest learning in this New World. Imperceptibly he gave a small nod towards no one in particular, having already decided on what step they should take next.

Fluder caught it though and said, "It is good to know that each and everyone of you are motivated by your own interest, as such I would expect you to vigorously work in scouting the outlying Tombs, additionally, I will be delving inside the Great Tomb tomorrow after your preliminary scouting of the area. All treasures that are found must be surrendered first for proper identification and recording before disbursement can be given to the finders. Also, any scrolls or written text or clay tablet must be protected at all costs, we pay a premium for any intact documents based on its content and quantity."

He clapped his hands and stood up, "Gentlemen, I expect you all to be done before nightfall as the recording could very well take up the whole night."

The various leaders of the Workers walked outside of the tent, the leader of Tenmu and Kaiten taking quite a distance from each other. Fluder was left alone inside the tent as he took a goblet of wine and drank half of it at once.

"Tomorrow, it truly begins."

He walked over to his things and took out the gift that was bestowed to him by Lord Sammael. The gnarled staff thrummed with power as he run his hands over the wooden surface. Made from the bark of one of the '13 Demon Lords' the cursed treant named Zy'tl Q'ae who was subjugated by the Warmaster himself, they purified the pieces of wood that was cut off from the body of their enemy and fashioned a staff for him. It was a prototype item that sported three runes, one for magic amplification, one for enhanced passive defense and another for item durability. The Supreme Beings wanted him to use that when he finally delved inside the 1st Floor himself. Just by holding and channeling a portion of his magic into it the runes glowed an eerie red and he could immediately feel that any spells he would chant would be exponentially powerful already. If only he could just use this, test out its power in full, its untapped potential, the abyss of magic could be attained at last.

"-the abyss... the abyss of magic."

His back was on the opening of the tent as he stopped cold and then turned behind him as a whisper seemed to linger in his ear. Goosebumps raised from his arms as something seemed to take a hold of him a while ago. He dismissed it as he looked down at his staff and saw that the runes had now stopped glowing.

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Momon or Ainz walked over to the top of a nearby hill as he surveyed the area of the Great Tomb, ironic isn't it that he would be hired to guard the expedition that would try to raid their home. Well, on a positive note, they could test the defenses on a group of skilled individuals that this New World has to offer since no one had managed to challenge their forces, nor was there any such force that could effectively counter them. Except the Slane Theocracy, the Dragon Lords, or unknown Players that had kept themselves hidden, or others that would indubitably arrive soon or could probably have been here already. As such, he worried about their status and affair, would their efforts be truly enough to safeguard the Tomb? To keep safe the treasures within, each and every family member that was made by his friends.

Are the two of them enough and capable of keeping them safe?

"We'll find out soon enough."

A lone scout approached him from behind as the soldier said, "My Lord Momon, Captain Harod requests your presence."

They walked back towards the camp as he noted the soldiers setting up camp, others breaking open tents, setting up the field kitchen, getting the bonfires going. Just the normal routine of soldiers as they prepare to bed down for the night, he also spied Narberal quickly pitching their tent as the men took stolen glances at the beautiful woman who was handy with a tent. Captain Harod was inside his command tent as the scout opened the flap for him as Momon stepped inside, the man was poring over some maps as he took a swig of a strong hot drink probably tea on a teacup.

"You have need of me?"

"Yes, please sit down Master Momon, help yourself to some tea."

His armor creaking, he sat himself down on one of the chairs as the battalion commander finally shook his head and sat down across from him deep in thought

"I must decline for I am already looking forward to dinner, I was assessing the location of our camp awhile ago and while I do understand that it is necessary to be near our target area," Ainz rubbed his chin a bit for effect as the Captain's reverie was finally broken, "I cannot help but dismiss our vulnerability in between these hills. Call me cautious and a worry-wart, but I cannot shake this feeling of apprehension."

Captain Harod nods his head, "Nor I Master Momon however, I must yield to the Court Magician's request. Compared to the surrounding plains which is a flat grassland, the hills offer a semblance of camouflage from a distant observer. We just have to keep a constant watch on the top of the hills to ensure that no one approaches us from any sides."

"It is still risky."

"Going here is already risky," the Captain sighed, "I have made sure that my concerns were heard by the Emperor, but the old man does not want to yield. He said he wanted an expedition that would catalogue a tomb he had recently discovered from the archives. But therein lies the problem Master Momon."

"Why do you say that?"

"I have not seen, nor heard of any writing depicting a Tomb here in this area," the Captain took another swig of his hot tea, "You must understand our Empire has sent numerous scouts towards E-Rantel. Looking for weak points, roads, pathways that can be exploited by an army on the move."

He then took a menagerie of papers and passed it towards Momon, "But there have been no reports of a group of hills in this area of the great plains for the last 50 years. It was as if some magic conjured up these hills and now here we are."

'Well, we have Mare to thank for that' Momon nods his head, "What is your point Captain?"

"You are a powerful individual, if worse comes to worst, would you be able to assure me that you can at least take back Lord Fluder safely to the Empire?"

"He is already a powerful individual, what would he need me for?"

"Indeed he is, but he is also old and quite excitable as you no doubt have seen," the Captain's eyes softened, "Aside from being at least 1/3rd of the military might of the Empire, he is a symbol of strength and power for the Empire. With his loss, I am afraid that the neighboring Kingdoms would try to subjugate the Empire and the projects of our good Emperor would be for naught."

Momon then stood up and puts his hand forward, "I'll do my best."

Captain Harod also stood up, he clasped the armored hand and shook it, "You have my thanks."

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Dinnertime came and went as the preliminary scouting of the surrounding tombs and caves yielded no such treasures. The leader of Dragon Hunt, Parpatra, concluded that the other Tombs and caves were perhaps decoys to hide the fact that the grandiose facade of the Great Tomb of Nazarick was the real entrance to the crypts. Another idea that popped up was that perhaps the previous empty tombs and caves were already looted to begin with considering there were numerous boot prints on the ground and their were signs of recent movement. There were a lot of skeletons on one of the tombs and they dared not move it considering they could be the remains of previous adventurers or grave robbers that met its end to a trap that finally ended their life.

Additionally, the scouts and rogues with them were surprised at the number of traps within the area of the main tomb.

2 members of Heavy Masher were wounded when they tried to explore one of the side tombs of the main target area. It looked to have had at least 1 floor below and would be fairly easy to explore except that the insane amount of traps hindered them at every step. Every doorway, every corridor, every object seemed to be designed to torment their every move. The most noteworthy were the most simple ones that were designed to be overlooked, there was one time that their scout was dismantling a crossbow trap that was triggered by passing through a doorway and stepping on a rigged tile, as the scout worked to disable the trap one of their numbers saw a group of barrels that had accumulated a large amount of dust and dirt. Curiosity got the better of him and he took one barrel that was lying on its side and carelessly set it upright. Unbeknownst to them, there were 2 canister inside the barrel that was connected by a glass funnel.

One canister hidden inside the barrel carried vinegar while the other carried baking soda.

When the barrel was stood upright the two inert chemicals were suddenly mixed and a concussive explosion threw the unwitting member of Heavy Masher against the wall while the other unarmored members were peppered with flying splinters of wood and glass from the barrel. Not to mention the noxious odor of mixed vinegar and baking soda made even the most stalwart warriors cry like a babe. Though with such sufferings they were able to retrieve a few articles of gold that was strategically placed with the orders of the Supreme Beings. The group of Igvarga was not so lucky and merely found a few articles of high quality cloth and gems, while Kaiten explored the outlying tombs and found numerous passageways deeper into the earth. However, they dared not explore it in fear of encountering something they were not capable of handling, plus the people they're working with right now, especially Tenmu and Kralgra were not particularly trustworthy. They didn't found any treasure, so they bedded down as well for the night, gathering strength for the true test of their mettle.

If the events of the day were any indication of the quality of this place, then they would certainly be in for a surprise.

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After licking their wounds and resting for the night, all Worker groups were at full strength to tackle the main Tomb for the whole day. Fluder stepped out of his personal tent, he brought no personal assistants nor any acolytes to attend to him. Instead, he left them all behind to tend the Magic Academy while he explored one facade of his secret master's domain. With the runed staff in one hand acting as a walking stick, his black and white grimoires dangling on chains beside him, walked with a purpose as the various leaders of the Worker group gathered with him to begin the expedition in earnest. Leaving the Adventurer's to guard the main camp and supplement security provided by the Empire's Knights, they entered the 1st Floor of the Great Tomb without being harassed as Momon or Ainz felt a force of magic that expanded from the main building outwards like a sound wave.

'So, the Tomb has detected the intrusion,' Momon turned to Nabe who also looked back at him as the other people all around them were oblivious of the energy surge that was released by the Tomb, 'It sent out a wave to nullify any teleportation magic, I thought I told Demiurge to turn off all magic and advance defenses.'

Quickly he puts two finger on his head and casts his [Message] spell, ["Demiurge? I thought I told everyone to disable the magical and advanced traps and defense systems of the Tomb?"]

["Pardon my incompetence my Lord, but I did turn it off. The Tomb seemed to have responded to the intrusion on its own."]

This revelation intrigued Ainz, was the Tomb perhaps responding like a dungeon back in Yggdrasil. Although he felt that a non-teleportation area magic was casts, he didn't felt that he was affected by it. Perhaps because he is a denizen of the Tomb and it recognizes him as its Master, additionally, none of the people her felt any different. Maybe it would be detectable only for the people that could wield magic, or understand its skeins and fate. Ainz gave an appreciative hum, it was an interesting thought if nothing else.

["It seems that you are correct, the Tomb has responded in the most basic of its defenses only. Perhaps it felt that the guards are more than enough and merely wish that no one truly escapes. In any case, keep a sharp eye on the old man would you please Demiurge?"]

["My Lord, I serve at your pleasure."] and he cuts off the connection to the Arch-devil.

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Fluder's eyes twinkled as he looked at the large marble building that was actually the entrance to the realm of the Gods. Initial scouting and measurements of the previous day revealed that the Great Tomb's size was estimated to being 200-230 meters wide in all four directions in a complete circle. Further divided by sections or rings in between of ruined pillars and stone works. The main grounds was enclosed in 6-meter high wall that surrounded the entirety of the tomb, with only one visible entrance, a second entrance seemed to have been sealed shut by the collapsing wall of earth that was deliberately hiding it. Inside the perimiter were numerous tombstones, ancient and vague, in differing language of the Old World with no obvious patterns or puzzles in them as it was simply all for aesthetic reasons when they were made. Varying statues of goddesses and angels dotted around the tomb, some of which could have been mistaken or could have been thought of as an exquisite piece of art considering you could overlook their obvious age and disrepair. The surrounding smaller mausoleums were filled with expensive sarcophagi and the expected amount of treasure, while the large one in the center had a very large flag that hung on the ceiling and fluttered in the soft wind. The scouts and scribes were not able to learn much about the heraldry in front of them since they believed that this tomb was owned by a very wealthy and powerful monarch in the past.

Inside the largest of the mausoleums stood 8 stone figures representing the various soldiers of the Old World.

Dragon Hunt and Tenmu joined Fluder as he led the way, Kralgra and Heavy Masher taking the rear while Yari acted as vanguard as they delved into the depths of the catacombs.

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Inside the Grave Vault of Adipocere a Guardian's eyes opened, one of the most powerful fighters inside the underground tomb. Her red eyes, silver blonde hair, and alabaster white skin shimmered in the soft light of her room. The bed was a fitting queen-sized bed, silk and satin sheets, hypoallergenic handcuffs, and a side rack full of whips, ropes, chains, leather straps and all other implements that was gifted to her by her father. Shalltear Bloodfallen walked over to the gateway outside as she shoved aside the large stone door towards the Great Vault.

Take note, such vault door was as large a modern sized vault door and was made entirely of solid stone. Aside from being enormously heavy, it was immovable against any human or intruder that might enter her domain.

But she strode outside like she was taking a midnight stroll, each and every cellar she passed towards the end of the corridor where she was located movement seemed to follow her.

"All right! Everyone wake up," she snapped her fingers and at once a group of vampire brides appeared beside her. At her command, every grave, crypt, and sarcophagus bursts out undead soldiers that were kept on standby. They costs no money and they respawn in fixed intervals while undead liches shambled towards her as well. Other specialized undead brought up the rear as the 1st Guardian smiled to show her pleasure at the gathered throng of undead among her.

"Lord Ainz, in his eternal compassion and infinite intellect wished to entertain these guests that have invaded the Great Tomb," there was silence among the undead forces, but she felt their growing resentment at the living beings currently traipsing on the 1st floor above them. So far, they encountered only the token undead defense force, "I know, I know, I feel as much as you all. I would love nothing much than to bring all their heads in front of Lord Ainz's feet. Unfortunately, he is watching right now and he wishes to be entertained, as such, we would deal with these interlopers just as before in the Old World."

"Vampire Brides will be deployed in strategic locations in the corridors that they would be taking- yes!" she pointed to one of the Vampire Brides who respectfully raised her hand. It has been enforced by Warmaster and the Overlord that each and everyone should be open to suggestions and questions to be able to execute their duties to the letter. Hence, the practice of raising one's hand.

"-should we do 'crying ladies' my Lady?"

The small vampire nods her head appreciatively, "Good idea, perhaps do that first then do the 'sleeping beauty' play as well."

"How about 'Get help!' then?"

"Not going to work, it takes a special charm that you sadly do not possess to execute said play. Just do the 2 that we have discussed. You will be accompanied by Elder Liches who will guard each and every intersections. That should shave their numbers down to chewable numbers-"

"As you command," the Vampire Brides trooped outside followed by the Elder Liches.

"Now then, you 'Immortals', front and center," she pointed to a new class of undead that was a collaboration of the 2 Supreme Beings. They were skeletal warriors who carried large swords, those of the 2-handed variant types, they wore standard full plate armor. One difference they carried was the Orb of Death that was embedded inside their bodies. With the Black Hand hunting the members of Zuranon for their Orbs of Death, they would make these Workers participate in a little experiment of their own. It is theorized that the Orb of Death should heal and allow these undead warriors to continue fighting even though they are somewhat 'wounded' in a sense.

"You will be positioned at the 2nd floor entrance and exit, you are to wait until all the party members have set foot on this floor and then you will activate."

"A-as the S-Supreme Beings commandsss-"

Shalltear's eyes widened, "Oh, you can speak. Hmm, not as well as the Elder Liches I think, but oh well, I shall take a note of that. Go forth now, don't want to keep our guests unwelcomed of course."

[Message]

["Kyouhukou?"]

["A pleasure to hear your voice Lady Shalltear, are my services needed at this time?"]

["Not yet, but I want to alert you that they have reached the 1st Floor of the graveyard- have your childrens been deployed already?"]

["Yes, I am receiving reports that they are clumsily making their way the middle of the 1st floor- oh, they encountered the gravediggers. It should be fun to watch."]

["Don't leave your home, the Supreme Being has spoken, activate your traps and transport the unfortunate ones into your sanctuary. Once they penetrate the 2nd floor, redirect them, separate them from each other or take those that will be for your personal use."]

["Our Lords are truly gracious and magnanimous, I shall be on standby then my Lady"]

Shalltear cuts off the connection and then turned to her last task, the large undead in front of him was armored in large plate armor that is reminiscent of Lady Albedo's own. Unlike hers though, the face inside is definitely undead and looked back at her with intelligence and recognition, it carried a towering shield and was armed with a short warmaul.

"Undead General, is your task clear to you?"

The inside of the helm burned with an inner fire as a ghastly voice replied to her, "Yes, Lady Shallter. Lord Ainz has explained my task for me."

"Do not fear being destroyed, you will be remade of course by the Supreme Being," she couldn't understand it, but their Undead King and Warmaster wanted it to be said, as if the denizens of Nazarick would mind walking off to their deaths for their pleasure.

"Such graciousness is wasted on a servant as myself, my blood has dried and my heart is full of sand, this time they have granted to me, shall be used to serve them all."

"I know, our Lords know that you would give it your all. Make them struggle with all their might okay?"

"As is it said by the Supreme Beings," the Undead General banged his breastplate as his warmaul crackled electricity, "So, shall it be done."

Shalltear nods her head satisfied as she retreated to her own room, she would need to lock herself inside as the distance of these paltry humans are too much for her to bear. The last thing she saw as the large stone door sealed her inside was the sight of the Undead General walking towards the passageway to the 1st floor, its plate armor clanking and the battle standard attached on its back carried the mark of Ainz Ooal Gown on a flag made from human skins. This brought a soft simpering laugh from Shalltear's lips as she made her way inside her room, perhaps she could polish and clean the numerous 'things' that Peroroncino-sama left for her to play with just to keep her mind off of the humans that have managed to get past the gravediggers on the 1st floor.

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Re-Estize Kingdom - Capital City

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Crown Prince Barbro walked with a purpose as he trailed a group of his elite guards with him. Each and every door where a sentry stood at the ready banged their breastplates as he passed them. He had heard there was an emergency in his father's chambers when he woke up and he didn't expect that it would be so dire to even merit the Royal Doctor to come in and take a look at the King. He clicked his tongue in annoyance, his father was as strong as an ox and he was still discussing things with him regarding the trade deal a few days ago. A stab of fear and uncertainty wormed its way into his heart at the level of urgency that he was summoned at the King's chambers.

'The old goat probably hadn't died had he?'

He made a turn towards the corridor that will take him to the room of his father when he came face to face with Zanac.

"Oh its you."

"That's a nice greeting considering I am older than you," he sneered at his half-brother and then turned to his father's nanny who was quietly sobbing on the side, "What happened Lady Olenna?"

"Oh my Prince, I came to wake up your father at the precise time that he always asked me to wake him," the woman's eyes held back tears, she was the head maid for the Royal Family and was there when Barbro first cried in this world including Zanac's birth in the palace. So for all intents and purpose, she would probably the only servant that the two Princes actually held any fondness of. Plus, the Royal Princes called her 'Lady Myrtle' a name that they teased her about when she was being courted by a lesser known Duke in her youth.

"I called out to him from the door and when he did not answer, I went and fetched my husband," she dabbed her handkerchief on her eye and sniffed, "We both opened the door with two guards with us when we found His Majesty was unresponsive. We immediately sent for you and the Royal Physician to ascertain the condition of the King, I dare not enter if only to hear such horrible news of your father."

The Crown Prince puts a comforting hand on the shoulder of the older woman and gave a small smile, "Fear not Lady Olenna, my father loves himself too much to croak so suddenly like that."

And he left her on the threshold of their father's chamber, his brother Zanac following him like a duckling trailing after its mother.

They walked inside and found the Warrior-Captain was standing on the bedside of their father with the Royal Physician doting over the monarch. He did not acknowledge the arrival of the Crown Prince as he continued his assessment of the King. He shook his head and then turned to the Royal Magician who also shook his head as if both of them were not sure what happened to their father.

"So?"

His tone was pointed and it jolted the two old men into the present.

"My Prince, I have looked after your father's health since the day my own father passed the responsibility to me," the old physician stood up and took the hand of the King, "But this affliction that he is currently suffering from, I have not seen nor experienced it before. His body condition is excellent considering his age, but he is not waking up at all. He is in a state of deep sleep where he hears nor feels nothing- with the Warrior-Captain's and your permission."

He took a small needle and pricked the hand of the King that he held in his hand. There was no reaction from the King except a small content smile and a soft hum from his lips. Normally, a person that would harm the king could only spell death for such an act, but the physician can do all examinations to the King and so Gazef did not draw his sword. Even Barbro knew the procedures that the physician does to ensure the health of his father and so he did not balk at his procedures.

"As you can see, your father is well. He is simply asleep which I find no other reason to doubt, though I thought perhaps he is feigning sleep, but he snores and no amount of activity or stimulation could get him to open his eyes."

"Is he under a spell then?" Barbro impatiently said, "Did someone poison him?"

It was the Royal Magician who answered next, "No my Prince, there was no trace of magic that activated which would debilitate the King so."

"Then what is wrong with my Father?" the Crown Prince asked agitated at their perceived incompetence, "Will this last long? How long until you have a solution?"

Once more the Royal Physician and Magician looked at each other, "We do not know."

Barbro clicked his tongue irritably then promptly turned on his heels and marched outside, no one tried to call out to him as many things ran through his head as what must be done, especially when his father is currently incapacitated. Loud footsteps came after him as he did not turn, but recognized the huffing sound of his half-brother's breathing.

"Where are you going?"

"Shut up and listen, bring your advisers with you and meet me on the meeting hall an hour before noon at the 2nd floor of the South Wing."

"What are you planning Elder Brother?"

"Shut up and do as I say," the Crown Prince left the 2nd Prince on the landing as he took a staircase going up to the library. If memory serves him correct, this had happened before in the rule of his great-great grandfather when his uncle was ill. He pushed the heavy doors to the library open and accosted the Librarian at once and ordered, "Bring me the records of the last king of the unified Kingdoms of the Baharuth Empire and Re-Estize Kingdom."

"A-at once, my Prince," the middle-aged scribe hurried to acquiesce to his request as it was not uncommon for the members of the monarchy to demand records or books for their reference.

The Crown Prince seated himself to a plush chair with a large desk in front of him, waiting patiently for the document he requested. He contemplated on how this situation can affect his long-term plans, he puts his plans on hold as the documents finally arrived and he then turned to the librarian.

"Summon General Montblanc, the Royal Advisors, as well as the Royal Secretary to the 2nd floor of the south wing one hour after noon. Also, try and see if you can also summon Marquis Boullupe from his mansion I believe he will be leaving today for his lands on the South."

"Yes my Prince."

Barbro waved the man away and began reading on the events a few centuries before his time.

.

Lunch quickly passed as one by one the summoned Lords and nobility by the Crown Prince filed inside the somewhat large meeting room. It was not lavish, nor was it inadequate, it was furnished quite in a standard way and was commonly used by the Monarchy to meet with nobles or officials in the military in an informal setting. Without Marquis Raven, who was tending to his lands in the North and the newly established trade with the Elven Kingdom and re-emergence of the Dwarven Kingdom, it fell into Marquis Pespea, their brother-in-law to advise on Prince Zanac as the next in line to represent the Royal Faction.

Unfortunately though, his elder brother does not seemed concerned about the likes and wants of the factions.

Zanac played with his wine goblet as Barbro finally stood up and looked at them all from the head of the table.

"I gathered you all here today in light of the recent events within our family," Barbro began earnestly, his deep strong voice carried a tone of stability and strength that brought a stab of fear in the 2nd Prince's heart.

"Our father, His Royal Highness Rampossa Ryle Vaiself III is ill and currently incapacitated. The Royal Doctor, Royal Magician, and Priest of the 6 Gods are working right this very moment to wake my father up from his perpetual slumber- yes!?"

It was General Montblanc who raised his hand, "How do we know that the King is sick? Perhaps it was a curse-?"

"-or poison?"

"Unknown disease," another quipped and pretty soon, each and everyone had a point to say as the voices rose up into a chorus.

"IN order to address our initial concern of this nation being leaderless, as Crown Prince, I invoke my rights as next in line to the throne. Subject to the advice and input of the still living monarch's advisors, until such time that my father wakes up from his slumber and leads us again."

There was an extended silence as the occupants of the room tried to process and absorb all the things that the Crown Prince had said. It would have continued that way if not for the sudden sound of a crashing chair and a man slapping his palm on the table quite hard that he vibrated the heavy wooden and ornate table.

"I object on this!" predictably it was the 2nd Prince, "There is no precedence of a monarch being replaced while they still live, it is akin to treason if you will push this."

Barbro looked back at him with a smug expression, "In truth, there was one instance when this specific scenario had happened. Our ancestor, Lord Indarin II on the 3rd year after the 8 Demon Lords invasion and the Elven exodus from the Forest of Tob going to the Abelion Hills has passed, he finally seized the reins of power after the noble houses of 'Farrow', 'Demense', 'Farlord' and 'Elnix' ceded from the Re-Estize Empire and established the 'Arwintar Federation' or what we now know as the Baharuth Empire."

As if on cue, the Royal Secretary drew up rolls of parchment that traced the lineage of the current Emperor Jircniv Rune Farlord El Nix, to the noble houses that ceded from the Re-Estize Empire centuries before they were even born. The Lord Indarin II also issued a declaration of him seizing power from his father who was beset by sickness and a befuddled mind due to the numerous stress of dealing with his Empire breaking apart in his rule. It was stated in the document that Lord Indarin II continuously cared for his father, while dealing the rebellion back then and the cessation of other cities near their border with the Arwintar Federation. Zanac took one look at the hallmarks of the readers and found their father's heraldry directly connecting itself to the Lord Indarin II and served as a reminder that at least, his brother was correct about something in politics.

"As such, I am now assuming control of the head of state until such time that my father would be back on his feet and continue to lead us once more," he declared quite loudly as he looked back at his brother with looks of disapproval, "Any objections?"

There were no replies from the gathered people except Prince Zanac who shook his head and walked towards the door, but before he walked out he turned again to his eldest sibling and said, "I don't know what you mean to accomplish by seizing power from father, but I sure hope you don't do anything stupid."

Closing the door behind him, the younger of the two did not hear the next set of words. But if he did, then he would probably wish to distance himself further from his brother.

"Right then," the Crown Prince was not sorry to see his younger sibling go, in fact, he was quite used to it considering he would not inherit the Monarchy. He then turned to his brother-in-law and said to everyone, "Using E-Pespel as staging grounds, I need plans for a possible invasion of E-Rantel."

After the adviser had given him their counsel, the Royal Secretary and the Archbishop of the 6 Gods ratified his elevation to the title of 'King Regent' as the true King is still alive. Though he is unable to function, the right to rule is still within him, thus the status of Regent is a temporary status until such time that King Ranpossa III can and will open his eyes.

Regardless, all the bells of the Re-Estize Kingdom tolled to announce the news. King Regent Barbro has called to arms each and every able bodied man to ready themselves to prepare for the retaliation against the loss of E-Rantel, he had mobilized the army to retake the Fortress City. It would be a force of such massive scale that it would take at least spring for the bulk of the armies to assemble and cross over to the Sorcerer Kingdom. Though it is a few months away from spring, the wheels of the war machine had already begun, forges and smith shops were ordered to produced large quantities of material. Soldiers began training as well as the Peasant Levy was reactivated. With the autumn harvest almost over, they have a surplus of food that would carry them over to the days of the siege. Still, as the Re-Estize Kingdom prepare for war, the merchant from the Baharuth Empire was quietly summoned by the new King regent.

.

Zadicus stood up and bowed as King Regent Barbro stepped inside the room, he approached the merchant waiting on the table and waved to his guards to leave them. The doors closed behind them as he gestured for his guest to sit down, the Angel did not speak for it was rude to speak before the monarch, nor was it in his place to set off the initial phase of such talks. A greeting though-

"Congratulations on your ascent to the throne, Your Majesty."

"Thank you, though it is temporary at the moment," the man looked ecstatic as the happiness was reflected in his eyes. Such absolute power would definitely corrupt this man in the long run and he knew that anyone corrupted by power, rules poorly on his constituents, "My father had taken a midnight nip of the drink that you have given him and has not woken up since then."

"I-I your Majesty, please it was not poisoned, it was not opened for almost 100 years-"

"I know, because I took the bottle and drank from it."

"W-what? That is incredibly risky and trusting of us, your Grace."

Barbro looked pleased at the titles he is currently hearing to describe him at the moment, "I know that it is not poisoned, because I always take a sip before going to bed and I know the feeling of- blissful contentment might not be very conducive for those of a frail health. And I have also waved off the blame from you considering I took a swig of the bottle in front of the advisors as well. What I wish to discuss with you now though is of a different matter."

"About what your Majesty?"

"I would like you to reach out to your Master and send word to the Baharuth Empire for me."

"Carrying a letter from a monarch is an honor, I will carry your message, your Majesty."

The King Regent took out an envelope with his signet ring sealing the envelope, "I wish for you to deliver this to Emperor Jircniv, I do not believe I can expound to you the importance of this document. I have already ratified the Trading House to be linked to the Kingdom and should allow you unchallenged access through the whole Re-Estize Kingdom."

"Thank you for your trust, your Majesty," Zadicus felt relieved, well that's one part of his objective here secured, "I will send this message after I have concluded our Trading here your Majesty."

"Good. I will pray for the Empire's quick reply to my message."

.

.

Sorcerer Kingdom E-Rantel

.

Baldo Laufray, former merchant and minor noble that resided in the city ruled by the undead. His nobility was inherited from his ancestors who were the first to settle in this area. This was a former hamlet who then evolved into a large walled village, then a fortified town, and then finally into a Fortress city. The Laufray's were primarily providers of oil, vegetable oil, cooking oil, lard, and its other byproducts. Their homestead on the outskirts of E-Rantel had a large swathe of farmland that is now being toiled by undead skeletons provided by the Sorcerer King himself. As such, with his raw materials and menial labor being handled by the tireless undead. His human employees can now focus on the more diverse products that come from their produce. Products that require more than just menial labor and where critical thinking is much needed.

Additionally, the Sorcerer King has tasked him as the Merchant Guild's master and head of the Department of Agriculture.

He stood stunned and in disbelief as the undead King pointed to him and said, "You will be the liaison between me and the merchants of this city. You will control and know the flow of goods and materials for trading, impose a 'standard retail price' to ensure that over and under pricing can be controlled. You will work together with the Department of Agriculture to ensure that our produce can compete with the surrounding Kingdoms. Additionally, I wish to see progress, even by a small percentage, on the volume of our yearly yield. I intend to send food stuffs towards the Dwarven Kingdom and you will oversee the exchange of goods and materials. Is that understood?"

How in the world can he refuse? Such power and responsibility is akin to a Minister and would seat inside the power table in any King's council? And yet, he had never seen such a terrifyingly charismatic King such as him. It was like talking to a great orator, his firm baritone voice held such command in them that the strongest servants, which are also demi-human monsters all bow down at his approach. But he could admit wholeheartedly that the way the Sorcerer King rules is not through fear or intimidation, a notion they were all prepared for on the onset of the first few months of his rule. As time progress though, even the ones that are vehemently against him could not shake the feeling of being utterly satisfied. His rule was of such a relaxed atmosphere and safety that no one seemed bothered anymore with him being undead.

Baldo walked towards the marketplace as he made his rounds for the day. He looked at each and every citizen within this small Kingdom. There was no beggar at all, no one is using tattered clothes, no one looks harried or stressed. Well, except the Public Works department as their wagon passed by with the loaded human engineers looking haunted, they were chewed by the Sorcerer King as there were delays with the bridge he demanded to be built over the national road he approved last week. They were haggling on the design and it proved so problematic that the King sent a Lich and a Magos to assist them. Needless to say, they have unified on their design and have begun the construction in earnest. Giving an amused smile, he lets his eyes roam and saw a portion of the numerous green spaces that the King also pushed to be constructed. Playgrounds for children were erected and these spaces are where most workers who work on the factories and construction go to sleep or rest for their 'mandatory lunch break' of 1 hour. It was a crime he said for living beings not to rest, because the King would always say that there would be no rest in the afterlife as he would certainly call upon them for their service. Crossing a road he came upon the building of the Magician's Guild as he walked himself inside, but not before catching a glimpse of 2 Death Knights patrolling the streets.

This surprised the citizens at first, but they later found that the Death Knights were merely there to patrol. They would walk around their area and would stop if there was any humans that would collide with them. He could still remember an incident that made all who saw it come into silence with bated breathe.

A playing child once collided with a patrolling Death Knight as onlookers watched as the undead merely looked down at the child. It cocked its head to the side and gave the child an all over and only resumed walking when there was no visible injury or damage to the child. The parents came running towards him in shock and surprise as the Death Knight walked away after making sure he was alright and resumed his patrol. That was the time that the citizens knew that the Sorcerer King is truly looking out for their welfare. With such monstrous guards, crime rate is now at zero, the bandit and thieves were given 1 chance only to give up arms and return to the fold and work honestly, or uproot and go to a different kingdom, or die. The choice was simple for some, but some were too hardheaded or foolhardy and took the threat as a joke. In less than a day, those that refused to change or leave were crucified by soldiers of the Undead Legion near the villages that they victimized, crying out in anguish, pain and mercy. The Sorcerer King's mercy came during the night when they were taken by the servants of the Overlord screaming themselves hoarse for their own secret purpose as they were never seen again.

He thought wryly as he walked up to the second floor of the Magician's Guild building, but not before waving hello to the receptionist. All those that were sentenced death or have gone unrepentant against the Sorcerer King were taken by the red-robed soldiers of the Warmaster and was not heard from again. Perhaps it was what he fed his monstrous forces or it was the meaning about what he said about the living needing rest because in death there is always service?

Straightening out his tunic, he breathed deeply and knocked on the double doors twice.

A faint 'come in' could be heard as the double doors swung open and he saw the Sorcerer King sitting down on a single plush chair as both the Adventurer and Magician's guild masters faced him on the other side. A goblet of wine was in front of each of them as they looked like they were arguing or rather Pluton Ainzach was pitching an idea with Theo Rakshir supporting it.

"Lord Ainz, I was expounding on your idea about the legitimacy of the Adventurer's Guild," the white haired guild master began, "Without any support from the other Adventurer's Guild, how can we even began to do the mandate that you have established before us."

"I understand your frustration and to be honest we simply cannot send newly minted Adventurer's out into the field to scout and plot the land without any sort of training-" the Overlord spreads a somewhat larger than normal scroll and Baldo approached catching a glimpse of it, "-as such, I have made a blueprint of a dungeon under this city. This dungeon will act as a training center for adventurers. Construction has begun on the first few floors, but I am expecting you to gather adventurer teams who are 'willing' to try it out."

Pluton rubbed his chin and frowned, "How about their rewards my Lord? And what if they die inside the dungeon?"

"An easy matter Guild Master, any adventurer would be revived free of charge however, penalty on their life force cannot be discounted."

"I see, so a penalty is to be expected."

"Of course, I am a King who provides what is needed, but I do not do so lightly," Ainz waved his hand towards the parchment and said, "Imagine if a person is provided with food, clothing, home and security without lifting a finger. Is it not that the person will become lazy and just wait for what is being given to him? Should he not work hard for the rewards that I am setting for his or her benefit? My subjects will know that their hard work will be reward and merit with honor shall be given to those who truly deserve, not because their blood is blue, or they eat white bread. No, such a nation is beneath me, it lacks intelligence and any sense of justice, as such, my subjects will all be intelligent, hardworking, patriotic and will have pride of themselves. What kind of King would not want subjects like, such a King would definitely fight for such a people, and such a people would have indeed be loyal to him."

"I-I somewhat understand your point my Lord," Pluton and Theo both nods their heads, "Free resurrection magic is a somewhat excellent reward already. Though it does not still establish the legitimacy and the validity of the mandate of the combined Adventurer's and Mage guild, of course, not every nation recognizes the Sorcerer Kingdom in and outside its borders."

"It is of no consequence, I am predicting that before a Gold-ranked group could even clear the first 3 floors, then the 'status quo' against the other nations would be changing."

Both guild masters looked at each other knowingly at the statement of the Overlord. It was like the Sorcerer King could predict that the nations surrounding their small city-state will make necessary steps for the status quo to change.

Pluton and Theo promised to remain at E-Rantel to provide information to the numerous guilds they are affiliated about what is happening within the City of the Undead. Though as more and more time passes between them and the Sorcerer King, including their numerous interactions with each other. They couldn't help but feel that they are dealing with a live person, a very benevolent human that it mystified them to no end how can an undead Overlord like him can be so emphatic of anyone that is alive. Additionally, he had declared that he intends to integrate the numerous demi-humans within the Forest of Tob as his own citizens. That includes ALL demi-humans from goblins, trolls, lizardmen, elves and now more recently dwarves as well that came down from the Azerlisia Mountain. Not to mention their surprise when the Frost Dragons from the mountain came swooping down one day, which elicited a slight panic at the populace. Now, their daily flights at 7am to go back to the mountain and another one at 6pm as they went home carrying materials, dwarves, human workers, and elven traders. It was so bizarre the first time that they saw elves again, these highly spiritual beings that commune with nature walking naturally within the city was surprising and quite frankly felt unreal.

The Sorcerer King then turned towards the merchant and said, "Baldo, do you have news of the project that I have asked of you?"

"Of course your Majesty," the man bowed as he gave a scroll and Ainz opened it at once, "As you can see my Lord, our surplus of agricultural produce has reached the 200% mark, our grain is at an all-time high and our vegetable crop yields are staggering. One thing does concern me-"

"-what is that Count Laufray?"

"How will we dispose of all of these? We lack export markets to dispose of these produce, I can understand that we can store grains up until such time that we need them. But how about the other crops?"

The Overlord gave a hearty laugh, "Are you worrying about rot and food going to waste?."

"Yes your Majesty, it is such a waste to produce a large amount of produce without anyone actually using it."

"It is of a small matter for me to store them in an area of suspended time, the produce will not decompose or rot until such time I took out those resources again."

All three blinked at that, suspended time? Is the Sorcerer King implying that he could stop time? That is impossible!

"F-forgive me for worrying your Majesty," Laufray gave a small bow, "I did not know it is a small matter to store such large quantities of food."

"And that is why I wanted you here as the Merchant's Guild master," Ainz took a sip of his wine and it vanished magically inside his bare skull, "You are a considerate person and an affable man when you treated one of my servants amicably during their stay here before."

Baldo bowed his head, "I do apologize your Majesty, but I cannot recall if I gave such kindness to anyone."

The undead gave another laugh, "Which certainly proves my point Laufray, you exert kindness, consideration and compassion regardless of a person's race or understanding. Traits that I value in ALL species whether they be human or demi-human, alive or undead, it does not matter to me."

Theo and Pluton looked at each other and nodded their head in understanding, the way their new monarch speaks, it was like he is alive or a had semblance of it. Yet his appearance does not say otherwise, in fact, most of his projects are directed to the living for both demi-human and humans. But it still didn't make sense, it was as if the Sorcerer King did not see things as an undead should and they were somewhat convinced that it is for the betterment of the people. I mean, who would complain at all on what is sensibly happening at E-Rantel now?

All three of them stared as the Sorcerer King conjured a black space beside him, like a malevolent void roiling silently and spewing magic of unknown origin and strength. Ainz's bony arm reached inside and looked to the three of them like he was rummaging inside his own spatial cupboard.

'Item Box'

The Magician's Guildmaster realized what it was as Ainz took out a small gnarly wand of some sort followed by a curved scimitar sword. He laid the two items on the table and said, "Here are two examples of the prize item that I am willing to 'gift' to any Adventurer who managed to get past the first 3 stages of the dungeon maze. Examine them, please, it is the result of the work of my new subjects from the Dwarven Kingdom."

Both Pluton and Theo tried to hide their looks of longing at the item as the runes activated as they touched the items. The sword for the Adventurer and the wand for the Mage, their eyes goggled as 3 runes shone brightly on the flat part of the blade, while the wand was carved with 3 runes that glowed around the handle piece.

"M-ma... y-your Majesty," the Mage's hand shook as he felt the obvious strength and quality of the item, power coursed into his hands as the item attuned itself to his magical output, "Wh-what is the meaning of these runes here?"

"Ah, the sword and the wand carries 3 runes each. Not a bad effort for the Runesmiths that are now safely working within our borders," Ainz took another sip of his wine and checked off each and every attribute, "The initial rune is a Durability rune, followed by an elemental rune which is 'Light' for the wand and 'Lightning' for the sword, the 3rd rune is for damage amplification."

It was Pluton who spluttered a response as he recovered from the revelation, "Y-your Majesty, a price of a runed item is simply staggering. I-I mean, it is unheard of since the loss of contact with the Dwarven Kingdom limited the number of runed items in the market. Plus, it is much simpler to just imbue your weapon with magic-"

"I don't understand," Baldo said interjecting, "If it is much simpler to imbue your magic to a weapon, why is it more expensive then?"

Theo managed to go over his shock and reluctantly placed the wand on the table, to be able to hold such an item of a national treasure level was a true privilege, "Master Laufray, whenever a person skilled with magic imbues an item with his elemental skills it would be no doubt applied to the item itself yes?"

The merchant nods his head in understanding, "However, people who fight protracted battles will inevitably tire out. As the magic in the imbued weapon is used up, it would be taxing to cast repeatedly the spell and would result in the weapon losing its elemental efficacy. A runed weapon eliminates the problem of mana deficiency since the elemental magic is already imbued within the item and further amplified by the succeeding rune. Furthermore, even if the weapon is damaged, it is more durable and robust against other items in its class considering the additional rune of durability in it."

"I suppose with the loss of contact with the Dwarven Kingdom, the prices would go up especially since there was no way to replenish such items nor repair those that have fallen to disrepair," Laufray finally nods his head, "I see now, having an army of runed item users would be a show of force and wealth yes?"

"Not only that, it shows that you are technologically advanced and superior to your foes," Pluton re-sheath the scimitar and laid it back to the table, "This is a true boon to the Adventurers and would indubitably inspire them to strive harder in getting stronger and having more knowledge before we send them out."

"Indeed, I was hoping our adventurers could also learn to make maps, catalogue species and learn dialects to ensure that they could act accordingly to the rest of the nation that they would indubitably encounter."

Pluton and Theo nodded their heads in agreement, if the Sorcerer King's ideal on a true adventurer is implemented then they would be the most likely person that would meet an unknown nation or perhaps augment a section of the unknown regions. And he would most likely aim to arm his state-funded adventurers to ensure that they would be properly equipped both in wargear and knowledge before taking on their high-level assignments.

"We are truly in awe of your insight and intelligence your Majesty," Laufray gave a small smile and bowed.

Theo also bowed and admitted without shame, "I have never coveted something as much as the prize that you have given for the first Adventurer team to prevail on the dungeon maze. If I am not the master of the Mage's Guild then you would count me as one of the participants."

"Including me!" Pluton seconded his friend, "It is truly magnificent."

"Serve me and my subjects well and I will have the dwarves forge your own weapons of 5 runes," Ainz said with finality as he stood up and said, "Now, I must bid you farewell. My weekly afternoon walk is upon me."

"We bid you farewell your Majesty," all three men stood up, bowed and waited as the Sorcerer King waved his hand and opened a [Gate] spell. The roiling void opened as Ainz walked through and vanished behind another dimension. The void closed slowly and steadily as the monarch finally left them alone. With his presence finally leaving the room, Theo slumped on his chair as Pluton visibly relaxed even more.

"Well, that went well huh?"

The guildmaster of the Adventurer's looked at his friend who now played with the runed wand in his hand, "Do you think he's lying? Do you think there was treachery in him?"

"None so far," Theo sighed as he took the wand and slipped it into his robes, he would surrender this of course and would join the runed scimitar in a place of honor in the guild house, "His Majesty is... magnanimous."

Laufray finally took a sip of his wine and shook his head, "His intellect is enormous and his business acumen is spot-on. He is not like any undead that I have heard news of."

"Indeed," Pluton sighed, "Sometimes I wonder and if you dismiss the fact that his appearance is an undead, then you would think that he is human."

"Human?"

"Yes!" the white haired man insisted, "His programs for the citizens of E-Rantel and the surrounding area are all carefully thought out. He wished for equality, one thing that is not possible in the previous regime. Additionally, he took away the powers of the nobles- no offense Master Laufray."

"None taken," the merchant shrugged his shoulders, "I am aware of course of the circumstances some members of the nobility and their preferential attitude towards questionable activities. Some high-borne individuals think that they are above the peasantry, but the Sorcerer King truly judges no one. He is fair and that is something most families of the nobility would find grating."

"Though none would dare go against the Sorcerer King."

"It's basically suicide if you do," Pluton also took the sword and looked at the merchant, "Anything else you wish to discuss with us Master Laufray?"

"None, I will need to work out the details on the programs that the Sorcerer King has tasked me with," the merchant guildmaster stood up and gave a slight bow to each, "I shall take my leave, Master Ainzach? Master Rakshir?"

"Master Laufray," they both nodded in acknowledgement.

All three left the conference room as they go about the business that they were tasked upon by Lord Ainz.

.

Children run around one of the green spaces that the Sorcerer King had developed for E-Rantel, it was located near one of the largest residential district of the city as young parents watched their toddlers running about and playing all around. Their undead king designed what he called a 'playground' to accommodate the children and encouraged them to develop their bodies and mind by engaging in physical activities disguised as playing. There were monkey bars, some sort of slide, a merry go round of sorts, swings and seesaws.

Whatever the hell the Sorcerer King called them, the children didn't need instructions on how to use them.

After the simultaneous inauguration of such open spaces, the nearby public safety office reported the first cases of lost tooth by children. Because they would stupidly launch themselves on a swing and try and land on their butts on the grass. Which is not just dangerous, but equally stupid, though can you really stop children from playing?

As such, the people currently spending their time in the park was very much surprised by the dark presence currently standing in front of a candy maker.

"I would like a piece of your candy," the dark presence produced a shimmering gold coin and hands it to the shaking man.

The man looked at the entity in front of him and then at the gold coin on his hand and shakily answered, "B-beg your pardon your Majesty, but I don't have change for such an amount."

Ainz gave a small laugh as he took one of the candies that the man was selling, "Then keep it or give the rest to any child who cannot buy their candy, tell them it is a gift because it is a wonderful day."

"Y-yes your Majesty, I will not forget your graciousness," by the Gods, his wife would never believe that their King actually bought some candy from him. He was a former miner, but with the undead labor provided by his Majesty, he then turned to a less strenuous job of making confections. Though it is a simple mix of ground nuts, brown sugar and honey, it is a simple meal for peasants that he sold for a profit of 1 silver coin a day. Which is more than double than what he makes as a miner before, plus the hours are extremely short. However, by some quirk of fate the Sorcerer King would come strolling on their section of their city and he was surprised as much as those around him of his presence. Others who are familiar with the quirks of His Majesty gave a low bow towards him, but he simply waved at them like a commoner would as he took a stroll all around his city.

Yes, the Sorcerer King is taking a walk.

Being born a Japanese, it is a simple matter to walk 5km a day going to work or school. And considering he was swept into this New World, both he and Sammael wanted to sometimes take it easy and see things one would not be able to see especially if one is riding public transport. And so, after completing most of his infrastructure projects within the city, he began touring every inch of it. One day there would be talk of the King walking towards the Warehouse district, another day there would be talk that he was seen walking towards the manufacturing districts.

Curiously, he had not been seen walking towards the red light district. Ever.

Momonga hummed softly as he walked quietly through this park they have modeled after the Japanese parks of the 20th century. Magically consuming his sweet peanut treats, he headed towards the nearby primary school as he expected the children's lessons would end soon. As he entered the Academy grounds, each and every students bowed and waved at him. Waving back at them regally a woman with her hair tied in a bun and matching glasses in a maid uniform ran up to him and knelt in front of the Supreme Being.

"Welcome my Lord to the primary school," Yuri Alpha gave a smile as she fixed her glasses.

"Umu, you are doing well here I gather?"

The battle maid nods her head, "By your instructions my Lord, the knowledge from the Great Library is quite simple to follow. The techniques of teaching young children until such time that they can progress and determining their strengths and weaknesses is an excellent tool indeed. Additionally, the books from Mistress Yamaiko is most enlightening."

"I am pleased that you found your Creator's collection in the Great Library," the Overlord gave a small laugh, "I knew you would be an excellent fit and would do well in a school setting Yuri."

"Truly your insight is unmatched, Lord Demiurge once said that your intellect knows no bound and I can only agree to his assessment."

They entered the large square that make up the school's quadrangle as the Lich openly laughed at her statement, "You give me far too much credit, but that is too be expected. You did not know your creator much aside from her creating you in her image."

Her silence made him look back at the maid as the human inside Ainz softly said, "Yuri, your creator, your mother was a teacher. Although she was not mine for I am merely too old to be one of her students, but she had a few who actually joined the 'grand game' with us. Each and every Supreme Being is much more than what you all think, they are something else aside from what you know, a part of us dwells in our creation. Hence, my and Sammael's drive to preserve each and everyone of you, for in doing so, you keep the memory of your creators alive."

Yuri's undead heart threatened to bursts out of her chest due to happiness, this explains the care and empathy she felt for each one that is considerably beneath her. Was this perhaps the same trait that Lord Ainz she had inherited from her mother? If that is the case, then perhaps the other Guardians are like that as well, even Kyouhukou perhaps? She shuddered a bit at that, indeed, who was she to judge of course on the Supreme Being who made him.

"Come along Yuri," the Overlord beckoned for her, "You need to report to me about the progress of our students."

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Kami Miyako - Slane Theocracy Capital

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Cardinal Dominic sat silently as the list of problems seemed to pile up as the college of Cardinals met again a few days after the unknown attack ravaged the largest residential district of the Holy City. It's been 3 days since the 'incident' but they were still finding bodies from the sewers as the infected took refuge in its darkness. Homes were mostly intact, but the mental scars and psychological effect of the screams and terrible acts committed by the enraged citizens weighed heavily upon the survivors. Those infected that was captured alive were kept in sunken cages to ensure they would not be able to easily get out as all manner of simple magic was tried to cleanse them off their insanity to no avail.

Additionally, a counter-attack by a unified High and Dark Elves on the Western border was so intense that the garrison who manned the captured Elven Gates was forced to fall back to pre-war battle lines. Compounding the situation further are the black hooded figures that was initially thought to be mercenaries started targeting their officers regardless of the situation or battle lines. The officers who fell were inside the secured forts and castles that were constructed by the Theocracy along their Western border, but they were still taken down from afar with such deadly precision and no small amount of skill, that any manner of magic shielding could not save their officer's lives. Which of course resulted in the erosion of discipline within the ranks, fear of an unseen enemy shook their already abysmal morale and very few patrols can be sent out into the Abelion Hills. It seems that the Elves had regained the victories they initially lost from the start of the hostilities. All those years of work lost because their own military special forces has already weakened by the Supreme Beings in numerous masterful execution of their plans. Even the Holocaust Scripture was pulled back to reinforce the capital city of Kami Miyako considering the Black Scripture is still crippled as well.

Compounding these issues are unconfirmed reports of a new disease affecting their grain stock that are sweeping in the North and East, it affected grain that are nearing its harvest time. Though no specific sickness or disease has been attributed to the spots, it is believed that the increase in cases of cough and cold including a slight discomfort in breathing is the primary cause. Though it is not proven, it is also being investigated if the links of this new disease in grain could be responsible to the deliberate attack on Kami Miyako. Coupled with the heretical movement of the 'Protesters' led by the former acolyte Luther, it was reputed that his movement had gained a large following in the southern territories and is threatening to become a sub-sect of the faith on their own Incidentally, the heretic is being tracked by the former Captain of the 'Sunlight Scripture' who had followed him to the Eastern borders of the Theocracy. His Scripture was wiped out more than half a year ago and the college of Cardinals did not see it prudent to reactivate it. With another heretical 'high cleric' accompanying him, they have reached the Eastern city of Miyamoto and had reported to have picked up the trail.

All of these events happened in a span of less than a few years.

Which begs the question, just how many interconnecting plans did the 'God of Death' planned in advance?

Dominic cleared his throat as he caught himself, Ainz-sama has denied his divinity before and alas, he must acquiesce to it. But he could not deny it in his heart as he was inflamed by his humility, while his charisma and wise outlook for all races belied the true nature of him being undead.

If only he could make Raymond and Ginedine meet him, or perhaps one of the others. Though Berenice is out of the equation for her single-mindedness and of course, the Pontifex's mindset matches her own. If only they could see the Sorcerer King then they would know, the same powers that flowed through him is the same as the Gods. Fear of the unknown and fear of losing their hold on the Theocracy seemed to be one of the reasons why they were holed up here instead of meeting this so-called threat.

Such a waste of time.

So far, it looks like Raymond has seriously considered that the Sorcerer King might be more than just an undead, others like Ginedine are still straddling the fence. Maximillian had denied entirely that the Sorcerer King is Surshana-sama, and Berenice would die first before denouncing the 6 Gods. Curiously, it was Yvon who was silent all this time, perhaps the latest attack weighed heavily upon his shoulder. He was also the Cardinal of Light, the head of the church of Ala Alaf-sama. One of the most powerful divine magic casters in the known world and the foremost supporter of human supremacy. Dominic shook his head as he sighed deeply while the Cardinal of Darkness expounded on the piling issues that they have right now.

"The people are shaken," Maximilian began, "Whoever attacked us, or instigated that attack is completely systematic."

"Systematic? Were you blind?" it was Ginedine who spoke, "Did you forget that I was there and had no warning whatsoever and no semblance of tactics that came from the infected?"

"Relax Ginedine," Yvon interjected, "We are both there and I can vouch that the infected was not being led by anyone. There was no semblance of order in their minds. Just hate and destruction is all I saw."

"Did you sense anything else?"

"None," the Cardinal of Light shook his head, "It is surprising though, I have thought that the Sorcerer King could have had a hand in this predicament, however, that is not the case. We cannot agitate nor condone the Undead King without proof of their link to this incident, we would appear to be warmongering if we continue to this path."

"So, you are discounting his involvement?"

"Not entirely, but I am merely dissuading anyone to build a made-up conspiracy without any substantial evidence."

The Pontifex cleared his throat and asked, "What evidence do we have of this disturbance?"

"We only know that the disturbance started at the market square in the Residental District. From there it bloomed outwards, there were reports of a man attacking a person then that person attacked another one, until they have a whole horde of rabid humans. We also know that they are as strong as a normal human once infect, possibly stronger due to the rage coursing through their body. We also know they respond to noise, scent and vision, but curiously they do not respond to magic being casts around them."

Maximilian interjected, "Do we have proof?"

"One of the Theocratic Guards managed to test out that theory, they also found out that the infected feel no pain. After cutting off a leg from one of the infected, the 'thing' tried to claw and crawl its way forward. Screaming and screeching all the way unless a blow to the head or anywhere in its vicinity could be done to it."

"Were there any aberrations?"

"Yes, there are some who had their sanity returned to them. They did not know what came over them, but they all said that it felt like a dream, their bodies were not their own," Yvon read the reports on one of the prisoners who had returned to their senses, "It was like moving in slow motion and every senses seemed multiplied. They were also aware of their atrocities and we have had some who committed suicide as they relived their deeds to the Inquisitors. Some hung themselves on their rooms, others bit off their tongues and bled to death, while others who could move about were simply throwing themselves off to whatever high place they could find."

Raymond shook his head, "This is terrible."

"Indeed it is, but our woes does not stop there. With the initial breach on the Northern Gate, the infected managed to spread towards the outlying towns. Any unprotected villages was evacuated and retreated to walled towns, every Knight and every available Scripture was pulled back to contain the infected. So far, we have not received word of any infected reaching beyond our borders and our forces have overtaken them most likely considering our quick response to this emergency. However, local militia might not be enough since the most effective way to deal with them is a fully armored soldier with no gaps to exploit and no soft armor to bite on."

"Are they perhaps vampiric in nature?"

"No, they are cannibalistic in their preference. We have received reports of infected eating one of their numbers who had fallen, as such it is difficult to grasp the number of dead civilians of this crisis."

Yvon shook his head and puts down the scroll, "If only the Thousand League Astrologer was here. We could have predicted or at less prevented the loss of such a number of lives."

"But the Fallen Angel has her right? Do we have any information on its whereabouts?"

"None, our Windflower Scripture lost the trail when the Undead King took E-Rantel. Additionally, all covert spies within the Sorcerer Kingdom has failed to report back- except one."

"One?"

Raymond nods his head, "Yes, he was stationed near the border of the Sorcerer Kingdom and the Baharuth Empire. He had been sending intelligence about an expedition that was endorsed by the Imperial Crown of Baharuth close to the territory of the undead. It is said to have been led by no other than the Tri-Arts Magic Caster, Fluder Paradyne, a battalion of Knights and a few specialized mercenaries are with them. Our contacts in the Empire also said that the Emperor has acquired a new 'piece' in his regicide against the Re-Estize Kingdom."

"A new 'piece'? Who is this person?"

"A merchant from a distant land named 'Samuel of Cadia', who had charmed the Emperor and has bankrolled a few expeditions into the Sorcerer Kingdom, the Forest of Tob and to the Re-Estize Kingdom."

Ginedine rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "Perhaps he is being used by the Emperor to open channels of diplomacy? It is too fortuitous that an unknown person suddenly gets into the side of the Emperor and immediately after that they fund an expedition or a trade caravan, as is in diplomatic speak, towards the most troubled parts of this continent."

"You have a point, but we cannot digress the truth that the Baharuth Empire and this Samuel is human and have proactively tried to establish communications between them. Would it be possible that they are aiming for a truce?"

"They could be?"

Raymond took out another scroll, "This just came in today, apparently the King Ranpossa III has fallen ill and Crown Prince Barbro has been crowned King Regent."

"What does that have to do with us?" the Pontifex asked pointedly.

"Nothing much," Raymond shrugged his shoulder, "Except that he wants to launch an offensive against the Sorcerer Kingdom and is asking if we could broker a treaty with the Baharuth Empire."

The Cardinal's looked pleased with that report except Dominic, he knew this was a bad idea, the vision replayed again in his mind. These people do not know the Sorcerer King's might, they have not seen him, nor could they accept this. Perhaps he could allow them to see a glimpse of the madness that they are driving the Theocracy into. For their sake, this train of thought cannot be allowed to flourish. He closed his eyes and muttered a simple plea to the heavens.

'Please- please do not let what I saw come to pass.'

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Alexander woke with a start as the events of the prior days kept replaying into his mind. His father was dead killed by his mother, who was also dead, killed by an arrow to the right temple by one of the soldiers who were fighting back against the infected that day. It felt like a blur to be honest, these days after he recovered, he was pushed towards the Cathedral of Light and joined those of the emergency services and nursed back those that have been affected by the tragedy. Forcing himself to work, he had not had the time to grieve nor take care of his parents burial arrangements. The Theocracy has dictated that all infected bodies are to be gathered, studied and finally burned for disposal, eliminating all chance of a proper burial for their loved ones. A lot of families were wiped out by the tragedy as the infection rate was quite high, its rate was high as well as its virulence. If you can properly call it that, he had not had the chance to talk to someone yet on what happened. He was thought to have been a survivor, not the propagator of the infection, but the burden of that thought was on him alone.

He knew that the 30 plus thousand dead that night all began with him, but he could not tell a soul.

As the guilt weighed heavily, it sealed his lips shut, for fear of persecution, of pain and further suffering. Hadn't he suffered enough? Hadn't he given his all to the Theocracy and promised to safeguard them, yet none could explain to him what had happened?

Why he lost all control of his senses, his motor skills including his sanity? Why was it all taken from him? Was it the anger? Was it the Elves and their new diseased arrows? But he had not suffered the same affliction as that hunter, nor did he suffer any breathing problems?

Was it the bread perhaps? Then why was he not affected when he ate the bread that his mother served him with? There was no other that could have triggered such a transformation in him to a different person that it is mortifying not to remember. Why? Why though?

FUB-DUB!

His heartbeat drummed on his ears, he was lying on his bed now on their empty house. The emptiness was deafening and it brought forth a surge of emotions quite familiar with him already. The silence pounded to him the point of his loneliness and the state of nothing he has. Their house was now empty of everything, it was empty of the conversations with his father, it was empty of the sound of his mother bustling through the kitchen-

FUB-DUB!

Was it his fault? Whose fault was it? Why did it have to hurt like this? I hate this. A situation that is not my fault, of loneliness and heartache, the feeling of being alone, the feeling of being left with no one.

He hates this.

FUB-DUB!

Whose fault is it anyway? Should it not be the Theocracy that would be defending them? Then why did this happen?

Alexander opened his eyes as he looked at the soft light of the moon now shining on his open window. His darkened face was illuminated by the light as he looked unashamedly at the sky with tears streaming down his eyes. Anger bubbling inside him, simmering and festering. It roiled inside him like the steam of a hot cauldron, a pain so intense gripped him as he tried to control himself. His heart wanted to burst out of his chest as the pain hit a crescendo and his emotion came all crashing down. And with this sudden realization all of a sudden the pain was gone, his anger had a direction, it no longer ravaged his body. Instead, his pale face focused on the moon as he wanted to cry out his frustration, the inadequacy of the Theocracy leader is what made them like this. Their weakness to uphold the teachings of the 6 Gods, they have grown complacent and relied solely on the power given to them by their titles. If they were doing their jobs, then they wouldn't have to suffer, Kami Miyako would still be at peace.

Instead, it felt like they were sitting on a barrel of explosive oil. A mere tinder is all it takes to blow it all into smithereens.

Someone must pay, someone will pay for the death of his mother. They must all know his pain, his anger, his barely restrained fury at the thought of the loss of his family. Alexander was alone and he did not notice it, but the pale light of the moon had long illuminated his face and the red eyes of the infected looked back at the sky.

"Let this world burn!"

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On a nearby park, where the stench of the dead has finally been washed away, yet the memory still lingers. Two hooded men walked towards the Northern gate with a purpose. One of them was decked out in an all black ensemble, reminiscent of the regular battle uniform of the Sunlight Scripture, the other one was decked in the gray and white of the Inquisition. He carried a crozius that is the hallmark and primary weapon of his office as they headed for their mission towards the Northeast of the Theocracy's territory.

"How's the 2nd herald?"

"He's doing fine, a bit unhinged, but well within parameters."

"Will he perform for the Supreme Beings?"

Erythro smiled at that as he puts a mask on his face, "We can encourage him of course."

"I hope Luther performs his job well."

"His movement is currently gaining ground, the one in the south is also gaining ground, getting more support and belief that the Advent of the Gods are near and it is detrimental to the nation if we resist it."

"Change is a difficult thing to achieve," Nigun walked quickly with his friend beside him, they had passed the 2nd herald's home and have now reached the Northern Gatehouse, "Humanity must change and unify to be further exalted for the Supreme Beings."

"Indeed they must," Erythro affixed his hood as they walked outside of the city, "As we both must do as well."

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To be continued... into the next chapter.

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The Emperor sat on his veranda overlooking the capital city of Arwintar as the late night meeting with the Generals and his advisors concluded with a light dinner coupled with a few glasses of wine from the Northern-Western fields of their Empire. They tackled the recent reports about other merchants trying to re-establish the connection to the Dwarven Kingdom as the northwestern road had been reclaimed by the Forest of Tob and they would need to commission another expedition towards that way. Thankfully, his new friend Samuel was willing to establish the intelligence about the Elven Kingdom and the Sorcerer Kingdom if it would be beneficial for them.

Additionally, the old man's own expedition should have returned to them reports. It has been a few days since they have left and so far, the only report that they have gotten was that they have reached the site and it looked extremely promising considering the age of the ruins and it seems to be intact. Well, at least most of it, from what the initial report has reached him from the frontier. There were no substantial findings yet, but he was hopeful that the old man would find whatever the hell he was looking for. Considering the vicinity of the ruins to one of the frontier villages in the former Re-Estize Kingdom, now the Sorcerer Kingdom, they all agreed that a small force would be needed to avoid notice. A quick in and out to investigate it and ride off with whatever they needed to get out of it.

So, it was such a surprise that he saw a lone man running up the main courtyard of his residence in this late of night. From behind he could see a member of the light cavalry legion following close behind. They were speaking in hushed conversation yet their footsteps were hurried and was designed to attract attention, the sentries of the main palace door swung the door wide open as his secretary stormed inside. He stood up and pulled out one of his robes from his bedside, he knew Loune would rouse up one of his maids to make him presentable and perhaps allow him to wake himself a bit more before barging in. However, he did not wait long as he heard the loud voice of Loune banging and slapping on his heavy door, this break in protocol alarmed Jircniv who stood up quickly and draped the robe over his sleeping garments.

He opened his chambers on his own as he saw his maids rushing towards him, it looks like his secretary was such in a rush that he had foregone the proper way of waking him up.

If that is the case, then it cannot be good.

"What is it Loune?"

His oldest friend breathed and opened his lips, but stopped at the last moment. It seemed he was weighing what he had to say and did not say it out loud immediately. This brought a fresh stab of fear on the Emperor as he looked at his friend's troubled face and quivering eyes. He was clutching a piece of paper in his tightfisted hand as he clicked his tongue in irritation and grabbed the paper from the secretary.

He opened it without preamble, "What is this news that could not wait in the morning that you had to wake up the- whole... household."

General Carvain's personal handwriting seemed to glare back at him as he read the paper, the good general was currently the commander of the garrsion at the Imperial Castrum, on the border of the Sorcerer Kingdom. It was written hastily with only one sentence on it, yet this sentence seemed to rock the very foundations of the Empire and its Emperor to its core.

"LORD PARADYNE HAS FALLEN, SITUATION IS NOW UNTENABLE."

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

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Thank you so much to the reviews, I had a lot of things on my plate. But I would like to mention your names, especially to Starthistle, Random-Fan-2017, Oronkin Rundas, Theorist01, Zahran, El Demonico, alexjrs88, Azukka, Lord FTW.

I may not be able to reply to all your reviews, but I will endeavor to continue. Even without any payment, I do this all for FREE.

No PAT. R. EON or TWITCH or any of that for me.

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Cheers,

Scarabeye3000