Heaven or Hell

by Scarabeye3000

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

22. Clouds of War

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

Title: Heaven or Hell

Chapter 22 - Storm Clouds

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Great Tomb of Nazarick - 9th Floor Bar

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The Sous Chef twisted the cap of the exquisite looking bottle as he calmly poured a measure of the potent liquid into a crystal copita. He also poured an equal measure of crystal sparkling water as he puts his gloved hand over it and softly spoke, "[Hyo-On]" and a soft bluish light emanated from his hand. He laid out a bar top coaster with the sigil of Ainz Ooal Gown on it as the Overlord and the Warmaster both exhaled thick clouds of smoke from their cigars. It had been almost a month since the New World inhabitants tried to penetrate the Tomb's defenses, which ultimately failed leading to numerous deaths of the invading Worker groups and a heavy blow to the Baharuth Empire. The experiments they began yielded excellent results as Sammael gave a small chuckle as he sipped on his cognac.

"Something funny?"

"No, I'm just thinking about the 'Immortals' and their somewhat efficacy in battle, which is a lot of improvement from the pop-cap skeleton warriors we get. Hopefully, we can get them to act as Sergeants so that even the pop-cap warriors can move and act cohesively," Sammael sighed and shook his head, "If only Fluder did not destroy the Bridge of Baka-Doom, AH! I would have been really happy if he did not destroy it."

It was the Overlord's turn to give a small laugh, "Did you not design that bridge with Peroroncino? It was meant as a tribute to that film you loved about that 'ring' and the small boy that carried it."

"You mean 'The Grudge' or was it 'Sadako's Ring'?"

"Gah! No! It was that movie with the halfling and the large hairy feet meme."

"Ah! The Fellowship of the Two Towers and the Returning King right?"

"That's it!"

Sammal chuckled at that, "Well, that bridge was meant to give you a shortcut to the 3rd floor from the 1st floor allowing you to skip 'Shalltear' boss fight. But if you forget to trigger a mechanism that would undo the locks on the passage to the 4th floor, one person must sacrifice and return back to the 1st floor so that Shalltear gets sealed into the Vault of Adipocere however, if one does not do that-"

"Ah, I forgot to trigger that specific mechanism though. By the way, Neuronist sends her/his regards, that new toy you sent was deeply enjoyable he/she said," Ainz tried to stifle the shiver whenever Neuronist would prostrate before him, "That blonde Theocracy idiot screams very well he/she said, kept screaming about his mother for hours."

"Well, the trap was set when he walked away from the fighting on the Bridge of Baka-Doom, he tried to escape to the 1st floor with his slaves. Fortunately, he stepped out first and his slaves remained inside the elevator hence they were spared and was not automatically sent to the 'Room of Truth'," the Fallen then sighed and asked, "What of his slaves though?"

"They were given to Mare and Aura and the slaves just went maniacal with delight- remember when the Elven Principality was established in the Forest of Tob? Didn't the 3 Princes begged to have at least one of the twins to stay so that they may be of use to them? Well, it was like that for the 3 slaves and I also tried to talk and convince both Mare and Aura about it so that they can learn about the outside world."

"What did they say about the slaves though? We can't just let them go of course considering their minds have been broken already, didn't the twins have anything to say against it?"

Ainz puffed an 'O' shaped smoke to the air as he said, "Well, only for the first few nights when they would sleep and the 3 slaves tried to help the twins dress in their pajamas and found out about Mare's- umm, constitution."

"Oh? Any violent reactions?"

"Well, Mare wouldn't willingly hurt anyone except if they are against us, but anything about girls he seemed uncertain about. Aura though was positively shrieking at the Elven girls gawking at her brother, he is well endowed for his age of course-"

"Gah! I don't want to hear that about my favorite children!" Sammael covered his ears as sous-chef gave a small smile within himself. Seeing the Supreme Beings in their most unguarded self was a privilege he would not share easily to anyone. Such is his mandate and such is the way he was made by his Lords who are Gods in their eyes. He is here to serve them, he is here to give their every whim and to keep their wine glass always full.

"Sous-chef, make me a vodka martini and an old continental for my friend as well," the Fallen said as the creature/bartender bowed at him.

"What about your lead on the Theocracy?"

"Nigun's doing fine, we are expected to push through in a year maybe less if all goes well," the Angel took a few roasted nuts on the bar and nibbled on them, "The 'Iron Curtain' is now finished, the north is now secured- we have received word that caravans from the Argland City States and Karnassus Union are in talks about our activities. Their leaders are 'concerned' about the revitalization of the Dwarven Kingdom and most dwarves that scattered out of the mountain have heard of the changes and is beginning to trickle back to their cities, but the main issue are the other nations adjacent to us since their shortcut was blunted by the Iron Curtain and the newly established Dwarven Kingdom. Merchants are sending feelers through the Dwarven Kingdom especially in resuming trade. They threw a festival in your name did you know about that?"

"Oh my god, hopefully its not like what the Lizardmen's celebration is like. No more statues and all that-"

"-well, too late on that end. The dwarves have begun smelting a golden statue of you that stands on the center plaza of Feo Berkana, you should have seen them though, when the first of the forges in the old capital city was lit. You could feel the happiness coming off of them."

"Really?"

"Have you ever seen stocky and short bearded men cry before?"

"It was a sight to behold I tell you."

"Good for them, any news on our West and East?"

"The West will be marching in a few weeks now, the bulk of their army or 'peasant levy' needs to circumvent the Forest of Tob and the Azerlisia Mountain since that is part of the Sorcerer Kingdom now. The East will march as well, but we can expect another guest soon- will you welcome him with me?"

"To discuss servitude?"

"Heavens no! I was going to offer them an alliance or at least a non-aggresion pact," Ainz shook his head and drank the rest of his poison, "I thought you knew diplomacy?"

The Fallen laughed at that, "Only aggressive negotiations, usually with a gun or a ballistic missile pointed on the other table."

Ainz sighed as silence descended upon them, "Did you know that Demiurge has begun inciting the demi-human tribes of the Abelion Hills to gather their strength and attack the Holy Kingdom?"

"Oh? How is he achieving to funnel the material and funds towards that endeavor?"

"He is actually asking for your permission to trigger an event on a scenario he believes you are orchestrating on the west about the less savory citizens of that nation."

"Eight Fingers?"

The Overlord nods his head, "Apparently the connection you have with your public face on the West and its Royal Family is somewhat similar to the one on the Eastern Empire. Did you not have an Angel at their capital right now?"

"Yes, Zadkiel is over there with Arche, by the way, didn't Sebas found a flower in the Capital recently?"

Ainz nods his head, "Yes, her name is Tsuare- I believe we just found Ninya's elder sister."

"Ninya? Isn't she that girl that was hiding her identity to her team?"

"Yes, it was embarrassing to discover though since I needed to talk with you urgently one time and I saw something I shouldn't see."

Sammael gave a puff of smoke into the ceiling, "You mean when you forced your way inside the lavatory and found her seating on the toilet?"

"Pfft! I-I DID NOT!"

"-sureee~"

"I swear I did not!" if Ainz could blush he would have done by now, "How was I supposed to know that the lavatory was occupied? Plus I didn't know how to read the alphabets of the New World and the word 'Occupied' starts with a P here!"

"A likely story~"

"Shaddap! I needed to send a message to you urgently and I simply cannot be bothered to go back to the inn and contact you there, so I went to the next best thing and stepped inside a lavatory."

"-next best thing~?"

"Would you just- just stop putting meaning into my words! Ah! You are giving me headaches!"

"Wait! I'm giving you a headache?"

"Yes, a head-"

"-but you're already dead though."

"-what?"

"Yohohohohoho~ 45 degrees~!"

Sous-chef bit his nonexistent lip as he tried not to express his happiness at the 2 Supreme Beings before him acting so normally. He could not express his gratitude enough for his maker that gave him such a function. Every fiber of his being tried to stifle the elation as he was so thankful he had no lips to show his happiness.

"Oh really? We're going there now? Skeleton jokes?"

"Heh! You're so easy to tease Momonga-kun," Sous-chef stiffened a bit as he heard Sammael-sama just call Ainz-sama with his previous name. Of course, the Supreme Beings words are law, but being of the same status he could call him whatever he wants to. "How's your 'handle' though?"

"They just promoted me to Adamantite, the intelligence that I gave in regards to the Tomb was beyond what any group could ever hope to attain. Plus, we have the Baharuth Empire to thank for that as well," Ainz looked pleased at that, "When the Baharuth Empire learned that I was an Orichalcum ranked adventurer, I was offered an Adamantite rank to stay with the Empire. I told them that I will consider it and I must make a report on the Re-Estize Kingdom first to complete my mission, when I got back to the capital, I got my Adamantite plate waiting for me courtesy of the Re-Estize Kingdom."

"They practically begged you to have it huh?"

"Quite reasonable in fact, to lose an Adamantite rank team means to lose a great military advantage and considering the campaign being launched in the West and East, they would be hard at work to secure every advantage."

"With the thing that idiot is doing by running their Kingdom, I wouldn't be surprised that the Monarchy would implode from within even without their attacks on the Sorcerer Kingdom."

"Is 'Operation: Reinhardt' still at go?"

"Indeed, we are still finding pockets of Quagoa inside the mountain, but all other access outside have been sealed off or are being watched. My soldiers would complete their sweep I assure you," Sammael nods his head as their talks turned to more serious topics, "Hopefully, once the West and East are secured then the South would follow. Once we are secured then we can extend to the Draconic Kingdom, the Argland State Alliance and the Karnassus Union or we can go straight and break into Eryuentiu."

"Are you sure that it's a guild base?"

The Fallen gave a smirk as he took out a data pad and pressed the glowing button on the side, "Look here."

Taking the data pad into his bony hand, he looked down on it and gave a small laugh, "I can't believe it."

"Neither could I, but if that isn't anime or even game inspired then I don't know where they got that inspiration from."

"Hmm, the north side looks like- 'Aincrad' you think?"

"The Sword Art Online castle? Maybe- check this one on the middle just behind the right spire, looks familiar?"

The Overlord gave a small laugh, "Interesting. If I didn't know better, that looks like 'Kami's Lookout'."

Sous-chef fingers shivered as both their Lords gave deep meaningful laughter. The news brought by the small tools the Fallen carried immense satisfaction for both the Supreme Beings. He stifled the rising tremor on his usual steady hand, lest he trembled at the thought of what could make his Lords laugh in excitement.

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Slane Theocracy - Eastern Walled City of Miyamoto

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A group of men quickly walked towards a large house overlooking the Border Lake as one by one they stepped inside through the door and closed it behind them. Their boots sounded on the wooden floor as a soft light could be seen on the end of the corridor. The group of men quickly headed to the light at the end of the hallway taking no care if their footsteps was heard as another man stepped out and saw their approach. One of the men gestured to the approaching group as they were all beckoned closer. They all filed inside and found themselves in a large room with a mass of male and female in attendance. A congregation for the faithful of the Slane Theocracy and those open-minded individuals that believed in a higher meaning than the teachings given by the Cardinals of the 6 Gods. In their center stood a man that had implanted the words and ideals that would be the seeds of doubt in the mind of those that served the 6 Gods.

"Brothers and sisters hear me, too long we have been on the controls of the Cardinals. Too long have the mysteries of the 6 Gods kept from us, the truth that they have spoken to their subjects was not given in full by our elected leaders."

Luther gestured with his open arm as he lifted a set of papers from the table, "They have corrupted the original writings of our Gods to suit their twisted ends. They vie for control on our lives, on our minds and on our beliefs, but the truth will always come out. Fortunately, for some twist of fate, the Gods have granted me access by a merciful Confessor that I shall not name. Some of those that do not firmly believe think that he is to blame for my 'heretical' views and teachings, that he had planted the seeds of doubt in my heart."

"I say unto them, that the seed had been there all along. That their own misguided teachings are to blame and directing our righteous anger and hate to others is not the teachings of our Gods, but a blatant manipulation of their Holy Words to fulfill the Cardinal's earthly desires of control and supremacy."

Two hooded men that came in late looked at each other as the first one tapped the other jokingly.

[Message]

"-damn, the heretic's oratory skills are good."

"He was a former Priest, of course he would have been trained well."

"Not just that, but the intelligence- and his passion for speaking. If I am not a believer in the 6 Gods then I would be certainly converted!"

"Well, he seems diplomatic so I suppose we can ask nicely."

"Not a chance."

The former priest called Luther held up a piece of paper and said, "This is a copy from a page that I saw in the restricted sections, words from the God of Life himself, transcribed by their first disciple, but corrupted by the current ruling body of the Theocracy. And I quote, "Imagine there's no countries, it isn't hard to do, no one to kill or die for, and no religion too. Imagine all the people, living life in peace. You may say I am a dreamer, but I am not the only one, I hope SOMEDAY you will join us, and the world will live as ONE."

"Clearly, the Gods has spoken that they wished for all people to live as one. Where there will be no reason to die or kill, living only in peace, they would even sacrifice religion if needed to achieve such peace," the former priest voice lowered an octave, "But did the Cardinals follow through with their teachings? Did they approach the demi-humans for peace? Did they try to end our war with the Elves? In fact, I believe it even worsened based on the latest news from the Western borders. And the soldiers that fought for the ideologies in cleansing the supposed demi-human blight in this world, where they not casts aside? Their names stricken from the record? Properties that should have been given to them were all for naught, not even their bodies were recovered! Poverty is increasing in all the corners of the Theocracy and the Capital, which should have been the bastion of peace and security was devastated with an attack that not even they could explain!"

"THAT'S RIGHT!" a male attendee suddenly stood up and raised his fist, "My brother was a member of the Sunlight Scripture and his widow languished in the Capital since the Theocracy leaders does not wish to accept and honor their sacrifice. Their family was treated as a bad memory and if it not for the efforts of their Captain who was released by the enemy, then she would not have anything to live for."

Luther nods his head and gestured to the man, "Here is definite proof of the corruption and impunity that the Cardinals are operating, tell me good man, where is your sister now?"

"The former Captain of the Sunlight Scripture who managed to return back gathered all the widows and their children and using his own ancestral money bought lands for my sister in the south and gave it to them, others were sent here and given lands as well. If it not for the generosity of the fallen Captain, my grudge for the Theocracy would be insurmountable."

"Indeed, I heard that their Captain flew into a rage when he found out they were dissolving the Scripture and terminating the benefits of all those that lost their lives," another gentleman stood up who attested in the gathering, "My cousin was a personal guard of one of the Cardinals and they said he was so upset that they almost had to come into blows. But the Cardinal stopped and sympathized with him, hence, he was able to give help to his lost veterans."

"This former Captain is clearly a man of character and honor. Admirable traits that seemed to be lacking from our current leaders whose sole focus is control! I say we should take matters into our own hands and demand a change in leadership, the leaders of the Church act as Kings and Gods, but they are undeniably human!"

Answers rang through the group as the two men stiffened at what is currently happening, "That's right!" , "This is unfair!" , "We don't deserve to be treated this way!"

"How long will we wait until we get answers that we want? How long will we wait until change is effected?"

"That's true!"

"I say we rise up and impart these ideals to our fellow countrymen, these ideals for equality for ALL must be not just humans, but for demi-humans as well!"

"That's RIGHT!"

"How can we face the GODS on judgement day when we as their servants failed to defend and uphold their words!"

"YEAH!" , "SOON!"

"Brothers and sisters! We must all work together for this goals, our comrades in the South grow stronger and numerous everyday. Our northern comrades report of equality that is said to rival that of the other wealthy and prosperous nations of the Karnassus Union and the Argland State Alliance. Why can we not be like that? Why should we be in the yoke of such hardships? Why can we not be more like the subjects of the SORCERER KING!"

"YEAH!"

"The Sorcerer King is undead, but he has been the symbol of equality. The same EQUALITY that we WANT! The same EQUALITY that we NEED!"

The congregation stood up in applause and cheers as the two hooded men looked each other in the eye.

"If they do not wish to give EQUALITY, then we will TAKE IT! By FORCE IF NECESSARY!"

Amidst the cheering and shouting, the two hooded men slipped away as they heard everything they needed to hear. Such heresy could never be forgiven by the powers that be. They returned to their rented room as the heretical movement would be uprooted as the special High Confessor and his retinue should arrive tomorrow on their doorsteps.

Meanwhile, at a local inn a man dressed in a black overall coat accompanied by a man of similar dress looked at each other and stretched their bodies. The merchant caravan they arrived with had dropped them off at the best inn at the city and hurried off to their Guild House. The two men stepped inside the premises as the light and rowdy atmosphere of the hotel permeated through the halls.

Erythro stepped up to the counter and smiled at the pleasant looking woman, she carried a pendant of familiar make as he asked, "Good lady, we require rooms for the night. Separate beds, food would be a blessing and we would pay by coin."

"Certainly my Lords, please take a seat, I will bring out our freshest mushroom soup, some meat and white bread."

"Much obliged," the Confessor sat down as another man sat down beside him, the man's lower face was covered, but his blonde cropped hair and scarred face was quite noticeable, "Want a drink?"

"I suppose so, I want orange juice though."

The Confessor's face crumpled at the memory, "You know we can't get that here."

"I know," Nigun gave a chuckle behind his scowl, "I'm just saying, but whatever they have is fine."

A bottle was taken out and they both poured themselves a glass and downed it in one go. The fallen Captain sighed as he felt a creak in his neck, "By the Gods, I never thought our roads were as bad as the Re-Estize Kingdom. My spine seemed to have moved by a millimeter with all that jostling around."

"Apparently, the public works had some serious issues a week ago due to the 'Rage incident' that spilled out of the Capital. Though there are no more confirmed cases and the far-flung provinces have been cleansed. We are still not sure if the status of being infected can be transferred to any demi-humans or creatures that might consume an infected person."

"I really don't want to talk shop right before we eat."

Erythro gave a small laugh, "I thought you liked those topics considering your 'new maid' kept pulling the pranks non-stop especially when I dine in your house."

"She's just being funny-"

"-no, she's not. I sometimes think she hates me!"

"She hates humans in general to be honest or rather have a poor opinion of them."

"Your human."

"Technically," Nigun flexed his left hand and felt power beyond what a human could do, "To be honest, I haven't tested the full extent of my blessing. Soon maybe, but I sincerely hope not too soon. Ever since then I like to keep things under the radar, if you know what I mean."

"Cloak and dagger stuff again?"

"Something like that."

Being a lakeside city, it had no short supply of the rowdy crowd such as fishermen and trading ship sailors that flocked at the inns during the night to relax and have a bit of drink in their system before sailing off again in a day or two. And so, a group of sailors have been eyeing Nigun and Erythro ever since they removed their hoods and sat in front of the counter. Making sure that it was actually Nigun, one brave soul stood up and sidled up next to the fallen Captain.

The first Heretic took another swig of his drink and asked, "Can I help you?"

"I'm not surprised you don't remember me Captain Nigun, you high-borne officials generally don't care about us too much eh?"

Nigun's cold gray eyes leered at the man as he saw a large face scowling down at him, he seemed familiar to him, but he failed to recognize the man. Thankfully, the man decided to introduce himself, "I am called Carias, I was a junior acolyte of the Sunlight Scripture. My brother went with you at the ambush at Carne Village, but how come you get to live while his family has to suffer? Why does his children suffer when you get to go back to missions? Why do I have to be a fisherman when I was on my way to being an acolyte? Is it because you are a noble and we are not? Are our difference too far apart? Why should we all suffer for your failure to complete your mission?"

Suddenly, the man named Carias drew a long serrated blade that is popular for sailors that they used as both for utility and defense. He lunged at Nigun who stood his ground as he caught the bladed weapon in his left hand and aimed a well-placed punch on his chin. His attacker sprawled to the ground, the white of his eyes shooting up to his eyelids as he lie down flat on his back, cold and knocked out from one blow. As the sound of his punch echoed through the small bar, there was a sudden silence as tension filled the air as Erythro clapped his friends back and shook his head while saying.

"Nigun just apologize, I really want to rest."

"I don't think that's what they have in mind."

*sigh* "-I hate you right now."

Everywhere around the bar numerous chairs scraped and tumbled to the ground as drunk sailors stood up and charged the two new comers, the cries of the barkeep could not be heard through the din as the rowdy crowd tried to get a piece of the newcomer.

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Erythro dusted a patch of dirt that clung to his uniform, although the citizens had the numerical superiority against the two of them. Being an active member of the Theocracy's military and Nigun being enhanced more than a human could, easily cleaned up pretty well against the locals as the Holy Knights of the city barged inside with their weapons drawn.

"In the name of the 6 Gods cease this at-"

"-shut your pie hole!" the High Confessor snapped at the Holy Knight while raising his crozius of office as the gathered Knights stiffened and saluted with respect, "Arrest these instigators for public scandal and alarm. The barkeep will attest to our innocence as they began to harass us for simply enjoying our meal, send word to the office of the Windflower Scripture that I am here in this inn and to meet me here when they can to discuss Holy Writ 972. I am tired from the travels, I am sore since I just came from the front lines, and I do not want to deal with bureaucratic red tape right now. Understood?"

"Yes High Confessor! At once High Confessor!" the surprised Knight recovered his senses as he saluted and immediately ran back out while his colleagues stood up and hauled out the troublemakers.

Both the Dark Apostle and Heretic resumed their seating positions as they received a new unopened bottle as Erythro sighed and said, "Ah yes, where were we?"

"You hate me?"

"Yeah, before that-"

Sounds of running boots came from outside as two hooded men barged inside the bar and approached the two of them. It was the Windflower agents who just came from the heretical meetings.

"Greetings High Confessor Erythro, I am from the Windflower Scripture," he took out a small writing pad from his chest pocket and handed it to the high official who looked down on it. The two agents looked nervously as Erythro scanned the writings on the pad and silently handed it to Nigun who also quickly scanned it. The hidden Dark Apostle of the Sorcerer Kingdom looked at the two agents and said, "Get a table and sit down, we'll need to talk."

After getting their bowls of soup and more drinks and glasses they occupied a table as Erythro opened the writing pad again in front of him. In the paper was the heretical names of all the people who attended the meetings that the two spies went to. Right on the top, he saw the name he was looking for.

"So, you have found Luther's whereabouts?"

"Yes Confessor," the spy bowed respectfully, "We just came from one of his meetings and saw him spreading lies and deceit to the populace. There was even talks of worship and collusion with the Undead Sorcerer King."

'That's Lord Ainz to you, idiot!' Nigun's sharp look was interpreted as fury against heresy as the spy continued.

"They are planning an armed revolt and it is said that they have hidden caches of weapons that they can use to force a coup d'etat if necessary."

"An armed revolt?" the first Heretic nods in understanding, "I see that the seeds of heresy is deep within him."

"Indeed," Erythro tried not to look pleased as the situation seemed too convenient for them. Was this perhaps the plans of the Supreme Beings all along? "We must lance away this rot to the Theocracy. Have you identified the militant arm of their heretical sect?"

The spies shook their heads together, "Apologies my Lords, we have not secured more information. Our intelligence was not enough considering it took us months before we can find a sympathetic ear to our pleas in joining."

"It was hard to join their heretical movement?"

"Yes my Lords, they are very strict as well in screening the members. There are rumors within their ranks that a confessor is aiding them, but we have not corroborated this information yet."

Erythro frowned at that statement, "A confessor? How? A confessor cannot lie at all, it would be detrimental to their ranks if an active confessor is with them."

"We have been given word that the confessor was a previous member of the Sunlight Scrip-"

Nigun easily crushed the wooden mug he was pouring his drink at as the 2 spies shivered in fear, Erythro shoved his mug towards his friend then turns to the spies and said, "Go on."

"Y-yes, it is said that the errant Confessor was a former member of a Scripture who fell out of favor with the Inquisition."

"Captain Nigun, was there any confessors in your Scripture that was not reabsorbed to the Inquisitorial ranks?"

The fallen Captain gave a wry grin and sighed, "There were a couple of Confessor-Adepts that were unaccounted for, I heard that they were greatly affected by the failure that we suffered on E-Rantel. Since the Sunlight was a combat Scripture and most of them were new and young confessor, most of the whole batch of junior confessors did not get reabsorbed back to active service. I do not know where they are now considering their seniors were all lost during the failed 'raid' against the Warrior-Captain."

The spies looked at each other knowingly, so it was true that the Sunlight Scripture was eradicated before accomplishing their task of assassinating the Warrior-Captain of the Re-Estize Kingdom.

"We must make haste then," Erythro nods towards Nigun as he took the writing pad and kept it in his pocket, "We should grab Luther before he is able to disperse his congregation."

"Are we going to do it alone?"

The High Confessor nods his head, "Yes, I suppose the two of us should be enough to catch 1 heretical junior priest."

"I thought you would do an Inquisitorial Purge."

"Too high profile and we would need preparation for that, what we need now is quick action."

Turning to the spies, "Both of you return to the Windflower Scripture office and alert your scouts. I want their ringleader Luther in a ring of surveillance, I want their activities watched, I want his top Lieutenants identified and I want you all to standby. But never ever get too close, the target is a heretic and we do not want them to know that their time is up. We would deal with them after you get more information, is that understood?"

The two spies stood up and bowed respectfully, "Of course my Lords."

Walking away outside, the Dark Apostle and the First Heretic grinned as they were left alone to converse about their mission.

"So?"

"So, I'm going to sleep," Nigun quickly stood up and headed upstairs where the innkeeper was waiting with a candle.

Erythro was left on the table as the barkeep approached him and said, "My Lord, the drinks and food are 1 silver and 5 copper coins. The rooms we have reserved for you are 1 silver coin each."

"Cheap bastard didn't even split the bill-" the Confessor took out the required coin as drained the rest of the liquor from his mug and sighed, "-I sooo hate you right now."

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For a full week, members of the Windflower Scripture doggedly followed the activities of the heretical priest as Nigun and Erythro also investigated how deep heresy has taken root here. There were telltale signs of the heresy that the members of the other Scriptures did not know or not familiar with, but both the High Confessor and Fallen Captain know all too well.

Graffiti on walls, especially on the port areas about shouting for 'Solidarity' or 'Equality' or some other slogan promoting equality and uplifting of the poor. Unbeknownst to the Cardinals of the Capital, the new disease brought forth by the issues with the crops was not a simple matter as they thought it to be. While the 'Rage Incident' may have affected and killed numerous citizens of the Capital city, the sickness that is slowly spreading in the East would have a far-reaching effect than they could ever hope to imagine. Although standard protocol of isolation and purging had been done, it is not so easy to kill something which you cannot see.

For months, the Eastern walled city had been beset by numerous setbacks as the crops that they harvested contained a sickness that spreads a vile disease never before seen by the Theocracy. If a person or animal should ingest the diseased crop, lethargy would quickly settle on their bodies as their energy is quickly sapped from their bodies, fever and shortness of breath soon follows as the infected person would not recover from this. Symptoms would progress until boils and pustules would erupt from their bodies consuming their strength and faith to the 6 Gods. No amount of salves and potions could cure them as the diseases spreads to their whole body. Their faces would be gaunt and pain would wrack their body in bouts of spasms, the only relief would be the time that the spasms would stop and a feeling of bliss that the clerics would find their patients would be in.

As if the pain was so great that any temporary relief was bliss upon them.

Some could not take the cycle of pain and relief that they would take their own life or ask for euthanasia, while others who have not experienced such symptoms continue to work and silently spreads the disease. Hence, it was made mandatory to wear a hood and any face covering to ensure that any contact with the outside would not be detrimental to one's health. Erythro though found it amusing to see that the Theocracy clerics bouncing around trying to find a cure against this sickness that had already affected 5% of the population of the walled city. Though it was a drop in a bucket compared to the whole Theocracy's number of citizens, it is still a substantial number that is currently suffering. Although the death toll was not too much considering it was not deadly, just terribly inconvenient to be honest, and most of the deaths that occurred was from suicides who could not take the cycle of pain and relief that wracked their bodies that usually happened multiple times a day.

With the crops being diseased and all, they relied further on the Northern Cities for their grain and other crops considering their whole stocks were purged by the Theocracy, which puts a strain as well on the whole Agricultural sector considering 'Kami Miyako' is relying on the North as well to feed it after the 'Rage Incident' paralyzed its farming infrastructure. Not only was the Residential district hit back then, it was also where most of the manual labors for farming, masonry, and skilled workforce all resided. The Western cities was too far and the retaliation by the invigorated Elven Kingdom was getting out of hand, the demi-humans Elves were pushing hard and was hitting even the Citadel near the Abelion Hills, a feat only done when the Elven King was active and moved against them. The Southern cities were indifferent to the woes of the Capital as they only send token assistance after all the woes that recently happened to the Theocracy, plus the fact that they are too far away to make any help substantial.

A merchant caravan could not feed a whole city after all.

So, the Eastern city had to fend off for themselves and this has driven the teachings for equality and unity to take root in the supposed faithful of the 6 Gods. Attendance to worship services have also dipped down considering their were independent church meetings sprouting up every where and agents of the Windflower Scripture was hard pressed in finding and monitoring them all as most of their number is in the Capital right now and trying to root out the cause of the 'Rage Incident' while the Clearwater was still trying to root out the cause of why the Elven Nation had increased their activities and trying to get inside the Sorcerer Kingdom as well. With all of these woes, it was not surprising that Nigun and Erythro found the mood of the citizens akin to a powder keg of emotions. Like a writhing mass of bottled up anger, it threatened to explode upon the slightest provocation.

And they know just how to set-off that powder keg.

.

"I am not surprised to see you here my benefactor," Luther smiled serenely as he covered his mouth as he was hit with a wracking cough that shook his body. The situation on the city has worsened after a week that it necessitated for Nigun and Erythro to advance their plan to wait and find out the rest of the members of the heretical tree that sprouted in the Eastern city. The plague had swept through every sector and those infected rose sharply to 10% of the population.

Erythro was wearing a mask over his nose and mouth as part of the restrictions imposed by the government, an inconvenience born out of necessity as the plague has started to affect even the nobles of this city. More and more the people had clung to the belief that the Central churches are not doing enough to quell such disease, an event never before seen by the citizens of the Theocracy. It highlighted the glaring failure of the Cardinals and the Pontifex to safeguard and make safe the direct subjects of the 6 Gods.

"You have taught heretical beliefs to the masses and have moved their hearts away from the 6 Gods," the High Confessor said gently, "That cannot be seen as acts of a faithful servant of the Gods. Thus, I am here to bring you to the Cardinals to face judgement."

Luther smiled as he looked weakly at them, "I merely spoke the truth, the truth that you have helped me see. Do you still honestly cling to the notion that the Cardinals are just? That they conveniently twist the words of the Gods to their benefit and make humanity the superior being in this world? Clearly that is not the case, there are many beings inherently more powerful than humans, yet they continue to delude us with teachings that they decide for us what to hate and to judge other beings as inferior."

"Humanity has been blessed by the Gods, they have given us Tiered magic that allowed us to dominate our foes. It has allowed us to build kingdoms, establish family and maintain order," Erythro replied as Nigun stood on the end of the bed, "It has allowed us to drive away the darkness that threatens our very existence. It has given us hope and security for centuries-"

"-it has isolated us," the heretical priest coughed weakly, he had just recovered from a bout of pain and was feeling euphoric at the release, "The human-centric teachings only served to deepen the rift between us and the Holy Kingdom, it also failed to secure our dominance over the region, not to mention the recent setbacks that the Theocracy could not address. If the teachings of human superiority and isolation are not working, then perhaps the alternative would bring us relief."

"You mean demi-human acceptance?"

"For a start, the words of the Gods that I have procured can only be interpreted as such."

Nigun nods his head as Erythro's eyes glowed, he met Luther's eyes as the man's jaw slowly opened in awe. The moment has passed when the High Confessor asked, "Luther son of Nitram, for your sins of spreading heretical teachings of the 6 Gods. You are placed under arrest by the rights of the Inquisition, you are to be taken to Kami Miyako to face the Tribunal. If found guilty, you will be executed as a heretic, do you yield to my authority as High Confessor of the Theocracy?"

"Yes," Luther's eyes were unseeing but a tranquil smile settled on his parched lips, "my Lord."

The High Confessor stood up and gestured to the waiting men on the doorway as they loaded him into a stretcher. The Fallen Captain and Erythro led the way as they stepped out of one of the many public hospitals that the Eastern City have. All round them sharp looks followed them as the rumored 'Young Apostle' and 'Enlightened' was known to be in the hospital. A gaggle of his supporters surrounded the building as the Windflower Captain who knew Nigun approached them.

"I thought you would make this subtle?"

Erythro grinned wryly, "Apparently, the intelligence of their heretical movement had their ways around the gag order. Were you able to at least root out the lieutenants?"

"They're not lieutenants anymore, apparently they have orders to scatter and initiate a campaign of defamation and push for the abolishing of the college of Cardinals."

"How's the status of that though?"

The Windflower Captain shook his head, "It's getting traction to the masses and some of the nobles as well are pushing for clemency. They actually want the fool to be pardoned of his heretical claims, which I am sad to say, is gaining more and more supporters everyday."

"I do hope that you can handle this city, the Capital is still reeling from the 'Red Rage' attack and it shows by only having a High Confessor and a former Captain to escort our high profile prisoner here."

"I can spare some men if you want to tho-" the Windflower Captain stopped talking as they heard the bells of the distant churches began ringing. One by one, the church bells rang as if by some spell they all began sounding frantically. A great clamor of voices suddenly reached their ears as the small gaggle of supporters of the heretic Luther suddenly ballooned into the hundreds and thousands as people began letting out their frustration against the government.

Nigun stepped into the driver's seat as Erythro joined the weakened heretic inside the carriage, he turned to the Windflower Captain and said, "I don't think you would have enough men to spare."

"Hi-yah!"

He snapped the reins on the horses rump as the carriage lurched forward. They quickly made their way outside of the city as the sounds of bells and shouts of anguish filled the streets of the Fortress City of Miyamoto. The suffering of the masses had reached their highest as the symbol for freedom that most citizens take comfort of had been taken from them. And as Nigun calmly sat and drove the carriage back to Kami Miyako, he couldn't help but look back at the Fortress City as fire began breaking out as the riot soon enveloped the streets. They didn't stop to rest for even a moment until they could not hear the sound of the masses rioting throughout the whole city anymore. Erythro crossed his arms as he looked at Luther who was layed on the makeshift stretcher, his eyes was glassy and his face was calm, but the vision he showed shone clearly on the man's eyes.

"Surshana-sama, I go now to fulfill your words," Luther sighed as he softly spoke as sleep descended on him.

.

.

Re-Estize Kingdom Capital

.

Gazef Stronoff wiped the sweat from his brow as he sheaths his sword after completing his weapons training for the day. On a normal day after exercising and physical training, he would go for meals and then get dressed until finally joining his liege in his many duties during the afternoon activities. He would be the constant shadow of King Rampossa III and had fulfilled such a role for more than a decade. Unfortunately, after cleaning himself up and dressing in the finery of Warrior-Captain, he immediately headed to the room of the King and found members of the Warrior Troops standing in attention at the door indicating the presence of the monarch inside.

With the King gripped in an unknown illness, it has fallen to the Warrior-Captain and his personal troops to secure the vigil of their liege.

Many questioned the status of the elite troops of commoners that surrounded His Majesty the King including the legitimacy of their presence. But the King's will is absolute, after the ambush of the Sunlight Scripture against the Warrior Troops and the subsequent discovery of the Noble Faction members betrayal resulting in their power base diminishing. The clamor for change has been silenced for the most part, even King-Regent Barbro dared not go against the will of the King and the immense popularity of the Warrior-Captain and his supposed benefactor who now ruled E-Rantel. Though he has no thoughts on why the Sorcerer King Ainz Ooal Gown and the Warmaster Sammael would seize E-Rantel, he knew that both beings are of absolute power and would no doubt have the power to destroy the Re-Estize Kingdom and all its surrounding territories if they should feel inclined to. That is why he had been pretty vocal about attacking the Sorcerer Kingdom, or the Sorcerer Principality as the neighboring nations called it to be. Unbeknownst to the majority of the citizens and nobles, the recently reestablished Elven Kingdom and Dwarven Kingdom were both vassal nations of the Sorcerer King. In this capacity, to be able to exert his power and influence in so short amount in time communicates a being of power and cunning that is unmatched by any human he had met before.

Plus, the power he felt gushing forth from their presence was enough to rob the bravery out of his soul that day.

He banged his breastplate in greeting as the two guards nods at him and then respectfully saluted. Opening the door for him, the members of his elite corps closed the door behind him as Gazef looked at the sleeping form of the King. He approached the king sized bed and saw that Princess Renner had already finished her visit, the new flowers that are handpicked every 3 days gives a certain light and cheerfulness into the room. The open window as well was indicative that the Princess allowed the stale air to circulate around the room as Gazef knelt beside the bed and offered a fervent silent prayer.

'My King, my heart aches for your welfare. Your person is being assailed by an enemy that I cannot protect you from. You, who have graciously accepted me into your household, who have plucked me from the seas of mud and brought up to your home, who have given me honor, strength and knowledge that is far beyond what I could ever hope to get. May the Gods bless your soul great father.'

Gazef then stood up and walked over to one corner of the room where he could observe the King. He would keep this vigil over the sleeping King until finally dusk settled and his replacement would relieve him after his 10 hour shift. Unbeknownst to him and the ruling class of the Re-Estize Kingdom, the rulers of the underworld of the Kingdom would hasten their fall with their insurmountable greed.

.

Zadicus took a seat in front of Sebas as he took out a scroll inscribed with the writing of the Warmaster and the Overlord. Solution sat beside him and also eagerly waited for the scrolls to be passed onto her. Silently reading and understanding the contents of the scrolls he took off his reading glasses and gave a small nod first of affirmation before handing the scrolls to Solution.

He met the Angel's eyes and said, "A bold plan indeed, when should we initiate it?"

"As our Lords command, we would act as soon as the 'Fingers' make their move."

"I see, perhaps they would soon act considering I have recently rebuked a lesser noble who is also an acting Magistrate ever since I have stepped over bounds and committed an act that is not parallel to our Lords own."

At his words, Zadicus smiled, "To be honest, Lord Ainz and Lord Sammael are pleased that you did the right thing. The status quo is now shifting and our enemies would make the mistake of antagonizing us, a mistake that would be their downfall."

Solution cleared her throat as she held the scrolls in her hand and cast a flaming spell to incinerate it, "I have something to report as well, the ladies of the noble houses are saying that the crops have been stable recently and that their husbands are preparing for the spring march which will began in a few weeks. Word has reached them that the far-flung provinces of Marquis Raven has already mobilized their troops, although it does not look like the Marquis has committed his full force to the battle."

"Indeed, he is smart not to do so considering he holds the far-flung province and frontier of the Re-Estize Kingdom in the North," Zadicus took out a data pad from his coat and laid it on the table, "According to elder brother Bardiel, who is currently heading to the Argland Council State and would pass through the lands of the Marquis first to do reconnaissance, he would send word if it is tenable to invade through the North. Though that would take us too close to the Argland Council State and might incite them to retaliate or at least protect their borders."

"What do the Supreme Beings think about that though?"

"They did not comment on it, though they entrusted the Guardians to perform well in the inner circle of the Sorcerer Kingdom while Lord Sammael sends all of us to the edges and help in our expansion."

"All 8 of you?"

Zadicus gave a slight chuckle, "Not all 8 of us can be sent out at once except through the unbending will of the Warmaster. Though it has been done before considering we were tasked in accompanying our avenging Lord through the Reliquary Crusade, plus it was a special circumstance that we were all summoned at the same time."

Solution gave a dark smirk at that thought, "Perhaps summoning all 8 of you heralded an event that would make such an end to these pest, perhaps to usher in a new age or perhaps great suffering and punishment?"

"That is not entirely inaccurate Solution-san," Zadicus cryptically said, "We indeed herald the end for our Warmaster's enemy and that is a well established fact in the Old Worl-"

Urgent knocking made them all turn to the door as the Angel waved his hand and the lock disengaged itself. The one who knocked was one of the Skitarii Legionnaires that came with them, it was Companion 12 who stepped inside and saluted sharply before approaching the General.

"Yes?"

Companion 12 saluted again and said, "My Lord, I have come to report that Lady Arche and Lady Tsuare has both been abducted by agents of 'that' organization."

Zadicus calmly nods his head and waves the Legionnaire away who bowed once and turned on his heel. Sebas's eyes looked stricken as the object of his protection was taken including the Angel General who noticeably sighed and steadied himself.

"One of us would have to inform Lord Ainz that the 'gift' he had for Sword of Darkness has been taken," the Angel stood up and hurriedly walked towards the door, "While I must inform the Warmaster that one of his property has been stolen by the enemy."

As the Angel stepped outside of the room Sebas also stood up and said, "I shall inform of His Majesty about these turn of events, make ready yourself and prepare in case we are needed to retrieve the 'gift' that has been taken away from him."

Solution bowed submissively, but not before having an ear splitting grin of the prospect of bloodshed that would indubitably be brought forth by the plans of the Supreme Beings.

.

.

Eight Fingers Meeting Room

.

"What the hell were you thinking?"

Hilma's face was a contorted mask of disbelief and anger as she heard the report from her doves that a bargaining chip recently came to the possession of Cocco Doll.

"I don't know what you mean? What are you so angry about?"

The leader of the Drug Trade slammed a piece of parchment on the table and exclaimed, "I have an agreement with the merchant from the Baharuth Empire. Why would you abduct his secretary anyway!?"

"Are you talking about the other girl?" Cocco Doll rubbed his temples, "When we took back the 'goods' she was with her and she resisted. Of course, our security forces would take her as well. She looks quite valuable considering her noble features and her intelligence, I'd say she'll fetch a fine price. Plus, she looks unspoiled as well, many nobles pay top coin for that you know."

The blonde haired woman gripped her temples until her knuckles turned white. How in the world would she explain this to Zadicus? This decision is actually impeding her own operations and her progress on getting endearment with- wait a minute. There's no reason for her to actually cover for any of her comrades- no business associates, yes she can come clean and have her separated and come out innocent about this event. She needs to clarify this immediately with him to avoid any conflict with her own interests. She waved her hand and one of her 'doves' approached her, she wrote 'meet me please' on a small parchment and then she sealed it with her signet ring. The 'dove' or male prostitute hurried out of the meeting room and immediately headed to the man who is his mistress's current favorite.

Standing up, the leader of Eight Fingers looked at her and said, "Where are you going Lady Cygnaeus? We are still not finished."

"We are finished- the moment I was notified that one of our number has directly impeded my efforts to penetrate the markets of the Baharuth Empire legitimately."

"Come on darling, it's not much of a big deal you know." the leader of the Slavery Department, Cocco Doll, scoffed a bit at her attitude, "That merchant would follow our line when he finds out that we can easily get anyone that we want. That includes him of course-"

"-our agreement in this organization is that we would move independently for the propagation and wealth of our own group. By doing this kidnapping without my permission or notification, you directly jeopardize my legitimate line to the Baharuth Empire. Additionally, by being a legitimate business owner sanctioned by the Baharuth Empire, they would have more clout in regards to the political aspect in their neighboring Kingdoms."

Hilma walked out of the room but not before seething in anger said, "You have costed me a business opportunity!"

The rest of the members of Eight Fingers watched her go as they continued the discussion of the recent agenda.

.

Hilma made her way outside towards her mansion as she was still visibly upset at this event that happened with Zadicus's associate. Honestly, she didn't want to actually hurt him in anyway, he was different from any male she met before. Of course, she's a high-class lady, many men have danced to the tune of her palms and ministration. For some reason though, the charm this man has exuded towards her was very confusing and alarming. Not even Princes or high-borne Lords have this much effect on her.

They're all marks that she can milk either for their money, or reputation, but this man captured not just her respect. Dare she say it, perhaps her heart as well.

'Impossible, I'm like a teenager here!'

Sighing deeply, she headed towards the veranda and was surprised that one of her 'doves' came running towards her and said, "My lady Hilma, Master Zadicus has arrived and requests your presence."

"Impeccable timing as always," she sighed once more and said, "Take him to my lounge room, we are not to be disturbed. Bring refreshments as well."

"Yes, my Lady."

Her heart was hammering in her chest, she was nervous both for her confrontation of this issue, but also for how he would react about her involvement in such events. Perhaps being honest would be better in the long run. She didn't need to wait long, Zadicus arrived in the room, his appearance was not surprising to Hilma right now. Gone was the luxurious tunic that he wore, the intelligent and affable man she knew had a sharp look upon him right now.

Armored in high quality plate armor, it was similar to his own Legendary-class armor, but on a lower scale considering he couldn't actually show it to her. A sword hung on his hip as he looked at her with anger in her eyes. This stilled her as she had doubt that perhaps he knew all along.

"Your request to see me could not have come at a most unfortunate time, an unforeseen event has befallen me and I am contemplating on how I should address this."

Biting her lower lip, she sat on one of her recliners and took a deep breath, "I- I have something to tell you."

His eyes softened as he also sat down and said, "Of course, I'm all ears my Lady~"

"I- I have to admit something to you," she closed her eyes and steadied her heart, "I am part of an organization that 'controls' the underworld of the Re-Estize Kingdom. One- one of my associates have acted against you and I just learned that they took something that is of your master's property."

Zadicus kept silent, but his eyes urged her on.

"Y-you must- please understand, we move independently from each other and I have no direct control over this kidnapping- there I said it, and I was hoping your view of me has not been affected too much. I am not a clean person Zadicus, but for once in my life, I can't help and just be honest with you and admit things about me that no high-borne person have ever known."

She looked down exhausted as Zadicus stood up silently, approached her and said, "What organization are you talking about?"

"I- I am the head of the Drug Trade for Eight Fingers," she replied not even trying to look up to him, "I use my brothels to introduce and distribute potent drugs to the populace and to my high-class clients. But I never did dabble into the slave trade for I was once sold as one."

Sitting in front of her, she grabbed her shoulders and made her look up at him and his brown eyes seemed to delve further into her soul, "Who sanctioned the kidnapping of Arche including the woman named Tsuare?"

"I- It was Cocco Doll, he heads the Slave Trade in our group. I did not agree to it and I was just notified right now during our meeting, which I walked away from."

Zadicus captured her eyes again and said, "Why are you admitting this to me Hilma? What is your motivation?"

"I- I don't know-" she averted her gaze as a blush erupted on her pale cheeks.

"Tell me-"

"-I don't know, I've been with men more richer than you, who are of noble blood, princes of their own domain. But I- I just don't know!"

The Angel gave a small grin and said, "You are right, my view of you has diminished. I never expected a woman of your stature to be one of the head of a criminal organization," she bit her lower lip nervously again, "But I never expected you to like me so much that you would dare risk yourself against your equally dangerous colleagues."

"Since you have been honest with me, let me be honest with you as well."

Zadicus snapped his fingers and immediately five men in black hood dropped down from the ceiling, Hilma gasped at their appearance as fear gripped her heart.

"Hilma Cygnaeus, I am a servant of the Sorcerer Kingdom and your honesty to me has ensured your survival in your organization."

"W-what do you mean?" Sorcerer Kingdom? Isn't that the Undead Nation that had been the reason for the loss of E-Rantel in the first place, "Aren't you from the Baharuth Empire!?"

"This may be a confusing time for you, but let me assure you, Eight Fingers would submit or be eradicated tonight."

A chill went up her spine as he spoke of things too terrible to repeat out loud. The only thing she knows is that she believed this person with all her being and she would not in anyway wish him harm. Not that anyone can seem to harm him at all.

.

Two men hooded and covered in black overalls looked at the large mansion in the middle of a secluded section near the Re-Estize Kingdom capital city. Their night vision goggles does not necessitate lights or torches and their enhanced eyesight allowed them unhampered view from the darkness. One of the men thumbed a device on his ear and said softly.

"TOC this is Companion 12 and 13 on OVERWATCH 1 due Southeast of the target, we have visible enemy count at 12. Leather armors and short swords mostly, enemy status is relaxed. OVER."

From afar, a reply came through as a Skitarii with white markings replied, "This is Companion 01 on Tactical Operations Command, Companion 04 on vox comms. All teams report on status."

"Companion 10 and 11 on OVERWATCH 2, we got eyes on the West of the mansion, enemy count at 5 only. Back door entrance indicative of more men, probably close to 10."

"This is TOC, switch to UV or FLIR."

There was silence on the other line, but a reply soon came back, "FLIR is showing movement, UV is untenable, the torches are too bright for the sensors. But we got... 4 more inside in front of the table."

"ENTRY TEAMS this is TOC, sound off and activate your IR-IFF."

At once numerous lights in the Infra Red that denotes the numerous teams of Skitarii that are currently scattered around the surrounding area of the mansion.

"Companion 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, this is TOC. Stack up ENTRY TEAM 1 on Main Entrance. Companions 14, 15, 16,17,18 stack up ENTRY TEAM 2 on the back door. OVERWATCH teams neutralize your targets.."

"This is OVERWATCH, targets on sight. Prepared to fire."

"This is TOC. Send it."

.

Blaise scratched the itchy part where a mosquito was previously occupied with sucking out his blood. It grew a welt as he irritably clicked his tongue and sighed as he leaned on one of the pillars of the mansion they were guarding.

"What you on about now?"

He turned and saw his colleague sitting on a nearby chair, he was nursing a bottle of wine as they both stood guard on the main entrance together with 5 other men, not counting the 8 others just waiting on the first room inside and all those other men wandering the whole mansion. The reason for this large gathering of men is that the leaders of Eight Fingers, excluding one, is gathered in the basement of this building. The basement is connected to numerous passageways going into the numerous districts of the city and they are all controlled by every department that makes up the whole Eight Fingers organization.

"Nothing, just bored that's all."

"Eh? I'd rather have boring than those in the drug section are currently at."

"What you mean Jabos?"

His friend named Jabos, a veteran street urchin that graduated into a thug for the organization gave a snort of laughter, "Them idiots got one of the farms torched, all them sons of bitches killed and you know what's worse?"

"What?"

"No survivors, it was like the whole night shift get visited by some shadow or something."

He approached Jabos and took the offered bottle as he took a swig of the cheap wine, "Well, I'd like to see them try to visit us."

"Don't want none of that though, if I got to kill something then they ought to bleed and-" the sound of the bottle hitting the stone floor made Blaise turn as he heard the shattering of the glass. His sleepy eyes and murky mind took more than 5 seconds to process that Jabos had his face blown wide open by a large caliber round. Before he can scream out in alarm, he saw the 5 other men with them dropping to the ground like sacks of potatoes. He couldn't even react as he also fell down on the floor with his throat blown open by something hitting him with a thud. The last thing that Blaise laid his eyes upon was 5 shadows coming out of the darkness as they carried something like a crossbow on their hands that spew out fire.

'Damn, didn't even see those at all.' was his last thoughts as there was finally darkness.

.

Stealthily, the entry teams comprising the Skitarii companions easily tore through the entrances. Silencers and short swords made quick work of the surrounding enemies as the thugs that had no training at all was felled one by one. With over watch provided by veterans as well, it was not difficult to clear the whole mansion of enemies.

"TOC, this is Entry Team 2 making our way to the stables. Kill count at 22. *THUD* Make that 23."

"This is OVERWATCH 2, Entry Team 1 make your way towards that corridor your in- hold on the threshold. Two enemies possibly inebriated on the other side, take them down."

"OVERWATCH teams this is TOC, any indication of Lady Arche's location?"

"This is Entry Team 1, making our way to the 2nd floor. Clearing rooms now."

.

"What were they thinking doing this to us right now?"

Tsuare sighed as Arche gritted her teeth in frustration, she never expected this situation to befall on her. Sir Zadicus tasked her to go with Tsuare in buying provisions for their meals, but for some reason these group of men started harassing Tsuare and they were forced to flee for their safety. Taking an alley towards the other road, they were ambushed and was knocked out cold, but not before she managed to take down one of the men that dared touch her. They recovered a few hours later and she found out that they were clapped in irons and chained to beds on a somewhat luxurious mansion.

She sighed as she remembered the way that Lord Samuel procured her, 'What is it with noble men who seemed too inclined in taking her all the time!?'

The former slave girl gave her a defeated look and said, "I am sorry Lady Arche, I was sold into slavery and I am currently a runaway. Master Sebas had graciously taken me to their household, they gave me the only known charity I have known my whole life. And now, I have shamed them by including you in my situation, forgive me Lady Arche."

Tsuare sobbed continuously as Arche took her shoulders and embraced her tightly.

"Don't worry Tsuare, I'm sure Lord Zadicus and his soldiers are doing everything they can to rescue us."

"Forgive me for doubting, but I heard these people are the ring leaders of the underground slave trade. Their name is whispered by every slave that ever came through the Re-Estize Kingdom and all their elite servants are known to rival or equal the Warrior-Captain."

Arche gave her a smile as she tried to comfort her, "Have faith Tsuare-san, we must believe that they are coming for us. We must always-"

CRACKCRACKCRACK
CRACKCRACKCRACK
CRACKCRACKCRACK

The sound of doors bursting open, followed by a soft 'thump' and the soft groans of men outside alerted them as Arche thought something was happening. Though they wished to move, the iron and chains that are clamped on their wrist are tightly binding them to the side of the bed. So, they huddled together as the sound of obvious fighting came through the walls. Frantic voices came from behind the door as 5 thugs came barging inside as the two girls looked on with puzzlement in their eyes at their captors' panicked expression.

"Let's get out of here!"

"Where will we go?"

"This is the last room, let's use them as hostages-" one of the thugs looked at them as they all approached them menacingly.

Arche's mind was racing as she didn't know what to do, she was beginning to fight them off using her feet if it comes down to it, but the open door revealed a glimmer of hope in the semi-darkness of the room.

A man in a black hood, his face covered with a mask and carried a long metallic tube with a knife at the end stepped inside followed by another one who carried a short sword and a shorter metallic tube that glimmered with a point of light.

"They're here-"

CRACK!

The long metallic tube spew out fire and the head of the thug exploded, the Skitariis, the private security of Lord Samuel kept moving towards them as the 2 of them made short work of the enemy. A soft humming could be heard as the Skitarii approached them from the bed, which she could see now that they were wearing some kind of cover on their eyes that glowed green and red. Finally, they reached them and sat next to them as they heard the Skitarii speak.

"TOC, this is Entry Team 1, package is secured. Send in TRAIL TEAM." the Skitarii looked into their eyes and said, "Lady Arche, this one is named Companion 05. Are you hurt?"

"No, we- we're fine," the addressed girl nods enthusiastically, she didn't expect that her faith to be this well-placed, "They didn't get a chance to do so."

"Very good, a different team will get you out of here. We must eliminate all enemies for now, keep safe and Companion 09 will remain here with you as you wait for the trail team. Is that understood?"

Both Tsuare and Arche nodded vigorously indicating that they understood, he also acknowledged them with a nod as he stood up and said, "Companion 06, 07, 08 stack up on the door. Companion 09 on sentry duty."

He walked outside of the room as another Skitarii with the Roman numeral of IX on his upper arm band. He kept silent as he took the corner for sentry duty, but not before offering a bar of chocolate to the two girls who took it with great gusto.

.

Zadicus stepped into the gloom as he passed another dead body on the ground, he was taking the route that Hilma previously took when she left the meeting. The passageway was an underground tunnel connecting it to her mansion or brothel leading up to the meeting area for the leaders of the organization. He carried a torch with him to illuminate the way not because he need it, but because his companion might stumble in the darkness considering her frail disposition now. Hilma Cygnaeus followed closely behind as she tried to keep up with the revealed servant of the Sorcerer Kingdom and since she knows about it as well, in extension she is now a servant as well.

It brought renewed fear within her heart, especially the other servants namely the woman bringing up the rear he called Solution as she smiled unnaturally at her.

I mean, who could bend lips like that?

She kept silent all the way, but she couldn't help overhear the sound of people dying just beyond the gloom. Just before reaching the end of the tunnel there was movement in the darkness as one of the 5 black plate armored men approached him.

"My Lord, the main area of the tunnel has been exposed. Reports are coming in that the Companions have cleared the top side."

"Very good, inform your brothers in the Black Hand to maintain the ALL SILENT protocol," the man vanished in the darkness again as Zadicus thumbed an instrument to his ear and said, "TOC this is ENVOY, report on the status of package and TOP side."

Zadicus nods knowingly, as if something was speaking to him without her hearing about it as he gave a reply, "Roger that. ENVOY is now heading for 2nd target area. Send surviving enemy combatants to the Tomb for processing."

So, maybe it wasn't exactly her fault that she felt this way for Zadicus. But having a man that wield such power and one who sits near the throne of a foreign kingdom, well she couldn't be helped I guess. Having his power wash over her was an experience she would welcome again, it was warm and comforting, like there would be nothing that could harm her at all. Like everything would be all right for her, as such, she has placed her loyalty now in their hands. She had submitted her side of the organization to them and perhaps, if possible, her colleagues could see the way forward.

Though she hardly believes they would.

.

"The influx of black market goods from the Karnassus City-State Alliance is going smoothly, however we have a problem with the Azerlisia Mountain."

"And what seems to be the issue?"

The head of the Black Market group looked down on his parchments and read a few information, "Currently, with the establishment of the Unified Eldar Kingdom, plus the resurgence of the Dwarven Kingdom as well, roads through the Azerlisia Mountain pass is safe for travelers, except for those of illicit nature. Because of that our caravans and outriders need to skirt the Forest of Tob towards E-Ravael and pray that the minions of Marquis Raeven does not spot us."

"Did you not have the legitimate passes from the merchant guild?" the leader of Eight Fingers asked coldly, "Are they ineffective?"

"No they're good actually for the bulk shipments and the trade caravans, but rush shipments especially for illicit contrabands-"

"-like what?"

"-for example, grain. You might think it simple enough however, to move grain one must first shuck the grain to remove its outer layer. This makes it conducive for immediate use, but a shucked grain cannot be used for planting anymore. Additionally, we cannot simply import large amounts of grain, there are paper works for that. Not including the numerous alchemical potions that are deemed illegal by the Kingdom. Plus, the plantations for our 'White Snow' is along the way and our riders pick up shipments of the drug and it is simply too cumbersome and too dangerous to include it with the 'legitimate' shipments."

Cocco Doll sighed as well, "I need further security with the Elven slave shipments as well. Ever since the elves took back the Forest of Tob, each and every shipment of Elven slaves I got always gets raided when it ventures too near the forest. I have to enter Fortress Cities and bribe guards and officials just to let us through, the added cost is very taxing for business I tell you."

"Either we have our security department charge us less or we're going to have to close shop."

A bald muscle man with a tattoo on his face grinned, "You're exaggerating too much Cocco, I'm already giving you discounts on my group's services. Want it to go lower even more? My men wouldn't want to accompany your caravans anymore then how about that?"

The affable leader of the Slavery Department noticeably sweated, "I'm not demanding or asking from the Security Department Zero, just asking if we have other means to cut back on cost."

"Our aim is to control the underworld, command the black market and increase our wealth," the leader of Eight Fingers interjected, "With the recent resurgence of these Kingdoms, is there nothing that we can do to penetrate these new markets. How about the new City of the Undead is there hope to at least know what business we can get inside?"

"So far, we have nothing to say, there is just simply no one to bribe. The very few merchants that passed through that city of death spoke of government efficiency and a bunch of other things like undead as civil servants. It all sound like a fantasy to me so I dismissed it."

Cocco Doll shook his head and sighed, "It seems that legitimate avenue being pursued by Hilma was one of the only chance we actually have in getting inside that death trap."

"Unfortunately, we cannot dwell on such things, perhaps we can persuade that merchant," the head of the gambling department interjected, "But that would be a gamble that they would just return to the Baharuth Empire and abandon their people here."

Suddenly an urgent knock came from the door as an underling that directly reported to the Head of Eight Fingers bowed respectfully before heading to his Master's side and whispered in his ear. The hooded man visibly stiffened as he also nodded and his servant opened a door behind him.

"I have just received a report that there has been no word forthcoming through Message on the guards at the mansion, it appears we are under attack. Zero as head of security take care of this personally as this attack is a serious blow to your reputation, our meeting is adjourned until further notice."

"Its going to be expensive."

"It's fine, deal with it. We will split the payment."

"As you wish."

The head of the organization vanished through the heavy door that the servant opened and locked behind him. The other head of their groups also stood up as Zero gave a wry grin at his leaving comrades. One by one the executives of each department left through secret passageways in pairs. Patiently he waited as he heard footsteps outside of the room, whoever attacked them was good. The fact that they were alerted only at the very last minute means that their adversary was quick and powerful.

'This should be good.'

The double doors leading to the secured meeting room of the leaders of the Eight Fingers opened wide as an armored man stepped inside followed closely by 2 men in hooded cloaks carrying rods of exotic unknown weapons. Bringing up the rear was the Head of the Drug Trade, Hilma Cygnaeus, still dressed in the silk dressing gown she wore awhile ago.

"So, you've gone ahead and collaborated with the authorities now Hilma? I'm actually surprised that King Barbro allowed you to raid us?"

"Make no mistake, this endeavor is not in anyway led by any paltry faction of the Re-Estize Kingdom," Zadicus declared proudly as his sharp eyes met the condescending ones of Zero, "I have come to bring the whole Eight Fingers to heel and to shape up this organization into a group that would bring honor to my esteemed Lords."

"You would put us to heel? You would fight the largest criminal organization in this continent? And here I thought you legitimate merchants take yourselves seriously," the bald man gave a deep rousing laugh as he stood up and snapped his fingers. From the shadows of the room, five figures stepped out as the rest of Six Arms surrounded the Angel and his escorts.

"You seem to overestimate yourself merchant, you are here in our midst and you wants our servitude?" Zero growled at that, "Tell us, what would happen if we would answer unfavorably to your preposition?"

"You will all suffer above all I assure you."

Zero grinned at that, "Tell me, do I look like the kind of man who can't take suffering? I, who have fought and survived a hundred battles, killed and slain all monsters and beast the 3 Kingdom has to offer. You will have to do better than that to intimidate me merchant!"

"I did not come here to intimidate, merely to offer a chance of mercy. One chance to spare yourself death and suffering and to yield before the might of the Sorcerer King and the Warmaster," Zadicus still had not moved even though the members of Six Arms surrounded him, "If you raise your arms in opposition, then it will be taken that you have raised your arms against the Sorcerer King and the Warmaster. Make no mistake that your fellow executives will be tracked down and they will be given the same choice. Quite frankly I still don't know why our Lords would extend such mercy on scum like you, but who are we to go against their wishes."

"This is so good to be true," Zero chuckled at that as he gestured to the other members of Six Arms, "Tell you what, why don't I give you a handicap and let those guys beat you down first."

"Jeez, your tiring us out too much boss," a man with red hair wearing a black coat with golden gilding on the shoulders and upper chest that extended to his pair of pants readily stepped forward, a thin sword hung on his hips as he gave a beaming smile towards the merchant. He sighed as he stood in front of his comrades, "At least let us introduce ourselves you know. I am known as 'Thousand Kills' Malvist, the pleasure is all mine."

A man covered in articulate plate armor sidled next to him and also drew a wavy sword, "It was unwise to have come back here Lady Hilma, Peshurian at your service."

"My name is the Dancing Scimitar, Erdstrom, try to remember my name," a dark-skinned woman wearing a middle-eastern dancer's dress flitted between the two men as she drew three scimitars who danced in synch around her. A hooded man kept silent on the side as another hooded person stood behind all of them and held up an 'Orb of Power (Fire/Lightning)'.

"And I am Davernoch, and you mortals would soon learn that I am the 'real' Undead Kin-"

A wave of pure rage momentarily bloomed out from Zadicus that stunned everyone into silence.

"Your manners are noted and you will forgive me if I feel your epithet does not match your current-," the Angel gestured to the general area of the Undead Lich, "-disposition. Your presumption to use such a title besmirches my Lord and the only one who deserve such a lofty name!"

In a blink of an eye, Zadicus pulled out a glistening rod of power and struck the undead lich on the arm. The weapon continued in its swing as the undead disintegrated and only a ghastly cry of pain could be heard as Davernoch was 'cleansed' by the holy weapon.

Surprise was on all their faces as he appeared next in front of Erdstrom and smacked her with the end of his rod. The woman's head was struck and her neck bent in an uneven angle as blood sprayed out from her lips. Malmvist ducked while Succulent vanished in a puff of smoke as Peshurian swung his sword towards the Angel as he called out.

"[Void Slash]"

The flimsy sword struck Zadicus in his gauntleted arm as sparks flew from the hit that was made, but he overextended his attack and was unable to counter as the holy rod came from the top and caved his plate helm in. Grasping in thin air, the Angel grabbed the invisible Succulent's neck and snapped it like a twig. Malmvist drew his sword back to position an attack, but the Angel was too fast. He spun around and smacked the sadistic man in the knee, which made him kneel to the ground and then followed up with a palm strike breaking his jaw and jarring his head unconscious.

It was over in a matter of seconds.

Hilma's eyes widened as she finally understood how powerful this agent of the Sorcerer King was in the first place. To slay the best members of the Six Arms, the security department of their organization in a blink of an eye,

.

He has to admit, that merchant was really good.

Stepping forward he cracked his knuckles loudly as his eyes met Zadicus own, the two combatants approached and faced each other. His gaze lingered on his crumpled subordinates as he gave a sly grin towards him.

"Ready to die?"

"Are you?"

Zero breathed deeply as he channeled all the strength he could muster against his enemy, being a shamanic adept, he could channel the powers of the animals he had slain and tattooed on his body for use in combat. Coupled with his monk class, he was the most powerful hand to hand combatant in the Re-Estize Kingdom. Seeing that his comrades all fell against their adversary, he deduced that taking down this merchant would need his full power.

Channeling the strength of the panther on his legs, falcon on his back, the rhino on his both arms, the buffalo on his chest, and the lion on his head.

He felt a surge of power explode within him as the shamanic symbols suffused him with raw immense power. The increase in his power and strength was noticeable as his muscles bulged and his body grew taut with all the force pouring inside him.

"HAAAHHH!" exhaling forcefully as he released a momentary feeling of worry as he felt his heart might bursts with the effort.

The 'Battle Demon' reared his right fist back as he took a step forward, and another, and another. With every step the stone floor seemed to crack until Zadicus was finally in range.

The speed and power on his fist was so much for a human that he almost missed the target. His senses slowed as the large fist flew towards the armored merchant, Zero the head of the Security Division of Eight Fingers, in a blink of an eye with such perfect transference of energy, punched Zadicus in the chest and unleashed his power. The eyes of his adversary widened as the shock of the blow overwhelmed his senses.

'Regret that you foolishly waited for me to come close, the strongest man in Re-Estize!'

The fist crumpled the plate armor as the power erupted from his fist like an explosive blast, and Zadicus was flung backward towards the solid wall where he struck his head and he slid down on the cold floor like a marionetted with its strings cut. No sound of breathing, lifeless and not even an involuntary twitch.

It was an instant death.

This was the power of Zero, a one-hit kill technique combining shamanic magic and strength of Martial Arts.

-Or that was how it was supposed to go.

But Zadicus did not budge an inch, not even the armor he wore was damaged at all. He took the full brunt of the blow without even flinching an eyebrow. It was a feat that overturned all common sense and Zero's mind could not catch up to what his eyes were seeing. He should have obliterated his enemy with that strike, by all means his enemy should have been dead, his fist could even pulverize the strongest mithril armor.

It didn't make sense, how could he survive that at all. Zero was still too stupefied with the enemy that he failed to notice Zadicus rear his own fist back and gave him a solid retaliatory punch on the chest. A gust of wind blew behind the bald man as he felt a dull thud on his chest.

Perhaps it was a blessing as the coldness gripped his body as he looked down and saw a gaping hole on his chest, coughing blood out of his lips he shook his head and said, "Heh, what the fuck are you-"

.

A few weeks later after the bloody event, Hilma sat in front of her desk as she read the reports of the numerous crime lords in every city within the Re-Estize Kingdom. Unifying the different branches had not been easy, but it was swift and brutal. Unexpectedly, the escaped heads of every division were too stubborn and held onto their division's power.

Zadicus assured her that they would be dealt with easily and again he did not lie.

Within a span of days, the head of the divisions were sent black scrolls indicating instructions that they would need to follow to show that they would submit to the authority of the Sorcerer Kingdom. Foolishly they ignored the letters and unsurprisingly one by one they vanished into thin air. Each and every head of the division was taken by black hooded members of the Black Hand and sent to the Great Tomb where the greatest brainwas- err, educators are located at. The other Guardians suggested to just kill them all then start again, but the Supreme Being and Demiurge had an idea to interject and decided that having a new head take control may bring up more harm than good. Plus the contacts that the previous leaders made was invaluable in keeping the Eight Fingers together in ruling the underworld. As such, they were given to Kyouhukou and Neuronist to make them pliable and submit to servitude under Ainz Ooal Gown.

As such, while her colleagues are being re-educated, her decision to submit to the rule initially spared her from such a fate. Instead, it thrusts her to the forefront of the organization and handling the myriad tendrils of the group. From gambling, prostitution, larceny, racketeering, slavery, fraud banking, smuggling and assassinations.

She never knew that the roots of their organization was so ingrained into the Re-Estize Kingdom that if they should vanish then the political aspect, mainly the Noble Faction, could collapse considering most nobles had the proclivity to circumvent the proper channels and more akin to committing fraud against one another.

'No wonder Prion Polson got so freaking rich, he practically had the Re-Estize Bank under his paw considering he had a hand on the transactions on multiple demesnes inside their Kingdom.'

Hilma had been clean and sober for days now and her new found clear headedness made her more focused on the task set forth to her by the Supreme Beings. She was tasked to have all the forces of Eight Fingers to fill their warehouses with food, lots and lots of it and ensure to get each and every surplus by any means necessary. Also, Zadicus wanted her to send out scouts to target all the granaries and warehouses used by the Kingdom, including what is stored inside.

It didn't make sense to keep all the goods hidden, but who was she to question the will of her new masters. What's important was that she obeyed to the letter and stayed loyal to the Sorcerer King. The mysterious undead monarch of the Sorcerer Kingdom and to the unknown master of Zadicus named Samuel, a person wrapped in mystery that all the things they knew about him was what they all heard from his representative.

Stamping on a piece of paper, it was directions on a large cache of weapons delivery to the Abelion Hills, it was pilfered by a gang on E-Urovana due to the ramping up of activities because of the mobilization of the whole Kingdom to take back E-Rantel. Not to mention numerous food carts, supply carts and treasure carts have been pilfered before, during and after transit. It was inevitable of course, the sheer size of the bureaucracy of the nobility and the ensuring red tape and corruption was detrimental to the realm and with more nobles that are more concerned on lining their pockets, it would soon be impossible to raise up this corpulent giant of a nation.

.

.

Draconic Kingdom Capital

.

A horse-drawn cart pulled up to the city gate of the capital as they arrived from their travels for the past 2 days. Their last foray outside of their sworn nation produced mixed results, they were still paid handsomely for their trouble. But the outcome that they were made aware of looked quite bleak especially for the Baharuth Empire. The watchman took their document of safe passage, looked down and perused it carefully, he returned it to the driver of the carriage and waved them away.

"Welcome back to the city, you are directed to head back to the castle. You were due to come in more than a week ago."

The driver grunted and shrugged his shoulders, "We can't do anything about it, we weren't even expecting to live through what ever hell-hole we crawled out of."

"Still, you would do well to go back to the castle quickly, the Queen has been expecting you."

Kunai sighed deeply as he looked at his passengers, the rest of 'Divine Wind', who were also silent and contemplating on what to do sat tiredly on the floor of the card. Finally, their leader 'Yari' turned to him and said, "To the castle."

"As you wish boss."

.

Lurching to a stop, they alighted the card as they looked up the steps going into the castle. Two exhausted looking guards were waiting at the door and merely gave them cursory glances as they trooped past them. They turned on a bend and came face to face with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom, 'Yari' and the man went eye to eye as the somewhat elderly man jumped in surprise.

"When did you get back?" the older man's heart hammered through his chest, "We thought you were all dead."

"It was touch and go," the man named 'Yari' replied as he and his companion was led to a small modest meeting room and they all took their seats as the older man stopped on the door and listened to him, "-and to be honest, I thought we would be buried over there."

"Yet you are all here."

"With sheer luck and the unexpected sacrifice made by the client."

"Paradyne?"

"The same," Yari sighed as they continued walking, "He fell inside that Tomb."

"Nevertheless, you are here, I will send you food and inform the Queen that you have all arrived in one piece."

Yari gave a slight nod as they all slumped on the plush seats, hungry and exhausted they waited patiently for the food to come along while taking small sips of the wine that was left for them. True to the Minister's word, food was brought in after a scant 15 minutes wait of pastries and warm meat stew. It wasn't extravagant considering they were dining in the palace, but the large army of the Beastmen Kingdom was already invading the outermost cities and he was sure that they would reach the Capital by then, hence the obvious rationing of food. Yari shook his head, for years the Beastmen would carry out raids to their territory and carry off a few of their human captives never to be seen again. But in recent years, their raiding activity became bolder and bolder until such time that it became a full-blown invasion. The very first city that was besieged was taken after almost 5 months of fighting, starvation and having the Beastmen's most terrible members being brought to bear.

And unlike the rag-tag arrangement of the Beastmen in the Abelion Hills, the Beastmen Kingdom was unified into a somewhat quasi-barbaric society that recognized the strongest species of the beast as its de-facto ruler.

Unlike before, the Theocracy would go to the Draconic Kingdom and 'cull' the tribes beyond the borders of the Beastmen Kingdom. Thereby ensuring that their large number would be lessened and in case they did try to invade, the Kingdom would find it not too hard to defend itself. Unfortunately, the Theocracy has been besieged by events that threatened the stability of their own territories. As such, no help are forthcoming since the Cardinals have concentrated their efforts on the internal strife that's happening within their own borders.

For the first time in almost a century the Draconic Kingdom must stand on its own against the spilling hordes of the Beastmen Kingdom.

Both the monarchy and its citizen know that they are woefully unprepared to fight such a challenge and the Queen is now faced with a decision to either send a request of help on all nations near their borders or try and batten down the hatches. A decision not taken lightly since asking for help from another nation constitute basically admitting that your rule is weak, that you do not have the strength to rule or defend your borders. Yet how does one defend against the tide of death brought upon by the endless horde of Beastmen coming from their kingdom beyond the mountain range. The members of the Worker group 'Kaiten' was in the middle of their late dinner when the door opened again and a middle-school looking girl strode inside carrying a glass of wine followed by the haggard looking Prime Minister.

Queen Draudillion strode towards the head of the table, sat herself down and poured a cup of wine as she looked 'Yari' in the eye.

"So? What happened?"

"Your Majesty!" the Prime Minister almost pleaded with the Queen, "There is a protocol about meeting other people, not to mention your state of dress and decorum as well- please let them eat in peace."

"Oh please, 'Kaiten' knows me well, no need to maintain decorum and act all high and mighty behind the trappings of royalty."

The Prime Minister shook from head to toe and grabbed the wine bottle from the young Queen and said in a condescending voice, "Well, if that is the case, I shall take this wine bottle and keep it in lock and key so that it can be served to any dignitary who would grace us with their presence."

"-but I want that!" the Queen jumped away from her seat and tried to grab the bottle that the Minister held above his head, just out of reach of his monarch, "It's already open damn it!"

"No means no, if you must debrief 'Yari' then have the self-respect to do it sober."

"Please, I need wine to think," the Queen was basically begging at this point, "I'll throw away your hair tonic!"

The Prime Minister abruptly closed the door behind him unhearing of his own liege's plight, the young looking Queen gave a tired sigh and gestured for the half-empty wine bottle that 'Kaiten' was consuming. They resumed eating as the Queen poured the wine out of her commandeered wine bottle, Yari gave a small grin as the childish monarch tipped the wine glass in one go.

"How did it go?"

"We have scouted for any talent that we could, tried to recruit them as well, but no amount of cajoling can be done to get the truly talented and powerful to come. Although we have found truly skilled and powerful individuals, not all of them are not as charitable as you imagined. Others are tied by duty, while others are simply too far, or too unwilling to lend their aid."

The Queen nods her head as she poured another serving on her cup, "Then we are alone. How about the Baharuth Empire?"

"They have their own problems right now, I don't think they'll send their legions past the Wyvern Rider lands and their shared border with the Karnassus Union and the Azerlisia mountains."

"I heard the Elves have been unified?" Draudillon took a small sip from her wine glass considering its her last one, "Any news on that?"

"Not only that, the Dwarven Kingdom is currently experiencing a resurgence in their prominence and those lost to the wilderness are slowly trickling back. Even the Black Dwarves in the Abelion Hills are marching piece by piece to go back to their old homes," Yari cleaned the rest of his plate as he took a final swig of his own wine, "The Sorcerer Kingdom though is an entirely new Kingdom ruled by the Undead."

"I don't suppose you asked them to send help right?"

"I did-"

"PFfft!" the Queen blew wine out of her nose, teary-eyed she asked, "How- wha- why?"

Yari sighed and said, "Let me take you back after what happened to our job within the Baharuth Empire."

.

.

.

To be continued

.

Antoine scratched the coarse fabric of his tunic as he fixed the satchel hanging on the side of his body. All around him the faces of his neighbors looked worried and haggard as they tightened their armor and gear around them. Doing the same actions he also affixed his shoulder armor and tightened the straps holding it into place. The gloves he had was standard issue by the duchy of E-Pespel as they got mobilized and began to answer the call to arms. He sighed heavily as he looked at the barren sea of harvested stalks of grain, due to the loss of E-Rantel the annual skirmish with the Baharuth Empire has been put on hold and not even the Emperor would dare cross that unknown land between his lands and the 'new' fortress city of E-Pespel.

Yes, now that E-Rantel is lost to the undead, it is up to their fairly large city to blunt any attacks coming from the borders considering they are now THE border.

Donning his leather boots which was used of course considering only the knights and the nobles use new or better weapons, the plebian such as he was left with the litter of the crop. Still he was not alone in this sentiment as his peers looked more distressed than him, he walked over to the weapon and armor rack and took a simple skull cap. He took a spear from the rack and shouldered it, he wiped the semi-dust on the top of his breastplate, an armor that was a standard issue of their duchy and stepped outside into the sun.

The morning mist had already dispersed due to the heat of the day as he walked over to his mustering area, the main formation of the Re-Estize Kingdom was just passing through as he saw their King-Regent, donning his black and blue plate armor and sitting atop his horse as they marched towards E-Rantel. He sighed once more as he heard the adjutant of the Marquis Pespea, the noble that ruled over them already forming them into line.

"Forward and form your lines!"

He walked towards the forming line of his peers as all around them the peasant levy of the Re-Estize Army was mustered to its full.

On the front, King-Regent Barbro rode on his majestic horse while Marquis Boullope rode beside him.

"Your Majesty, I am happy that all preparations are all going smoothly. Scouts report that the border has an excellent 2 lane paved road leading up to E-Rantel."

"A paved road towards E-Rantel in less than a year?" Barbro's brow furrowed, "What fortune it is that they have given us the means to attack them so easily. How are the siege engines?"

"They are being transported as we speak your Highness, in a week we would be arriving in the outskirts of E-Rantel and they would not be able to do anything about it."

The King-Regent grinned, "Yes, an army of 300,000 men should be more than enough to retake E-Rantel and subjugate the Undead Lich who proclaims itself a 'King'."

"What about the adventurers who agreed to subjugate the Sorcerer King?"

Barbro sighed at that, "Red Drop is currently on assignment at the Argland Council States, Blue Roses is under the employ of my sister and have sent them out on an errand to travel to the Forest of Tob and to check on that Elven City."

"Perfect timing, too perfect actually. Did she not cooperate to retract her somewhat exclusive contract with Blue Roses?" the Marquis rubbed his chin, "I really thought she would cooperate."

The eldest of King Ranpossa's children gave a dark grin, "Careful of my sister Marquis, out of all the people in the palace she is the only one you don't try to manipulate unless you would like to find yourself pulled into a compromising position to get out of."

"What do you mean?"

"My brother Zanac once teased our half-sister to death when we were younger, one afternoon things went overboard and Zanac began to distance himself to our sister," the King-Regent gave a small laugh, "I've never seen that half-twit troubled before and so I thought it had something to do with his duties as a 2nd Prince. Later in the day, I learned that he spirited away Renner's favorite porcelain doll and hid it in the Palace Library as a prank. They said that Zanac was so afraid and hurried to give the doll back that he never spoke of that event again."

"What did Princess Renner do?"

The Crown Prince shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know, Zanac apologized to Renner and never spoke of it again. They still speak to each other, but I know my brother fears our half-sister, for whatever reason that is, I care not to know."

"Since Blue Roses is out of the question how about Darkness? Isn't he the one that was able to evade the Undead Armies of the Sorcerer Kingdom?"

"Yes, although I heard he got an S-Rank job for Raeven, it seems he has not come back from that yet."

"Well, I suppose we need to just work with whatever we have."

Marquis Boullope passed Antoine as the peasant militia shouldered his weapon and began marching. Thinking back on what he overheard from their esteemed King-Regent, he concluded that even on top of their throne or clad in the most expensive of armor. The members of the ruling class were still human and susceptible to mistakes and tragedy.

Hopefully, this action that they undertook would not end in tragedy, but one does not look for peace in an army marching for war.

.

.

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

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The Bridge of Baka-Doom is a play on words of the name Bridge of Khazad-Dum. A bridge inside the Dwarven City of Moria that Gandalf broke to stop the Balrog from leaving the mountain in the first place. Additionally, Baka-Doom also means foolish death considering the word 'Baka' is the Japanese word for fool.

The Hyo-On spell is actually a term coined by the Japanese in regards to preserving food. It is approximately -2 to -12 degrees Celsius. It was the zone where a food or drink is not chilled nor is it frozen.

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

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Cheers,

Scarabeye3000