Chapter 6: The Order of the Blood Rose
Years Earlier
Six men were walking down the middle of the busiest street in the Vassal State of the Kingdom at the front was Baron Brain Bloodfallen Gown the Captain of the Order of the Blood Rose behind him to the right was Jinx Callas a young noble that reminded Brain of now King Climb but was very talented with the sword. Behind him to the left in formation was Haldor Broncus and mountain of a man of noble blood and extremely loyal to Brain. Behind Haldor was Nardal Filmont a tall dashing man known for his love of the ladies and behind him was Dragone Balfor a short stocky man with the pride of the knights of old. Bringing up the rear of the six man formation was the youngest of the Order Macoran Kingston, provisional knight of the order and squire.
Hurry up Macoran or we will leave you to the beasts, Brain bellowed as the rest of his men started to laugh, Dragone gave him a hard slap on the back which made him miss a step and trip.
"Y-yes your excellence I will do my best," The nervous youth replied as this was his first mission, they could all clearly be identified by the cross on their masks.
The Order of the Blood Rose was a special force put together by the King to take care of delicate situations among the nobles, dangerous missions within the walls of the Kingdom Vassal State that adventurers could not take care of also diplomatic protection. The six knights of the Blood Rose were the organization's tip of the spear while at headquarters there were intelligence companies that used spies to gather information, regular soldiers for larger scale operations as well as a full logical team to back the knights up whenever needed. The knights were those who stood at the top of the organization created a few years ago after the Kingdom's annexation into the Empire of Nazarick.
To be a knight you had to meet three criteria: First you must be of noble blood or hold a noble position, second you had to be a vampire, third you had to be handpicked by the Baron of Blood himself Brain Bloodfallen Gown. The knights were easily identified by two things first the mask they wore had an upside down cross over the right eye. Second, the Nazarick military uniform that they wore had crossed swords behind the three rose emblem, the punishment for impersonating a knight was immediate execution despite the strict rules little boys in the kingdom looked up to them and every young man wanted to be them and would often fashion copies of crude masks to play Knights.
As they walked through the market everyone stopped and bowed not because Brian was an untouchable with the name of Gown but because of the respect they had for the Knights. They had all read stories of the men fighting of hordes of rebel goblins and Orcs outnumbered ten to one and emerged victorious. Although they did participate in regular Army missions to build reputation their main job was the dispatching of "beasts" which was a code word for noble vampires that gave into the bloodlust and turned feral killing innocent villagers. Once a noble went feral there was no returning to normal and by the direct order from the Emperor they were to be killed without trial immediately. As long as the vampire ruling class drank the blood of bulls and goats there was no chance of turning feral but to drink human blood was taboo. All vampires had a yearning for the hunt and giving into their primal side but it was a desire that could be suppressed with self-control.
As Brain was walking he thought about how one of the organizations spy's had uncovered an underground group of nobles that had formed a group and took part in gruesome rituals. Worse yet they had heard that some of the nobles turned their own vassals to vampires which was strictly prohibited. Even admitting to being a vampire to someone who was not a noble in the Kingdom was punishable by death. Those in the group had taken the magic masks off made by the God Emperor and were wearing false ones so they could not have their speech monitored. With that being the case they now had narrowed the group to three nobles with adjacent land to the south that contains three large villages. The operation to purge these heretics would happen soon but Brain had not told his team yet as it was still in planning and one careless word could compromise the whole operation.
Today's mission was nowhere near as exciting he was escorting former Emperor and current Tribune Jircnic Tune Farlord el Nix Sapoto of what used to be the Empire but was the first nation to become a vassal state and then absorbed into Nazarick proper after Emperor Ainz heard that he tried to ally with the Slane Theocracy after Ainz had faked his death. Normally he would of beheaded him but the only reason he was alive was because he worth more to Nazarick alive than dead. His position was not that bad but Jircnic was not well liked as he was seen as the mastermind of the massacre of the Kattsee plane that killed over 180,000 men. It was rare to find a person who did not know someone who did not die in that battle so he was widely hated.
The mission was simple the tribune was to arrive at the Kingdom borders by his own request the Knights were to accompany his chariot to the Capital and then the castle. He could have used the newly formed Black Brigade the first interspecies Army unit but Jircnic was paranoid of the Elf Battalion. This was because a large portion of their economy was based on the slave trade of Elves. This meeting was for the Kingdom and former Empire Vassal States to agree on improvement on transportation and trade agreements with Queen Renner Sapato and no doubt Shalteer would be their learning about running a nation Brain laughed as he imagined her filing her nails during the entire negotiations. Normally only small concessions would be made and most meetings like this would be fruitless but if everything on the agenda was handed down by Emperor Ainz was not accomplished one of his assistants would be sent to "encourage" them to reach an agreement. Emperor Ainz was an absolute ruler but to the people of Nazarick felt they lived in a nation that was freer than they lived in before but that was a false illusion they believed in just like Momon.
Baron Brian Bloodfallen had throughout his time in the Kingdom Vassal State of Nazarick had become to be known as the Baron of Blood this was not because he was a vampire but simply a play on his name. It was also a widely known fact that the Knights of the Blood Rose had spilt more blood than any other military unit within the Kingdom. Brian was revered tribune Jircnic was not beloved and was often the target of attacks hence the reason the Knights were to escort him from the territory given to him by God Emperor Ainz to the Capital of the Kingdom state. Brain and his men mounted their horses and made their way to a rendezvous point. Once they made their way to the border he saw an extravagant chariot guarded by fifteen men and a death knight. More than enough man power but showed the attitude of a man who was constantly looking over his shoulder.
Brian dismounted and reached into his side satchel to remove the authentication papers that identified the knights from the King himself. The tribunes precession stopped and the lead guard dismounted, he had recognized the man in front of him, everyone in the Empire knew who Brian was who held the untouchable name of Gown. As the lead guard approached him he said,
"Please Baron Gown put the papers away we trust that no dark magic would go unseen by the God Emperor's Kin to deceive the tribune!
Brain smiled and looked at the guard, "You do me great honor I feel your ambition will go far in this new nation, continue to serve Nazarick and all thy desire shall be yours."
The guard smiled because he knew this to be true as Brian was born of common blood and now was a Barron. Brian almost felt like Emperors Ainz pet as he was told to say things like this all the time and he was the poster child of the Kingdom of rags to riches story. The fact was the Aristocracy was already set but this was never talked about one could become rich but to hold a title the Emperor himself would have to see potential in the person first.
Brain along with the unnamed guard walked up to the coach of the Tribune Jircnic Sapoto as they approached the coach the door swung open and the Tribune hopped out and bowed to the Baron, "Baron Gown it is good to see you well again I heard that you and your wife are trying to have children may fortune smile upon you!" Brain smiled and walked up and grabbed the Tribune's shoulder "No need for formalities Jircnic we both were resourceful enough to make it through the purge, how is life treating you and moreover have you finally settled down and taken a wife you know not having a wife and two children is considered treason?" Jircnic smiled it was widely known he had over a dozen illegitimate children but never married. In their few meetings with Ainz he was told to get married and have two children one boy and girl and then pick an heir to educate but none of his children seemed to show ambition, they all were too busy running around the Capital of Nazarick going on exotic vacations also to games at the stadium and Balls every night to care about much else. Jircnic said, "As far as an heir… no you probably have heard of their exploits in Nazarick but I now I have found one daughter to claim she shall be High Priestess of the main Temple of Nazarick in the capital but a son soon because we all know the God Emperor loves to play match maker or I will lose my head!" Brain and Jircnic both had a hearty laugh and promised to go have a drink after the negotiations were over.
Brain went back to his horse while Jircnic got back into his carriage the guards shifted to the Knights of the Blood Rose and set off to the capital. It was an uneventful trip as monsters were rare as the most dangerous things on the roads now were thieves and brigands that would rob people on the road but no thief was crazy enough to approach anything guarded with men who wore the distinctive black Nazarick Uniform. Even if there was one soldier on the road and a hundred of them that solider could turn into a dragon and kill them all or simply hit an alarm crystal and death knights would immediately come out of portals surrounding the soldier. If you were a thief or brigand that most likely meant you were a part of an Anti-Nazarick movement mostly backed by the past members of the Slane Theocracy that taught human superiority and these people were treated as back water trash and to be called a Slane was the ultimate offense in the Empire. Even living in the Empire that was the Slane Theocracy held a stigma to it most of the locals left due to persecution as they were treated as scapegoats. If you lived in the Slane district of Nazarick proper you were either very poor or a troll.
The Empire taught that all in the world's sentient beings are equal except from those who came from up from the blessed underground city of Nazarick they were as Gods and Ainz sat at the top the Supreme One. When it came to the subject of normal crime such as the drug trade, gambling and the black market it was an unknown fact was that all aspects of the drug and black market trade was dominated by the eight fingers controlled by Emperor Ainz himself. There was not one aspect of his Empire he did not control if he heard wind of rebellion he could simply have their markets flooded with narcotics and any ambition was destroyed before it began. Emperor Ainz even knew where the Slane camps were but did nothing as they were a useful tool to the Empire as scapegoats.
As Jircnic sat in his carriage he thought about the Barons words about the "Purge "and how he barely survived. If Jircnic had not came to the Emperor and confessed his crimes he would be facing a nightmare because for the enemies of the Emperor there are worst thing than death. He was able to redeem himself as acting like a spy (in the form of a political exile) for Empire and was instrumental in the takeover of the Kingdom by faking his own death and having his enemies attack him, The Empire was the first to submit to Nazarick's rule and become a vassal state but was later absorbed into Nazarick proper when Jircnic confessed his crimes. After the Empire of Nazarick sent out the adventurers and slowly expanded its borders demi-humans and hetermorphs villages, warlords, and small kingdoms were added to the Empire slowly one by one. This was all a part of Ainz's plan to create a Utopia; nations where Goblins and elves and a demi-human were equal and also accepted. This brought peace to the lands but also much displeasure to nobles of every type of race. For a time the God Emperor kept his silence and allowed the bigotry continue, useless border squabbles and hate crimes. This is when everyone found out about the God Emperor Ainz communication network of spies. In one night every noble who said a ill word about Nazarick, broke his laws, or even whispered displeasing word of the God Emperor were killed, well that's what everyone thought they simply disappeared and new nobles and men of ambitions were put in their place in the blink of an eye. Jircnic sitting in his cell thought he was a dead man but for some reason the Emperor allowed him to live. He released from prison and was summoned to the capital and was told that he knew of the of the secret pact he tried to make to fight him. He said that the only reason he was living was because he was worth more alive than dead it was a simple cold mathematical calculation and that was all. He said for what he had done to the elves and his treason he must be punished so the Empire was no longer a Vassal State but incorporated into Nazarick proper and that the land that used to be his he would still rule but he was stripped of his noble status a put into a purely political position of Tribune. He would also be a member of the Support house of Sapato for his honesty.
"You were a Good opponent and those who are talented I give them a chance to serve me just I did with Gazef and every other enemy, I give mercy to those who surrender as you did you could have tried to run but you came forward and told me of your plot instead of fleeing. Kiss my crest ring if you accept your new position"
Jircnic did not give it second thought he came forward and kissed the ring as a show of fealty.
"The Blood Emperor is no more from now on you are Jircnic Sapato but there are many wounds between the Empires people as penance from now on you will have to bow and serve the nobles of even the elves".
Since his priority was self-preservation he did not mind but did see the irony in his punishment was a peace offering to the elves of which they turned into slaves.
He must admit the plan was genius he made himself seem incompetent until all his enemies came out, they might as well as walked up to his executor and stuck out their necks. Genius truly devious sometimes he thought the God Emperor was of normal intelligence but he knew that was but an act and when his enemies found out it was not true the trap had already had taken their heads. This event of the disappearance of the nobles and leaders was widely known as the "purge" of course the inaction of this plan affirmed Lord Ainz's Godhood because there was no way any mortal being could know what he did the very whispers that were said in the bedchambers of noble men. Most of the population even thinks he can read the minds of everyone at once if he wishes.
Ainz was an undead but yet a total paradox in Jircnic he was not like any undead he had ever heard of he did not hate life like his Death knights or other litches which were pure evil. But yet he often had a feeling that he was human at one point also that he also hid his face and hands to hide his undead nature to the population, Ainz considered him a friend if that was a word of his vocabulary as he would often invite him to dine and talk about the troubles of leadership. The most extraordinary story he had ever told him was right before the Temple of Nazarick was created. Jircnic never believed in Gods he thought the theocracy were fools believing in the gods and he was proven right. One night Ainz told him that he was going to establish his new church naturally Jircnic thought it would be a state organized religion to worship Ainz but he was proven wrong….well sort of.
Ainz stood up and started to pace he first told Jircnic that he was so old he did not know his age so that is why everyone called him the eternal one. He told him in the beginning realm of the Gods was only a great tree in Yggdrasil of unimaginable beauty splendor and power and all life came from the tree. The Gods and every type of being were originally born in the realms of the World tree called Asgard; he explained that the ground they were standing on was a leaf on the great tree in the realm of Midgard. The amount of leaves on the tree were uncountable all holding worlds and the life blood that went through the tree and kept it alive was magic. That is where magic comes from the very lifeblood of the tree all was good in Yggdrasil although the Gods would challenge and kill each other but in Yggdrasil after they die they would reincarnate back as soon as they died. After a while a great war broke out and every god slaughtered each other for a thousand years and out of all that death the great tree trying to create balance birthed Death and his name was Ainz Ooal Gown. Ainz said he and he alone had the power to kill a god but he never did this was the ultimate taboo. His creation was to be a symbol to bring balance to the world once again.
He created a group of 41 Supreme Beings that were his friends and they ruled over the majority of Asgard and created the Tomb of Nazarick as their home. They were feared and respected all those that tried to oppose them were threatened with true death so their rule was withstood the test of eternity. Ainz explained that the only thing that never stopped in the realm of the Gods was change. The millennia that they ruled a brought peace to their realms they watched the tree wilt then on a day like any other an event occurred and the tree used too much energy to bring Ainz to life and could not sustain the life-force Gods in the realms. The tree in order to bring balance transported the Gods to other realms. He found himself and his servants along with the tomb in this new world. He realized that the gods were meant to go to each realm and rule them and help the people grow but since the Gods selfishly did not want to do so then the tree made sure that they would be sent. Since time flows differently in Yggdrasil the three gods of the Slane Theocracy and the 8 Greed Kings were all from this realm and knew them by name but they were all weaklings and that is why they were sent in groups because the tree divided the power of the Supreme Beings to each world to keep a balance of power and they died then the tree sent more beings until he was sent now alone. He laughed at the Slane Theocracies faith was a load of crap and Jircnic had a good laugh as well after getting over the initial shock of the story the origin of life.
The tribune thought that Ainz story sounded true but a skeptical man by nature, he also knew that if it was true that it could be used against him if there were other Gods. When he asked the gorgeous maids of Nazarick they all told him that the supreme beings created them in Yggdrasil and all of them explained the same story in their own way. He knew how to spread propaganda but there was no way to have everyone story link together like they did another interesting thing he found out was that the God Emperor's most powerful servant were more loyal to his friends that were Supreme beings. Curses! His one only weakness are Gods that are his loyal friends that live in another realm! Even before the expansion of the Empire he still could not use this information on Ainz he knew from the start this man was unbeatable and submitted first besides he it was widely known if he was killed he would simply come back …how could one kill death? Why did death even want to have a Kingdom? That's why he felt like he was human? Or maybe just maybe he was bored and came to this world to be amused and see what it was like to be a mortal and have a family and he really created all of his servants and made their memories with magic. This seemed plausible and also seemed possible. The one thing he did know was that he was no regular undead that simply hated the living giving as far as he could tell.
The unveiling of the church came quite as a shock as this meant there was a power greater than he the World tree and Ainz was its son. Worship of the tree started it was put on new money put into circulation with picture of the tree on it. Ainz did not make himself the center of the worship but the tree and how all life and power comes from it. This was the basis of his Utopia in his Empire to bring unity between all species. The demi-humans took to the teaching as well as the elves as they both worshiped nature in the first place. The humans had the most trouble casting aside old beliefs especially those from the Slane Theocracy but worship of the old gods was not forbidden as they were from the tree they had to be sure to call them the lesser gods even the greed kings were lesser gods of the pantheon with the forty two Supreme Being at the top. They had not decided where to place Momonga nor Aldbedo so they are referred to in scripture as the blessed ones who sit on the right and left of the Supreme Being. The religion of Nazarick explained the afterlife when one was dead and gone their life returned back into the tree to become magic or another being all together. This explained why resurrection magic worked as the life of the person flowed into the tree as magic and the same magic was put back into the corpse to bring it back to life. Churches were really just places to practice magic or a place to get healed, that was how Priests would make their money. There was scripture but the religion was of mostly oral tradition. Since Ainz had been in the world so long he believed his own lies about the story the human part of Ainz was nothing more than an after image. The main part of the story was the theme of the game he played and common knowledge for the NPC'S him being birthed by the Tree was nonsense but he believed it. Since he was the first to find out he made a deal with The Emperor he would choose a female heir he make her head of the main church, Ainz readily agreed.
"Remember you still need a son and a wife in five years" Ainz warned.
Jircniv thought as he made his way to the capital about when the Empire was called the Sorcerous Kingdom spread across the land .As the carriage made its way up to the castle Queen Renner Sapoto flanked by various dignitaries along with Baroness Shalteer Bloodfallen Gown and King Climb were all awaiting the arrival of Tribune Jircnic,. Brain was leading the procession and smiled at Shalteer while she gave a smirk back then moved her head as to not notice him. Brain knew his marriage was mostly symbolic and as they no longer slept in the same room and only saw his wife when called on. He was hunting death row convicts to try and activate his True Vampire Blood but nothing happened. This took a large toll on his mind as it increased his bloodlust. When his wife called for him he did not know if she wanted his blood or intercourse but a good bloodletting from his wife could decrease his bloodlust. He held the name Gown but he felt as far as Gowns go he was one mistake from making his head roll off. He was treated as a second class citizen in the tomb that is why he was happy to be in the Kingdom vassal state. The truth was that Emperor Ainz along with other Guardians were plotting the rebirth of Brian, but it had to be the perfect situation to awaken the True Vampire in him.
Tribune Jircnic Sapoto got out of the coach and approached Queen Renner Sapoto and bowed, the Queen extended her hand as he held it and kissed it saying "Tis a shame that such a lovely face should be covered up by a mask"
"May I remind you Jircniv that we are related the House Sapoto!" Renner said in disgust.
Renner quite familiar with the Tributes exploits took the words with a grain of salt. He then approached Shalteer and bowed and got on one knee and said, "Your beauty never fades Shalteer Gown for you are the picture of perfection I am not worthy of your site but touching a Gown would be worth the death penalty it would the law calls for,"
Before Shalteer was married Emperor Ainz passed a law that anyone who touched a Gown was to be put to death, which is why anyone of the family of Gown was known as the untouchable. Demiurge the Demon King was also given the name Gown and given leadership over the Empire of Nazarick secret police the most feared force in all of Nazarick. They were called the Red Skulls because they were the only force in Nazarick that wore a uniform with no adornments except for a cape that was black on the outside and red on the underside, "Death is just the beginning" was their motto and they made true of it. This is how the knowledge of the Demonic Baptism was made known and anyone who went through it would kill themselves before going through the horror again. No one knew what it was because the people who went through it could not explain it because they would break down and start crying before any information could be given. One fact was sure no one who went through the baptism could eat solid food ever again and could be identified by their skinny body. Demiurge was the most hated out of all the Gowns but this was by design and he kept out of the spotlight because gathering information was the biggest job of the secret police. Demiurge was so hated and feared that there were nursery rhymes about him taking away bad children in their sleep. Some people doubted he even existed because of the stories of his exploits were too gruesome for imagination.
The truth was is that Nazarick was a unified Empire of Vassal Kingdoms that were allowed to keep some autonomy as long as you did exactly what Ainz said. But it was also a total dictatorship and only those who were in leadership knew; the more you were promoted the less freedom you had. It was quite the paradox but those in power were forced to never share information with those outside of one's chain of command. The best place to be in a nation like this was a commoner as there were jobs for everyone, you could live out your life in blissful ignorance. The only people who could have the power and not totally be under the Empire's thumb was to be a rich merchant, Once you came into a fortune you would receive an offer you could not refuse, literally, which was to become a noble of Nazarick Vassal state which you resided and then the freedom you once had was gone. Commerce was fixed all rich merchants were nobles and were told who to sell to and how much for. It was not a bad deal as you would make more money than you were ever would make before but your freedom to go where you want and do whatever you want was taken from you in the name of national security and state secrets. Nobles who tried to rebel would hear a knock at their door and when they would come down and opened the door the red skulls would be there to take you to your baptism. You were not killed but made an example of to all the other local nobles that this could be you. In the time since the purge "rebellion" was nothing more than a noble talking to another trying to find ways to get around the system. When a noble was turned in they always knew who turned them in was usually the other noble or a member of their own family. Nazarick and the secret police were so feared that a wife would turn in her own husband for excessive revolutionary talk, because if it got bad enough the whole family would go missing. Rumor had it that the Demon King had his own underground lair that was literally hell on earth were parents would have to eat their own children to live and you would be part of his experiments for the rest of your life. You would die there and be revived again and again until you were of no use.
Such thoughts made JincnIc shutter as he thought about his statement perhaps he went too far while he thought of going through the demonic baptism to kiss a young lady ….no a monster's hand,
Shalteer replied, "Such a bold statement Tribune, I know why Lord Ainz keeps you around for a human you are quite amusing!"
What am I a pet? Jincnic thought, as he stood back up and kept his other formal greetings to a minimum to the cadre of people surrounding them.
He bowed and said "King climb looking young as always you must share with me your secret to your youthful appearance." Climb replied, "Some mysteries are best kept secrets and I assure you that most would be unwilling to commit for such a trivial thing Tribune," Jincnic had a clue that they were undead but that must never be uttered by capital offense but in Jicnic's way he loved to brush up against the rules as far as he could go.
Suddenly a voice from behind the Tribune spoke, "Unfortunately the Knights have a mission of utmost importance and we must go to headquarters at once, do accept my humblest of apologies, " Brian said. "Ah yes I hear this one comes from the very top even I have knowledge of this matter Barron so make haste and good luck to you and your Knights of the Blood Rose." Climb replied. Brain bowed and turned around as the knights were getting on their horses Climb looked at Renner and said" My queen normally I would not worry but this would be the first type of mission the knight would take part in of this magnitude considering it came from them"
Jirncnic curiosity got the better of him and inquired who "them" was? Suddenly everyone's faces became downcast even through the masks all but Shalteer who smirked. Jicrnic was about to apologize when climb said, "No, no reason to apologize I said it in front of you and it's only natural you would ask but the knights were given a mission directly from the secret police from the Demon King himself. Jircnic's body shuddered the red skulls were the nobles, boogeyman, or grim reaper but even worse. All had known someone who had a run in with them and no better way to end a conversation at a party than to mention the red skulls people were so afraid of them that the very mentioning of their name feared that they would make them appear.
Queen Renner clapped her hands and said" Enough with the unpleasantness I would guess that the Tribune is tired and would like to rest before negations so let us make our way to the castle. Everyone shuffled into two lines those who served the King and those that served the Queen and Shalteer walked in front of them both while Jircnic was walking at the back with guards bringing up the rear. As they walked in the maid directed Jircnic to his room as he plopped down on the couch a beautiful woman with her head down was standing in the corner. As they made eye contact, "I am a gift for tonight complements of Baron Gown and may I also say that it is my honor to serve a member of the Holy House Sapoto!" That old dog Jircnic thought, all that talk about marriage guess she is not a slave since slavery was outlawed so she must be a temple prostitute. That's good that means she is clean. The only prostitution that was regulated was through the temples to make sure there was no spread of disease as they could be healed by the priest. The women were volunteers and paid quite well the social stigma was not as great since she was an employee of the temple and this was a way to "worship" he almost laughed when he thought of that as the tenants of the Church of Nazarick and their temples. "All praise the Holy Tree" he said out loud, the women look up with large eyes and finished the verse "for it gives life and magic to all and birthed the Supreme One!" Jircnic was only joking but seeing how she got into he could tell he had a zealot. Within Jincic depraved mind he concocted devious ways to make this experience much more fun. "Come here sit down have I told you I have talked to the Supreme One…..?
The Headquarters of the Knights of the Blood Rose was not that far away from the Castle in the Capital of the Vassal state. The building was especially built for the knights so there was a stable in the back for their horses to ride into to. The building was made of a brilliant red and white rose quartz with the emblem of the Knights of the Blood Rose above the door on a shield making it look like an old noble's family flag, There were always children with wooden swords fighting each other in front of the building and people would stop to watch in the sparring area behind the building. When Brian rode up the stable boys ran up to take the reins of the horses to allow the knight to dismount. Brain knew the name of the lad who was brushing his horse and he looked a little pale,
"Godfrey why do you look so downcast boy in a few years you shall be working in the office and maybe a knight someday did not Macoran start as a stable boy?" "Yes I know that it true Lord Gown it is just that your family is here" the boy replied. "Family?" Brain blurted out before he thought about it, "Yes Sire your brother Demiurge of the Red Skulls are here to speak with you," the boy choked on his own words as he swallowed. "Ah yes my brother the Demon King as they call him although I would not call him that to his face, but cheer up boy you are what the boys see in the streets and they see that you are downcast then their dreams of taking your place will fade."
Brain tried to make light of the situation as much as possible joking around with the men before they entered Headquarters as he could tell they are all nervous. The Knights all lined up in formation in front of the HQ as per tradition with Brain standing in front of them all standing at attention.
"Now men we are going to get our mission and as you have already heard we are working with the secret police, do not use the name red skulls this is not their official title but a slang term, there are four members who are Evil Lords, Demiurge Gown, Greed, Jealousy and Avarice all members of the proud demon clan. Before you pass judgment remember that our Empress to be is also from the demon clan and her beauty has no comparison not even the Golden Queen can hold a candle to her. With that in mind we also uphold and protect all laws of Nazarick, so all those born of the world are equal except for those of Nazarick. All members of the secret police are from the great underground city of Nazarick and came from the realm of Gods Yggdrasil. Any offense that you might make is punishable by "rehabilitation" but if I were you I would fall on my sword before it got to that. Do not make eye contact and always bow your head, prostrate yourself in front of Demiurge Gown when he is addressing you. So now that I have given you my briefing any questions.?"
Brain's speech helped those who had any questions of protocol but made them wonder what kind of monsters awaited them in Head Quarters. If anything it made them more nervous the group though that was there any wonder why they are so powerful is because they all come from the realm of Gods. But wait they are from the realm of the Gods but not gods? How is this possible though young Macoran? "Sire I have a question" the young knight said. All the other knights sighed on the inside as they knew it was a rhetorical question but most likely the Captain would answer the young knight's question. " Yes Macoran go ahead and ask and it better not be about advice with women!" Everyone laughed hardily because they all knew Macoran was a virgin and also socially awkward because of that quirk in his personality he poured himself into sword fighting instead of going out on the town with his other noble friends and caught the eye of Brain.
"You said they came from the region of Gods but they are not Gods themselves? Is that possible?" Brain looked at him and said, " Yes this is a subject of much debate but it seems that many from Nazarick were created by Gods in the realm of gods so some think they are gods while other call them god-kin, does that answer your question. "Yes Sire" the young provisional knight said. "Now everyone let's fall in to the briefing room…KNIGHT'S MOVE OUT!" Brain yelled as the knights all went into the Headquarters building and by the look on everyone's face the secret police were waiting for them.
As they all entered the briefing room there was only one person sitting in a chair reading a file with his back to the door and his feet kicked up on the table. The first things the knights noticed was that he had a tail that was made of some metal covered and it was sharp like a sword and had six points that could kill a man. "Baron Brain Bloodfallen Gown it has been awhile how is family life treating you?" The Baron got on one knee and lowered his head and said, "Blissful as always I will forever be in debt to the Gown family for their generosity." Quicker that the human eye could follow Demiurge stood up and turned around shocking everyone in the room all the knights were too scared to even move. "You flatter my …ahem sister Shalteer as we both know she can be quite rash and generosity would not be a world to describe our family dear brother and the rest of you, why are you standing kneel." Due to Demiurges power and due to fear all the knights automatically kneeled some so hard they slammed their knees to the floor Brain sunk lower. "As you have noticed the rest of the squad is not with me they are on another mission but I think you can trust me that I am enough" Brian along with all of the other knights were now being crushed by his unleashed presence that acted like a weight that oppressed anyone near. Ainz could do the same thing to the guardians and will kill a humans with his full presence released.
"Brother I ask that you please release your presence as my knights now know the fullness of your power" Brian gasped." Demiurge smiled and said, "Um yes I forgot that I need to hold this in when I am around lowly undead very well it is done have your men each take a seat so I can tell you the mission dear brother." All the family talk was by direct order of Emperor Ainz or else Demiurge would have cut Brian's head off for such a comment but he must admit a royal family does help provide a unified front as this was a suggestion he made after many diplomatic missions. This was due to the fact that the creatures of this world did not understand the ways of the Tomb of Nazarick so all Guardians became "Family" and "Royalty". All the men suddenly jumped up they don't know if they did that or it was Demiurges power but everyone was impressed to be able to show off one's strength without even saying a word the Knights finally understood the impassable gorge of power that separated the god-kin and man. They all got to their seats and Demiurge said "sit" and all of them sat. Demiurge was at the head of the room pacing back and forth slowly as he turned. As the knights looked at him they noticed he had pointed ears like an elf and glasses but other than his tail that swayed gently there was nothing much different from a human.
"You might be wondering why you sat when I told you to, this is because I have a passive skill to force people to do things this is a passive skill nothing major one would have to have a very strong mind with extensive training to withstand this. Much like you as a vampire can hypnotize a regular human to tell you whatever information that you need but much more powerful. It is a very useful skill but as all of you have noticed when refining your skills that one skill cannot be relied upon to much as your other skill will suffer. Knowing when to use your natural weapons and when to use your enchanted swords also the element of surprise is useful as well. I have gathered from my intelligence that the news of your enchanted blades has finally been leaked which is a large disappointment."
Brain was speechless their swords were their trump card as they were enchanted to kill another vampire without needing to stab the heart and cut off the head of the opponents. Brain wondered was this the reason why Demiurge was here was due to an information leak?. Brain Gulped and thought about the baptism as he had been forced to watch once and never wanted anything to do with it again.
"If you are wondering why I am here it is not about the word of you enchanted swords getting out we figured that one out a month ago, it was the Noble family Rantets that has been orchestrating an uprising and used its family connecting to get the young youth Gunther de Rantets to give up said information he is undergoing rehabilitations as we speak. Brain wanted to vomit thinking about that young man and what he was going through if he had any idea he would have never done it.
"The reason I am here and may I remind you that this is a Nazarick secret code black of which you are not cleared for but I have a temporary waiver for you under said circumstances to never utter a word under penalty of rehabilitation. Is that the Reantets family has been backed by the Slane bigots with a powerful artifact that falls under my jurisdiction. Listen and listen clearly this comes from the top the acquisition of this artifact is priority one if you fail me on this mission you better die and hope we do not resurrect you. Why does this artifact come under my jurisdiction? As we all know the solidification of the Empire of Nazarick is paramount and there are still a couple of powerful ancient artifacts left over from the Gods realm that men think they can use against us. I am under an authority directly from the Emperor mission all of a sudden the room when white and black Brian noticed he was the only one moving. Omega which is to gather all ancient artifacts of a certain power level to be made into a weapon of unparalleled power," The last part Brain I just wiped from all you Knights minds that was for your ears only, and your old sword is the basis of that weapon.
Brain looked up and thought of his old sword Razors Edge that must be what he was talking about. "For who?" were the only word that Brian could choke out.
Demiurge smiled from ear to ear and said, "For the Prince of course!"
Brian thought about it and though, Ainz you crazy bastard What was the point? He could live forever he did not need to worry about an heir? Did he not hate life? Was he not undead? Yet here he is trying to create a Utopia for all humans and demihumans and now a son? Well he married Albedo and when he spent time in the Tomb that was the only thing he could hear her pester him about now that she won his hand. Brian could almost keep himself from laughing as he thought, "ah, what strange things women make us do even if they are Gods." The image of a henpecked God Emperor was almost too much for him.
Demiurge looked at Brain with utter disdain although he had the blood of a True Vampire he was from outside of Nazarick so there for impure and no more than filth. The very thought of him Marrying into his "family" and Lord Ainz who he devoted his entire being gave this trash his name was almost unbearable. He shot forward and the Demon king grabbed Brian by his head and raised him up. To Brain all time had stopped, Demiurge slowly raised Brian until they were face to face, "Listen here little Gown one day your name will not save you, I could crush your head like a grape SO WHAT IS SO FUNNY!"
All the life drained out of Brains face he had seen Demiurge in a mood before and he is not a man who gives idle threats. He once ripped every arm and leg off a Noble and healed him with magic so he would live like that for the rest of his life he truly was the Demon King.
"My sincerest apologies I was overtaken with joy by the prospect of serving the young lord." Brian said as he could feel his bones starting to break.
Demiurge countenance changed, Brain was relieved that he bought himself another day with his silver tongue. Demiurge let go of Brian, straighten his tie and hat as he always did and said, "I too am excited to serve his heir so I will accept your apology. When is classified but beware if you so much as disrespect my lord or lady again you will wish for death for as you know I have the Emperor's ear and do what I please." Brian knew this Albedo was first and Demiurge was in charge of things the Emperor thinks are beneath him.
Brian immediately prostrated himself again, "I am truly sorry Demiurge God of Demons I forgot my place this will never happen again." Brian realized he had been away from Nazarick to long and got to comfortable being a Baron doing and saying what he wished. In that short time he realized the awesome power the divided those from the underground city of the Gods Andrew humanity even though he was a vampire the Gap was just too big. Luckily the Emperor was a wise ruler as everyone knew he could kill everyone if he wished as he had seen on the Kattsee Plains .Emperor Ainz was a man who could make the Demon king who was in charge of the capital event and Momon both bend their knee in fealty the awesome power he had was incalculable.
Demiurge went to the front of the room again and said, "We will leave tonight and assault the Contrail village at midnight, the entire village had been turned so kill everyone on site hesitation to do so will result in your deaths. One last thing the enemy has found a way to counteract your swords so new spirit blades with runes will be given to you. All the Knights looked at each other happy as children getting new toys. "That is all I will meet you at the rendezvous point."
Demiurge slowly walked out of the room and out of site when everyone felt safe to talk Haldor spoke up and said, "I have always heard the stories of the Demon King but I think they are understated, Demiurge is Hell incarnate and I am sure as hell glad he is on our side!" Brian nodded in agreement, "The fights I have seen him in he has never taken a scratch the only blood that appears on him is his enemies." Macoran Kingston the youngest of the group was still shaking, "I just did not realize that a creature could be so powerful." Brain said, "Wait until you meet the Emperor he has the power to do that to Demiurge!" Everyone in the room was shocked "Oh it gets worse if the Emperor wanted to his very presence can kill you if he released his full Aura and just a bit can make you blind and insane." Suddenly the Knights of the Rose felt like insignificant bugs that could be squashed at any moment.
Brain sensed this and knew that this was not good for morale before such an important mission. So Brian said "if that not enough my wife threw me across the room and nearly smashed my skull for looking at one of her brides chest!" Hahahahahaha! The whole room broke out in laughter. Dragone a man pure of heart and mind said, "Baron you married the daughter of the Emperor and you still seek satisfaction elsewhere? You truly are a man with a death wish!" Brian chuckled, "Indeed I shall never make that mistake again for I will pay with my life!" Everyone laughed and the Nardal a man known for his sexual exploits said, "Men will be men but if I had married the Baroness I would have lasted a day!" Haldor quickly changed the subject, "let us see these new blades if they have runes I am certain they are Dwarven made which should be powerful indeed!" Even one nodded and went to the armory and Haldor was right the blade glowed blue until they held them and then they turned red as they infused with the vampire aura of each knight the brighter the blade the stronger the aura of course the Barons did not just glow but looked as if flames were coming off the blade all the other knights looked and marveled. This was their captain a vampire who stood head and shoulders above all in the kingdom and talent with the sword that was rivaled by no one except those of the God Realm Nazarick.
Many believed that the underground city or the Tomb of Nazarick had a portal to the realm of the Gods while other believe it was merely a home for the God of life and death Ainz Ooal Gown a home he created. One thing Brain was sworn to secrecy was that he could not speak about it but he would say that only a God could create such a place. As Brian waited for the mission he could not help but think about how much has changed and how he ended up working for his sworn enemy. How the Emperor was once considered a monster that must be beaten at all cost and would destroy the world but instead of destroying the land he made everything better than it was before. Everyone was shocked he elevated the position of adventures, trained them and sent them out into the unknown. Gave rights to the weak and even brought new ideas such as indoor water. He even put the nobles in their place to serve their people, it was no longer highborn or low born a man was judged on his talents and hard work. It was not a Utopia but it was better than any nation he had ever heard of or worked for. Emperor Ainz just what are you? Brian thought.
"Let's gear up and in full armour", Brain said as all the men nodded not one of the men distrusted the captain. Their armor was Nazarick black with the cross swords and the three roses above and a drawing of the world tree, The armor was of mythic class, weapons could pierce the armor had to be of a higher level, After that they all mounted up all six of them to head to the rendezvous outside the town of Contrail. They rode quietly and the only official hand instructions on where to meet Demiurge, when they reached to appointed point and time they were supposed to meet Demiurge there was a letter.
"Sorry, I had to take care of a matter don't worry I will be watching I had to take care of a mess your wife made dear brother. You better pray to Ainz that you consummate or your time is limited you Slane! (For Barons Eyes this will burn after being read," Just as Brain finished the letter the note went up in blue flame.
"Very well I can sense the Aura from town which means they can tell we are here form a Diamond formation swords out all martial arts activated and we shall walk down Main Street to prove we are stronger!" All the Knights banged their swords and chanted Blood. Beast's .Butchers. a famous song of the knights. The knights formed in formation and began to talk down the street. The first ghoul jumped from behind a barrel at Brian before the ghoul knew what happened he was in three pieces. This was to test their strength and the head of Retets manor was not happy. When suddenly he turned around to avoid being seen the Demon King was five inches away from him. All the color ran out of Retets face.
"So you came here I said I knew it was a matter of time"," Demiurge looked at him and smiled, "We knew the minute you took the artifact you fool, why do you suppose we let you have it? Retets gulped, "I do not know?"
"You did all the homework for us you fool, you killed your entire servants to power the dark jewel you fool you were doing the work for us!
Retets ran to his desk and unlocked a secret compartment were the jewel was if he could use is against the Demon King he might have a chance reached into the secret door…SNAP! "Ahhh my God", he screamed as he pulled his hand out every finger except for his thumb was severed.
"Hahaha! You think us God's servants do not know everything you truly are a fool!"
"So what now for Retets", he said trebling .
"The knights of the Rose will kill your entire village, family, and everything you care about. Have you not put the pieces together my dear Lord Retets? We were the ones to give you the armor spell to counteract the blood blade to think you had a chance. Buwawawawaw! You will be baptized and live a life of regret running your empty village.
Retets fell to the ground like a puppet whose strings had been cut. Demiurge grabbed his one good hand and said, "Shall we go to hell" as he laughed and dragged him into the spell [portal] that he cast that went directly to the demonic baptism.
Retets knew and had heard that his true power was not just conquering new lands but utterly breaking men as he did with the Blood Emperor he was undead he thought he might have a chance but not Demiurge he was a demon king he thought as he was pulled toward unspeakable horror. Suddenly he stopped Oh yes, you family is fine I was just having fun so I give you two choices, one become our spy, two I force you to kill your family and you undergo baptism?
"I will serve you mu lord! "Lord Retets mubbled.
"Splendid well looks like things turned out after all go to your family I will heal you hand but your ring finger will remain gone as a reminder we are always want ", acceptable Emperor?
"Yes" a voice came from the room said but no one could be seen.
"Who was that?" Lord Retets said.
"The God Emperor of course", Demiurge grabbed him by the neck "Why do you think they call him the God Emperor you fool"
As the knights walked down the street three vampires rushed the formation; Jinx cut the first man's head off then Brian cut the next man in two the third man stopped and said," How can this been we learned your swords have no affect if we cast a spell!
"Knights of the Rose are always ahead of you my dear beast." This enraged the man and he charged with all his power but before he knew it he was cut in half by the waist. Haldor said, "No good he could last days with that cut and walked up and cut his head off, much better.
"Let's split up these vampire are no stronger than humans they are very new, watch, pair up go house to house until meeting in middle of town. The regular troops are surrounding the entire area so none can leave."
"Sounds good to me" Nardal said let's do it.
"Ok it should take thirty minutes see you then. Each group took a gate to comb through the area."
Brian picked Macoran as his partner due to the fact he had the least experience. As they walked the street they must have killed dozens of vampires, the new blades worked as if cutting through butter no resistance at all. All of a sudden the Master vampire appeared behind them up from an underground tunnel and rammed his hand through Macoran.
Time stopped Macoran was like a son and Brian had been in battle enough to know that was a death blow. The thing that pissed Brian off so much was the constant smile on the man; life had no meeting for him.
The Vampire threw Macoran twenty feet of his hand and bowed, "My apologies I am marquis le Tant and that must have been your little friend do not worry you shall suffer the same fate for unlike the dogs you have been fighting I was the original to be turned. All of a sudden anger and anger like Brain had never felt like his blood boiled each step he took toward the marquise burned a hole in the ground.
The Marquis in his noble pomp saw Brian and said, "It looks like you have some power but none." He was not able to finish the sentence because Brain Grabbed his prissy face. "Mercy" the Marquise pleaded but Brian's eyes were pure red no reason reached his ears.
"SILENCE!"
Brain cried as he put his hand in the Marquise's mouth breaking out his front teeth and ripped off his bottom jaw. He ripped his arms and legs of and threw him to the ground. Then he ripped out his tongue and gouged out his eyes. They then put him on a pole where in front of the one town that did not rebel and let the crows slowly consumed his flesh. But before that Brian's bloodlust activated it was hard enough for an experienced true vampire to control it but he had no chance he ran into the village transforming into what looked like a lamprey sucking the blood from the people he slaughtered this was form of the True Vampire all the blood from the people he killed innocent or not formed into a blood ball until everyone was dead even the livestock and drank it. He was enraptured his blood lust he wanted more, more, more and then everything faded to black; His rage was so great Demiurge had to knock him out to keeping him from killing every person in the surrounding villages. After this he came to his senses he was not in the village but in The Capital of Nazarick. One of the Brides told Brain to report to Ainz as quickly as possible which in Nazarick talk meant now.
He got dressed and went to the Emperors quarters as the doors all the family was there, Emperor Ainz called him in. "Brian my boy I know you were not treated the best but you have awakened the true vampire blood for this accomplishment I shall make you a full member of Nazarick and you shall bear children now with Shalteer to insure the bloodline. What say you," "I am honored what of my young knight?" Ah yes we resurrected him he is well you shall return with them soon but you will be going the Alliance now called the Eastern Vassal State after my wedding so prepare yourself. Your children should be born when I come to visit you shall have twins one male and female. I will use my magic wish upon a star consummate tonight and she will be with child, it is of the upmost importance that the second generation is of the same age. "Now everyone swear fealty to the God Emperor", Sebas yelled. As if practiced all the Guardians plus Brian said, Praise the God King, Praise the White Queen and praise the Prince.
From that point on Brains life improved dramatically he slept in the same bed as his wife. The Gown family fully recognized him as the new King of the North Eastern Vassal State and now had power that could rival Shalteer, When they would arrive he would lead the nation while the Queen was with child. Shalteer would give him lessons to harness his power the biggest downfall was their bloodlust to quench this Shalteer allowed Brian to feed off her and vice versa as long as they did of each other every week they insanity would not grip them as their blood had enough life force, Brain had not seen his true form and he also did not know that all vestiges of his humanity were slowly fading, mercy, compassion, all were gone it is was better for him that way.
In Ainz's office the God Emperor's most trusted advisors came to him and asked how the operation went. Demiurge said that they went to Catel and turned the whole town to ghouls but before were extinguished guest of the Marquis. The co-conspirator Lord Retets agreed to become a spy which allowed them to illuminate the only blind spot in their intelligence network. They turned to Sebas and he explained poured extra Ki into the Marquis so he appeared stronger. Ainz stroked his chin, "And" Emperor Ainz said. Demiurge explained he meddled all their memories to make them rebel and the rest was history, A brilliant plan to awaken that blood l, Demiurge paused he knew Ainz did not like killing innocent but Sebas jumped into the conversation as Demiurge hesitated, "Lord just around 300 no children we made sure they were locked up and saw nothing. "Very well put them all in the adventure squires program out of 300 we might get one good adventurer. Demiurge and Sebas nodded in agreement that was about the odds 1 out 300 could be mythril or better.
Demiurge how goes the omega project? As of now we have razors edge which makes the blade of the weapon and 6 stones imbedded in the blade that can all release large amount of negative, positive and every other elemental power. The hilt is made of the reapers blade as of now it could rival your staff. The handle is cut a rapped with downfall of castle and country and the pommel is the draconian dagger that can pierce the scale of a platinum dragon. As well as the demon sword from the leader of the dead blue roses.
Ainz scratched his chin, "So my son will be the God of Magic shape it into a staff it will transform into anything he desires." "Yes Lord." "What happens if the enemy gets his hands on it?"
"Instant death my lord the way the dwarves made the runes the power of the weapon is a black hole of MP and HP only a being of infinite power can wield it a normal being will have all energy drained from the body and you and your son are the only ones who can wield it."
Perfect Ainz said, Demiurge you have done well there is a adanamite scaled dragon that has been confirmed in the south by the adventures I would you to take Sebas and yourself capture it if you can and then we shall make my son a suit or armor".
But sire won't he grow out of it? Sebas said
"Not if I imbue it with magic it will always fit".
Now this is top secret but underneath the scale armor we shall put the hardest metal known in Nazarick the prismatic metals to fool every one this is national security black understand?
Sebas and Demiurge both bowed and pledge their secrecy. No use of having metals that make adamantine look like iron if you can't use them, If you need help with the design talk to the blacksmith, I am counting on you!".
Demiurge and Sebas stared at each other they no longer hated each other after they found out their supreme beings were brother and sister it would be foolish for a feud like that to continue, "Shall we? I look forward to it Brother Sebas!
"Lord if I may ask", Demiurge said,
"Yes speak." Ainz replied.
"Your son is a God of unimaginable power why the weapon and armor?" Simple, insurance if he meets another God most likely not to happen but any father has to prepare!"
" As your wisdom never ends this possibility never crossed my mind," Demiurge bowed.
"Sebas Tian stay for one moment",
"Yes", lord Sebas said while he bowed.
"Sebas as you know the Dragonic kingdom has no heir and the queen is old. I have told the queen your nature and in exchange for an heir you will raise him in the ways of Nazarick until he is to become crowned king at 18. I know you love your pet but this is for the glory of Nazarick! Also marriage to the queen is out of the question are we agreed?"
"Yes my lord", Sebas choked out.
"Sebas you can raise your son with your human and be a family. Count your blessings Sebas Tian after you slay the dragon make a child with the queen she will be waiting. Sebas was downcast and Ainz could tell,
"Sebas I am aware of your issue with you human and you know I cannot expand the life of humans that much. This made him Sebas slump even more he could tell after the last years that Tsuare was getting older.
"If you did not know this Fluder found a way to extend a human life to three hundred. Sebas Tian my loyal servant I give you this order my old friend, you make a child with the queen and you are permitted to marry Tsuare also I will extend her life as my wedding present. I know you cannot have children as you are different species but you shall take care of the prince until he is crowned.
Sebas could not help but smile the iron butler. It was as if the lord read his mind and given everything he wanted he began to weep. Ainz walked up to the kneeled in front of the Iron Butler and lifted his head, "You are my treasure, the only thing my friends left behind and I see him in you every day, he helped me in so many ways now arise Sebas Tian Gown and make your maker happy."
Sebas and Demiurge dispatched the dragon quickly and Sebas went to the Dragonic Kingdom as told. The queen was odd called him a lolli boy but he told her he desired a full figured women. Their personalities could not be more different and they began to detest one another, but they consummated and had a child 8 months later. Since he was of the dragon race his maturation period would make him slightly younger than by Momanga, As the arrangement Sebas came and took the boy back to Nazarick. He and Tsuare Sapoto were married in a small simple wedding and the newest addition was made to Nazarick second Generation Dracus Tian Gown the Dragon King.