CHAPTER 22-MAPPING THE GARDEN 2

In a darkened dank cave, reality itself seemed to split open as the albino forms of Toneri and Urashiki emerged. While the latter seemed casual and nonchalant, the former was serious and focused. As Toneri surveyed the cave's interior with his shining new eyes illuminating the area, Urashiki whistled at the sight before blithely speaking.

"As pleasant as that is to look at Toneri-dono, don't you have something a little bit more practical at your disposal?"

"Cheh..."

Dismissively huffing at the Ōtsutsuki's provocation, Toneri wordlessly conjured a wisp of neon-green light, illuminating the area whilst he continued surveying it. Again, Urashiki whistled and spoke in an impressed tone.

"Well done, Toneri-dono~! You seem to be acclimating to your new abilities quickly."

"Hmph. So you were just testing me. Should I take that to mean that you also have taken on some new abilities in a similar fashion?" Toneri coldly asked as he knelt down to inspect the stone floor.

"..."

There was no verbal reply from the Ōtsutsuki to Toneri's query. Only that same grin that took on a cunning glint, serving as good as a confirmation. At this Toneri grew somewhat curious as he spoke.

"So if you had the ability to do that, you could have easily just turned me into a Chakra Pill to undo this seal yourself. Why go through such trouble?"

"Oh, it's no trouble at all, Toneri-dono. Besides, you seem to have forgotten my words from before I brought you here. I don't have the authorization to do anything that would kill you. Even if I did, the process does not work on those of sufficient Chakra Density or overall strength. Like this demon you're about to unseal for example. I couldn't turn it into a Chakra Pill even if I wanted to."

"How fortunate for both of us then." Toneri said with dripping sarcasm.

"Oh~hoh... That's the spirit~!" Urashiki cheerily replied.

"..."

Ignoring the Ōtsutsuki's overly enthusiastic reaction, Toneri focused his senses into the earth. Just as Urashiki had said, a demon's suppressed, sickening presence was detected just a few meters beneath the surface. Although its position was held in place by a seal to prevent its escape. A small, pleased smirk crossed Toneri's lips, since it was a rather formidable seal that he knew could have been made by only one person...

"Impressive, isn't it~? I'll be curious to learn who did this. To think we may be dealing with someone from that world you love so much."

"..."

Although Toneri outwardly kept his calm, inwardly he was very worried that Urashiki had already pieced that much together. He wanted Madara's presence in this new world to come as much of a surprise as possible. It was a risky gamble, but to Toneri it was a risk worth taking to see if some attempts at subterfuge could work. A gamble he took as he calmly spoke whilst thrusting his left-hand into the earth.

"Actually, it may be too soon to reach that sort of conclusion."

"Hoh~? And what makes you say that, Toneri-dono?" Urashiki asked, now with an uncharacteristically serious tone and expression.

"First, just because you could find a way here, doesn't mean someone from there could as well. My father and I watched over that world all our lives, and not once something like what you described happened. At least as far as we were aware, but you do know better than most how little is capable of escaping our sight. Second, who's to say that a progenitor of Chakra could not have arisen here, and simply kept their knowledge and power to themselves, save for perhaps a select few? Yes, the seals are strikingly similar to those from that world, but the knowledge afforded to me by Dradis Ku Bessala has shown me enough to say with confidence that this world's sealing magic powered by Chakra could attain similar results."

"..."

As Urashiki cradled his chin in thought, Toneri could only hope that his reasoning was accepted. After all, the latter half was almost a complete fabrication. While Dradis did study sealing magic, he had yet to master it, and thus was unable to test it to any great extent. Toneri was still feeling his way through the new powers and abilities absorbing Dradis afforded him, so if pressed to prove his theory, he wasn't confident he could.

"Point taken. I guess we won't know for sure until you get done releasing the beast so we can ask it ourselves." Urashiki said with a casual shrug.

"Right. Which shouldn't take long, provided I suffer no further distractions."

"Hai, hai~! Understood, Toneri-dono."

Disguising his sighs to be from annoyance, truthfully Toneri was relieved that Urashiki had seemingly accepted his subterfuge. Taking a moment to appreciate his luck, he then focused on the task before him to release the demon from its confines. Diving both his hands into the stone floor, it shifted as if it were puddy in his grip as he wrestled with the seals holding the demon.

Using his extra-sensory abilities which remained intact despite regaining his sight and growing a new appendage, he quickly determined that not only did the earth and stone have seals, but so too did the demon's form. It was like taking apart an interconnected series of locks, all of which were booby trapped against tampering.

Still, this was something he had experience with. Thanks to the additional power he was granted, slowly but surely he began to pick those locks apart. Of course, the seals lashed out at him with lightning and other elements as he did, but conjuring [Puppet-Cursing Spheres] whilst working negated this to an extent. After a bit of effort, the first seal was disarmed, and he could work on the next.

Clasping his hands together, the demonic statue moved position as tremors shook the cave's entire interior. Urashiki whistled as he looked around, amused by the event, and while Toneri was suspicious that he had not engaged his [Byakugan] to watch him work, he pushed ahead as he dismantled the last set of seals. They recoiled violently against him as he did, but eventually even that wasn't enough.

*SHWING!*

A burst of energy was released as he succeeded in picking apart the final seals, and for a moment he had a sense of elation at the accomplishment of picking apart seals placed by Madara himself. That was soon dashed when he was reminded of its purpose, and Urashiki spoke with his usual grin.

"Congratulations, Toneri-dono~! Now, kindly move to the back. It's now time for my part of this job."

As soon as Toneri did as instructed, the area in which he stood exploded open, with a large figure jumping out of the hole. Its baleful roaring shook the cave as it landed, and the pair got a good look at the red-skinned demon before them as it spread its dragon-like wings, wearing little more than a brown-colored loincloth.

The demon was over 7-feet tall with a leathery tail, four arms possessing six-fingered hands, hooved feet, and five horns sweeping back before they curled in on each other. It possessed pointed ears like that of an elf, with fearsome teeth and fangs that appeared they could rend flesh with little effort. It's red slitted-eyes positively radiated with rage and malevolence as its blackened sclera shimmered.

"I'LL KILL HIM! RIP HIM APART! VIOLATE EVERY FIBER OF HIS BEING! AAAAARGH!"

Its presence was positively sickening to Toneri, even before it was released, but now it was far worse. Especially with its incessant roars shaking the cave. More than that, its ranting threatened to reveal the identity of who imprisoned him if something wasn't done soon. Covering his left-ear, Toneri loudly spoke in annoyance.

"Urashiki, could you please silence this bellowing animal? Its voice is grating."

"Gladly, Toneri-dono.~"

Taking an odd sort of glee from Toneri making a request of him, Urashiki twirled his red Chakra Rod before flinging its tip into the demon's chest, and wrapping its cords around it. The demon was completely immobilized, gnashing its teeth as its boiling rage tried to explode again, only to be completely shutdown.

"Now, now~. Settle down. Your kind are always so troublesome."

As Urashiki blithely spoke, the demon reigned in its rage, and awareness seeped back into its eyes as its blackened sclera slowly changed color to purple. Its gaze then shifted to the albino duo standing to its front, regarding them with a neutral expression.

"Calmed down now? Good. Then tell us beast, who stopped your first revival and slapped those fancy new seals on you?"

"..."

There was silence at first, before a guttural growl escaped from the demon's throat, and it spoke with a cacophonous voice.

"I have nothing to say to those of your kind, Celestial. Now release me!"

The demon's voice seemed to echo in their minds as well as their ears as it spoke with contempt. This denoted a telepathic ability in the demon's possession to Toneri, making him wonder just how deeply it went. A sentiment shared by Urashiki as he grinned and spoke in curiosity.

"Hoh~? So it's true what the Order knew about you. Dy'varnak, Evil Deity of Sin and Corruption, has some telepathic abilities. Very useful. But my question still stands, demon. Who re-sealed you~?" Urashiki said with a more serious timbre.

The query was met with silence, and at this Urashiki piteously sighed with an indifferent shrug.

"No matter. I know someone who can make you talk, one way or another. Come along now~!"

As the demon roared in defiance, space warped once again as the trio disappeared from the cave. Toneri allowed himself a moment's satisfaction at Urashiki's haste to depart. In so doing there was the perfect excuse for why he hadn't repaired the newly formed hole in the cave, acting as an obvious marker for their presence. Now he could only hope that the last hurdle could be cleared as easily...

...

Meditating within a circular chamber atop a stone pedestal sitting cross-legged, Severin was as still as water in a spring pool with his fists and thumbs joined together. The magic lighting flickered as if pressured by an unseen force before space behind him began to warp. His eyes shot open as he glanced behind to see the emerging forms of Urashiki, Toneri, and to his pleasant surprise, a large demonic being.

"Yo, Severin-san~! We come bearing a gift for you."

Upon Urashiki's cheeky declaration, Severin slowly stepped down from the pedestal and walked towards the demon. For a moment the demonic being seemed confused as to who he was. As they drew closer however, Severin's eyes began to subtly glow red, and a flash of recognition and even outright shock painted Dy'varnak's face.

"I-Impossible... You are-!"

The demon's speech was cut short as Severin then immediately raised his left-hand in an upward choking motion. Seeing this, Urashiki sadistically smiled as he released his hold on Dy'varnak, casually draping his rod over his right-shoulder as the Evil Deity was soon brought to its knees, gasping for air.

"Hmph... Well done, Celestial. This seems to be the one and genuine Dy'varnak." Severin coldly said, his voice oddly taking on a menacing echo as he spoke.

"Hai, hai... I told you we'd return with your prize, did I not?" Urashiki proudly replied.

"Hm. Given what was sacrificed to bring about this outcome, any other result would've been unacceptable." Severin said with a somber tone as his voice returned to normal, looking in Toneri's direction.

The cult leader could not help but notice Toneri's new features, whom had a saddened, apologetic expression as he gave a respectful yet brief head-bow. This was enough to tell Serevin that the latter genuinely regretted his part in his friend Dradis' sacrifice. It was this that slightly softened his hardened demeanor.

Just as it did, Toneri picked at the tip of his marble horn with his left-hand as he sighed heavily. Severin perked a brow as he did this, and Urashiki turned to Toneri with that same condescending grin as he took notice and playfully spoke.

"Oh~! And here I thought you'd gotten used to having your new horn."

"Hmph. As if I would tell you anything about it." Toneri snapped back in annoyance as he pinched in the bridge of his nose, keeping his sight on Severin.

"Ah~hah. So cold, Toneri-dono, but no matter... I see you've already taken those Pills I gave you, Severin-san." Urashiki casually commented.

"Hm... Indeed... I wasn't going to frivolously waste time, given an opportunity of that magnitude under the circumstances." Severin replied with a business-like tone, his gaze then shifting to Urashiki.

"Everyone is so serious. Be at ease~! We're all one step closer to our respective goals. So what will you do with this one, Serevin-san? Let it run amok like the other one?"

"No. That one is enough for the time being. Much like the one confined here, Dy'varnak will remain in this complex for now."

"Oh~? Pity that. It's always amusing to see demons stirring up their own brands of chaos and mischief, but that's your business so I'll leave you to it. Still, before we depart from your fine company, could you please compel this demon to spill what he knows about whoever sealed him back up? He's been less than cooperative on the topic I'm afraid."

"..."

Severin remained silent, levying an annoyed expression towards Urashiki's insufferable grin as his gaze briefly went to Toneri. The latter sighed as he wearily rubbed his left-eye, as Severin sharply turned to face the still-kneeling Evil Deity. Dy'varnak gnashed its teeth during their entire exchange, looking as if it struggled against a physical force in failed attempts to stand.

With a flick of his right-hand, Dy'varnak's head was raised as the cult leader looked directly into the demon's eyes. There was silence for a moment before Serevin's eyes once again took on a reddish-hue, and his voice having that haunting echo as he spoke.

"Speak. What do you know of the one who re-sealed you?"

"Eerk! ...I know not... whom it was. Just that... it was a human man with long, dark-brown hair."

The Evil Deity struggled to speak as it clawed at its throat, trying in vain to fight against the invisible force being exerted against it. Serevin strengthened his hold on the demon, speaking with increased venom in his tone.

"What are you saying? Could you not read this man's mind?"

"I... could not. His mind... was shielded from me somehow. I could only... discern his... unremarkable appearance."

Looking upon the Evil Deity with an empty glare, Serevin released his hold on the demon as he stepped aside and his eyes became normal again.

"Hm... It seems that this mystery will have to remain such for the time being." He said with a neutral tone.

"Ah~hah... Disappointing, but not entirely unexpected considering what our mysterious interloper was capable of. Oh, well. I guess I should be glad that we've narrowed down his species and gender at least. Which will have to do for now. I guess we'll be taking our leave from you." Urashiki nonchalantly replied.

"Hmph. You'll understand if I give no thanks for this."

"Yes, yes, but not to worry, Serevin-san. I won't take it personally. Have a good night~!"

Urashiki's mocking voice echoed as space twisted around him and Toneri, with the pair disappearing from sight. Serevin narrowed his vision in disgust, before placing a hand on the still prostrating demon, and the pair disappearing in a flash of purple-colored light. The pair then reappeared in a different chamber with three large cells built into each of the adjacent walls. Each one blocked by a thick layer of glass.

With a wave of his hand, one wall of glass disappeared as Serevin telekinetically placed Dy'varnak into it. The glass rematerialized as the demon roared at becoming a prisoner again. The wall's edges embedded with ruby-colored crystals began to glow. From the crystals, veiny tendrils grew into the glass, spreading its crimson glow all across its surface as Serevin coldly spoke.

"You did well to keep silent on what you truly knew, Dy'varnak."

"Grumph... Despite having little choice, I was glad to at least deceive that Celestial wretch."

"..."

Serevin silently smiled as he thought back on what recently happened. He was pleased he consumed those Chakra Pills, acclimating to them as quickly as he did. If he had not, he wouldn't have learned that not only did he gain more power, but the knowledge and memories from those they were made from. It was disorienting, even maddening at first but he quickly realized the boons offered. Especially when he recognized the vocal and physical signals Toneri used.

These were signs he and Dradis developed in the past to signal each other in manners only the two of them could understand. He knew all of those coded benign gestures by heart, and the message given was loud and clear: reveal nothing. With this he used his powers over demonkind, with Dy'varnak's telepathy to ensure Urashiki learned nothing of importance.

It pleased Serevin to know that not only did Toneri seem to despise his fellow Celestial enough to want to snub him as Serevin also desired, but more importantly to finally have some kind of advantage over Urashiki. For whom a blackened hatred festered for forcing him to sacrifice his friend Dradis. Still, it was heartening to know that at least some part of him lived on.

"Hmm... Madara Uchiha, is it? It would be most fortunate if those two were to simply kill each other off in the future. How feasible that may prove though is something we shall have to wait and see..." Serevin mused aloud, before a voice like that of nails scratching on wood interrupted his train of thought.

"iT sEeMs I nOw hAvE A CeLLmAtE... HOw kInd Of yOu sErEvIn."

Serevin didn't so much as look in the direction of the voice's origin towards the far wall but Dy'varnak, Evil Deity of Sin and Corruption moved to his glass wall to get a look. As he placed his hand on it, red sparks flashed as it repelled him with ease, and he snorted in recognition laced with contempt.

"Piethoms. To think you lived into this era... What a pitiful state you've been reduced to."

At the provocation, the sounds of a book closing and the creaking of wood was heard as from out of the shadows of the cell to Dy'varnak's left, the form of a wooden mannequin of handcrafted construction stepped into view. It bore no remarkable features, save for a man's face that twisted into demonic features with glowing, sickly green eyes.

"YoU'rE In nO pOsItiOn tO mOck WitLeSs OnE. BE grAtEfUL yOUr OrIgInAL bOdy wAs nOt dEstrOyEd cEnTuRieS AgO."

"Grargh! Don't make the mistake of believing being trapped within a prison of stone was any better, fool!"

"Enough."

Once again, Serevin's voice took on an echo that felt haunting and menacing to those who heard it. A black-purplish aura engulfed him as his eyes shined red before subsiding and then again speaking normally.

"Piethoms, have you completed your current task?"

"ALmOst. It shOULd bE cOmpLEtEd bY mOrnIng."

"Good. The Order will grow stronger with your efforts. Your 'tribute' shall arrive in the morning upon confirmation of completion."

There was no verbal reply as Piethoms, the Evil Deity of Pacts, acknowledged Serevin via head-bow. In the old days, he was a demon that exploited mortals with tantalizing deals to fulfill their wishes and desires in order to gain strength by sapping away either their lifeforce, or the lifeforce of those it asked for in "tribute".

Its usual, often preferred prey were those on the brink of despair, dangling hope so as to more easily manipulate them. However, its opportunistic nature could see it deviate, as those filled with greed and desire could also serve its purposes. Its special powers and abilities allowed it to manipulate probability to see the best possible outcomes.

Though cornered with its body destroyed by the "Thirteen Heroes", it survived by using its special abilities to transfer its essence into a doll, then later the mannequin after its recovery by the Order. But without a suitable demonic host, it was essentially stuck in its current pitiful state. Until such time that opportunity arose, it was using its abilities to increase the cult's financial wealth and odds of success.

"Dy'varnak, your tribute shall arrive in the morning as well. Though you are forbidden to kill them, you will find this entire complex to be radiating with enough of the energies to suit your needs and gain strength. Until called, you will remain here."

Serevin's voice was almost robotic in quality as he spoke. As if he was merely a puppet for the words of another, before he then teleported out of the chamber, leaving the pair of Evil Deities to speak amongst themselves.

"That man... He's the 'vessel', isn't he?"

"IndEEd, hE Is. ThE mAstEr's GeasS wAs pLAcEd IntO hIs AncEstOr, bEIng pAssEd ALOng tO EAch sUccEEdIng gEnErAtIOn."

"Hrmph! Is he even aware of what's inside him?" Dy'varnak asked with contempt clear in his voice.

"DOUbtfUL. OUr mAstEr's InfLUEncE Is tOO strOng. HE And hIs fAmILy sImpLy fOLLOw thE pAth Of LEAst rEsIstAncE tO AchIEvE hIs rEvIvAL." Piethoms said with a frustrated yet resigned tone as he went back to a desk to continue his previous work.

"BAH! WHAT FARCE IS THIS?! TO BE RELEASED AT LONG LAST, ONLY TO BE FOOD FOR OUR MASTER'S RETURN?!"

Dy'varnak balefully roared whilst spitting and cursing, reflecting upon the absurdity of it all. To finally be given a moment's freedom from the Demon God, only to have it taken away by a pair of their natural enemies in the form of Celestials, and made a prisoner all over again by a cult established to worship them, so that they might bring about their master's revival. Now trapped in a cell specially made to confine demonkind, he laughed at the irony that perhaps he was better off sealed.

...

Within a canyon's ledge lit solely via moonlight, three figures of the Deep Darkness Dragon Lord, the Swordmaster Dragon Lord's bipedal form, and Madara Uchiha stood stationary as they waited. Madara stood with arms folded with an impassive expression, whilst Arimour behind him was much the same, and Dy'vom behind them sat up, akin to a great predator keeping its senses open for prey.

While having just arrived, the Dragon Lord pair were "broadcasting" their position via their [Wild Magic] energies and their draconic presence. In this way, it served to "invite" the one they wished to speak with. As Madara lowered his head and closed his eyes as if in meditation, Arimour inquisitively addressed his fellow Dragon Lord.

"How long do you suppose this method of gaining her attention will take?"

"Hrmph... Not long. Her senses have always been sharp, even back then. I would have preferred using one of my Avatars like I did with you, but she ended up destroying it during the course of your match with Madara." Dy'vom replied with an annoyed huff.

"I see. I suppose she felt like it was spying on her. Or she did it out of spite. Or both. But it matters not. That one action alone tells us that she's still as temperamental as before. Although that could be said of any female with a grudge." Arimour said with a casual shrug.

"Indeed. Or rather, the grudge she held towards the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord, and the fact that she was forced to be part of our anti-Player alliance centuries ago, despite him aleady being part of it."

"Forced? Hrm... I suppose that's the way she would have seen it. Her power had yet to plateau, and the next wave of Players was due to arrive. What other choice could be made under those conditions? Even if it meant being a part of an alliance with one she particularly despised as a member." Arimour said with a more serious tone.

"Well, we didn't know of her grudge against him until after she made sure to isolate him from the rest. Cure Elim Los Malvar... He was always more trouble than he was worth." Dy'vom said with a growl.

"Yes, he certainly was. After his humiliating defeat at the hands of the Demon God and its 'Evil Deities', he came to me you know. Downright begged me for combat training to help compensate for his lack experience. As a matter of honor, I well could not ignore such an earnest request from a comrade, lest he be allowed to further shame the title of Dragon Lord, after showing such a pitiful performance."

"Hrumph! Don't play me for the fool, Arimour. You just wanted a sparring partner, and a chance to thrash him, especially once you learned the reason behind her grudge against him."

"Ah-hahaha~! Well, I cannot deny your assertions there..."

The Swordmaster Dragon Lord boisterously replied, before abruptly becoming more solemn as he continued.

"...Though I must confess, oftentimes I've wondered if I should've turned his request down, or even killed him outright after our alliance fell apart. His actions over the last few centuries have done more harm to our kind and the world itself than his own death of humiliation ever could."

At that that Dv'vom closed his eyes, releasing an oddly contemplative huff through his nostrils. Meanwhile, Madara kept his senses open for any approaching presences, even as he attentively listened to their conversation. He knew that it was more for his benefit than for theirs, and it indeed gave him some much-needed context for what he already knew of the one he wished to recruit.

"Hm?"

Suddenly, his attention was drawn by an abrupt shift in the air as storm-clouds began to gather above them, and only over their location. This was no natural phenomenon. A sentiment shared by the pair of Dragon Lords as Dy'vom grunted and Arimour spoke with both amusement and caution in his voice.

"Heh. And thus she finally joins the chorus."

As if queued, thunder echoed throughout the night's sky, with crimson-colored lightning dancing across their vision. A most intriguing color in Madara's eyes as a roar echoed throughout the area. It was unmistakably a dragon's roar, although its pitch was slightly higher than that of Dy'vom's or Arimour's.

Suddenly a black-scaled dragon with dark-crimson hide and two sets of obsidian bat-like wings burst through the clouds as scarlet lightning rolled off its form. It was beautiful in its way as the electricity coiled around its form, as if swimming inside the element itself. A most imposing sight that had him briefly smirk, since lightning was a traditional draconic weakness, yet here was one that commanded it as easily as breathing.

Diving for a stone platform directly towards their front, Madara stood unphased even as the pair of Dragon Lords to his back raised their guard. With a crashing echo of thunder, it landed on the platform that rose 2-meters from the ground as if to meet it. Spreading its wings, its dark form continued crackling with blood-red energy as thunder still roiled in the distance.

Now able to see the dragon up close, they saw that its scales stood up at a 40-degree angle, with spiked tips acting as lightning rods. The energy rapidly bounded off each other and the dragon's horns in a dazzling display, even as it seemed to be dying down.

Indeed, even as the lightning settled, both in the distance and on its form, the spiked protrusions shrank until the draconic scales returned to normal both in appearance and angle. Folding its wings, it sat up like a great predatory cat at attention with its slitted, crimson-colored gaze keenly locked onto the trio. Regarding them with equal parts curiosity and suspicion, the dragon then spoke with a deep, feminine voice.

"Well, well... What have we here? My old 'comrades', Dy'vom and Arimour, paying me a most... auspicious visit, and with a most unusual human at that. To what do I owe this honor?"

Her voice positively dripped with scorn and sarcasm as the female spoke, smiling with even pronounced frontal fangs than even Dy'vom and Arimour. As the latter sighed he stepped forward to be on Madara's left, speaking in an even, respectful tone.

"We are here to make introductions, and to ask for your aid. First, allow me to fulfill the former task. This is Madara Uchiha, the one that brought Dy'vom and myself back unto a united cause. Madara, this is a comrade from our old alliance 200-years ago: Aithusa Rahmoth, the Vampiric Dragon Lord."

Madara said nary a word as he locked eyes with the female Dragon Lord with his eyes [Sharingan] active, who narrowed her vision in mild surprise at the sight of his unique eye whilst doing the same. For a moment they stood like this, before Dy'vom spoke up in a neutral tone.

"If you're wondering, no. He is not a Player of YGGDRASIL."

"Hrumph. I already assumed as much. His scent is far too different from the one I killed a century ago. The type, quality, and sheer quantity his of lifeforce dwarfs that of any I've encountered. Hmm... How interesting.~" She replied with an intrigued, almost sultry tone as she licked her fangs.

"Hoh~? You've killed one of these 'Players' I have heard so much about? This is the first I've heard of it." Madara said with mild interest.

"Hrm~hehehe... Yes, I've killed one, and I confess the memory if a particularly fond one, even fo this day. These two wouldn't know about it, since we parted ways long before." She said with an amused smile.

"Judging by your demeaner, I take it that you have already deduced certain things." Arimour said with a smirk.

"Indeed~. The likes of you would never follow anyone else without a sufficient show of strength. This human demonstrating such is the only explanation of your presence here, regardless of how outlandish saying those words felt. Dy'vom meanwhile would not follow either of you without at the very least, it being in the interests of his own self-preservation."

Dy'vom emitted a subtle, insulted growl at the slight jab as Madara stepped forward and resumed speaking, completely devoid of fear or apprehension. He was as calm as the waters of a lake on a summer morning. This seemed to not only impress the female Dragon Lord, but he could also ascertain a sense of respect, intrigue, and a small yet health portion of caution from her.

"Then I will not waste our precious time and get right to the point. I desire your services in safeguarding and reshaping this world from the forces that seek to unbalance and possibly destroy it. Dy'vom and Arimour have already joined me towards these ends and more. Seeing as you have history with both of them, you should know very well that this is not something they would do arbitrarily."

"..."

Indeed, she knew them quite well. The Dy'vom she knew was prideful almost to a fault, even by draconic standards, and would never act in a subservient manner towards any. Yet the more she looked upon him, the more she could clearly see the deference, and even camaraderie he held towards Madara. Such a thing would have been unthinkable in the Dragon Lord she once knew, nevermind seeing such behavior towards a human.

Likewise for Arimour, he was an oftentimes troublesome individual with a warrior-type mindset that held fast to a strict honor code, following only those recognized as worthy. She could sense subtle hints of a recently fought battle upon both him and Madara, but the fact that he followed this powerful human could only mean he lost, and sworne his services to him. A realization that made her grin in both amusement and fascination.

Of course, she already knew of what Madara spoke in the world feeling out-of-balance. It was as if the world's life-blood, a source of power she would often drink, was being siphoned away. Where to and from what she could not say, but just like 200-years ago, it seemed prudent to form alliances for gathering information on this new threat and survival. In this case however, Aithusa Rahmoth was now in a position to dictate terms.

"Hrmm... I would like to hear more of this from you and my former comrades, but lest I agree there are conditions upon which requires fulfillment, which are not negotiable." She said in a serious tone.

"Hm. I expected as much. And? State your terms then." Madara stoically said, not at all surprised by this turn of events.

"Firstly, no attempts will be made to approach the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord. If you truly are working with Dy'vom and Arimour, then you know of whom I speak and why I make this demand."

"Umu... Done. I wasn't planning on seeking that thing out regardless. Not unless it was to destroy him."

'"..."'

Madara's prompt reply genuinely caught them all off-guard. Both Dy'vom and Arimour expected an argument to ensue over the point, since Madara's aim was to recruit many strong beings to his cause. Especially when Nazarick had by all accounts, a significant head-start in that and other fields. Clearly though, they didn't take into account his own negative bias against that undead Dragon Lord, making quite the favorable impression on them all.

"Hrm. You surprise me, Madara. You're a most intriguing human. Which leads me to my second condition." Aithusa said with a pleased smile.

"Which is...?" Madara asked in an unmoved manner.

*FA-WOOOSH!*

Suddenly, a blood-red vortex engulfed the female Dragon Lord, and while this surprised the others, all it did was elicit a perked brow from Madara. As the vortex shrank, it then moved forward as light footsteps were heard echoing towards him. The stone platform then lowered as a set of stone steps rose from the ground, and as the vortex faded the form of a barefoot humanoid woman emerged.

Gracefully stepping down to face Madara, whom was otherwise unphased by this turn of events, Aithusa was revealed to have transformed into an extremely beautiful woman, eclipsing even "Nabe" of Darkness. She was 6-feet tall with long silvery-violet colored hair that stopped just past her waist, framed at the top of her head by a set of obsidian-colored draconic horns, enhancing her form's "hybrid" appearance.

Wearing a black dress that stopped just above the ankles, it flawlessly outlined her very feminine hourglass figure with the right-side open to expose her right-leg just above the middle of the thigh. Barely contained in the dress's top was a large bosom rivaling if not surpassing Hilma's that had only small, string-like straps draped over her shoulders. A long and thin draconic tail playfully swung side-to-side before slowly snaking itself around her right-leg.

Her skin was a dark, creamy-gray color with angled sections of black scales with dark-red highlights outlining her neck, face, forehead, wrists, ankles, back, and small pockets on her arms and legs. As her shining slitted, crimson-colored eyes opened, she smiled with ruby-red lips as she gingerly extended her hand to the side.

Reaching into blood-colored vortex that appeared at her silent command, she withdrew a large, golden goblet with ruby jewels all around its base. Smiling seductively, exposing her vampiric canines, she spoke in a matching tone as she handed the goblet to Madara.

"If we are to have a pact, then it must be sealed in blood."

"..."

Taking her goblet in hand, it did not take much for him to deduce the meaning behind her words; she would imbibe his blood as a form of "contract" between them. But there was one thing he needed to clarify, before acquiescing to her condition.

"Hmph... If that is your wish, I have no objections. However, you should know that the strong lifeforce you sensed from me flows in my very blood, and is harmful to undead. Especially in its pure state. It may be... unwise for even one as powerful as yourself to directly imbibe it without further precautions on your part." Madara said in a neutral tone.

"Oh? Then... you don't know? Hufufu~! It seems as if my old comrades of yore have still kept some confidences, despite being in your service." Aithusa replied with an amused, almost haughty chuckle.

"Grumph! Whatever else you may think, we kept our agreement to stay away from the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord should he fall under attack, and so too did we keep information of your abilities to ourselves, until such time it became relevant. So do not mock us with your petty banter, Aithusa Rahmoth." Dy'vom derisively retorted.

"Agreed. You insult our honor." Arimour aggressively growled.

"Hrm... You are right, old comrades. My apologies..." Aithusa said in a genuinely apologetic manner before sighing and returning her attention to Madara.

"Well, to address your concerns, I am not like most other vampires. While I am still an undead, when I became... this, instead of attempting to cling to my previous powers and abilities in [Wild Magic], I deemed that course of action as too dangerous. Instead, I had developed a different system of magic that cultivates and manipulates the energies of life itself, using one's lifeblood as a medium. For there is power in the blood. It is the currency and vehicle though which life can be transferred from one vessel to another. For I am the Vampiric Dragon Lord; the one true master of [Blood Magic] in this world."

As Aithusa Rahmoth made her proclamation in a menacingly haunting tone, Madara's features softened somewhat as he spoke in a tone of respect.

"I see. You hated what you became, but instead of clinging onto the edifice of a past long lost out of desperation, you embraced your circumstances and divergent state of being, making it your own."

"..."

This time, it was Aithusa's turn to be surprised, speaking in a tone of comprehension and respect herself.

"It seems you're no stranger to adapting to life's changing circumstances either. You're more than just a powerful entity, but also quite the sharp and quick-witted one."

"Hmph. The same could be said of you, Aithusa..." Madara plainly commented, then somehow opening his right-palm, allowing blood flowing freely into the goblet in his left.

Madara understood that what he held was a magic item that drew fresh blood into itself much like water from a stream. In only seconds it was full, and before Madara handed it back to the hybrid-form Aithusa, his hand's opening promptly healed itself. As she held the goblet to her lips, Madara then clasped his hands together into the Mi Hand-Seal, and a stony throne erected behind her.

"While I do not doubt your prowess in this [Blood Magic] or yours, it might be wise for you to take a seat regardless before consuming my blood." Madara matter-of-factly stated.

"Hrm... You're far more punctilious than I suspected, Madara. And I must admit, despite our only just meeting, you fascinate me to no end. Very well. I shall avail myself of your courtesy~." She said in a sultry tone as she sat down, before then consuming the blood-goblet's contents in one gulp.

For a moment there was silence as she lowered the goblet, and it faded from view as if it never existed. Then her eyes suddenly shot open so wide that it seemed they would bulge from their sockets. Her breathing become labored and erratic as her entire body was suddenly coated in layers of sweat as if entering a sauna, her veins bulged through her skin, and then...

"AUAAAAAARGH~!"

Her roars of pain and anguish echoed for miles, making those present wince from its intensity as she flailed in her stony throne. Scarlet lightning sparked and arced from her form as she grabbed onto her mid-section, curling herself into the fetal position. An aura of crimson flared as the roars of agony continued, explosively displacing air around her. This increased in intensity as bloody tears flowed freely from her eyes.

Minutes seemed like an eternity as Dy'vom and Arimour watched on. Contrary to their cool expressions, they were very concerned by this turn of events. They both thought that her unparalleled mastery over [Blood Magic] would allow her to imbibe Madara's blood with little difficulty, but now regretted not taking his warnings more seriously. Although Madara himself seemed as stoic and unmoved as ever.

As the Dragon Lord who had known Madara the longest, in Dy'vom's eyes it seemed that this was just as much of a test for her, as Madara's respective match was with Arimour, and to a lesser degree himself. He suspected that if Aithusa couldn't handle this despite being warned, then Madara would write her off as being of no use to him, as being both a weakling and a fool. Yes, that seemed the most likely and logical explanation to the Deep Darkness Dragon Lord.

Indeed, Dy'vom's supposition was accurate. Madara had no use for arrogant fools who pontificate more than taking stock of risks in a given situation. If this Vampiric Dragon Lord was to be of any use to him in dealing with whatever storm that was on the horizon, he needed to see if she truly had the guts and ability to endure, adapt, and overcome...

...And as her roars of anguish subsided, it seemed she truly did.

Moreover, as her thrashing ended, instead of writhing in pain it appeared as if she was basking in spleandor with a euphoric expression washing over her features. Moans of ecstasy replaced the roars of agony as her body adapted to Madara potent blood, and a wave of power omnidirectionally erupted. A few moments later, Aithusa seemingly regained her senses as she looked up at Madara with a joyous yet savage countenance.

"By the Progenitors of Dragonkind~! Never in my long years did I think to meet one such as you. You, who are a veritable wellspring of life itself, such that it towers over even that Player I killed. Oooooh~!" With a shake of her head, Aithusa regained her previous grace as she hugged herself and resumed speaking.

"...My thanks, Madara. Any doubts I may have held have been erased. I shall join you and my old comrades in your cause.~" She said in an eager purr.

"Hm. Your guts are plain to see, Aithusa Rahmoth. Welcome to the fold."

Stepping forward, Madara offered his right-hand to Aithusa, who nodded at the gesture as she used her own to grab onto his wrist. Pulling her up to her feet in one swift motion, she gave Madara a respectful and elegant curtsy. Her smile was unto that of a cunning predator, promised the hunt of the millennium. Such was her barely restrained glee, to which Madara merely smirked at the sight before addressing the pair of Dragon Lords behind him.

"I trust there are no past squabbles to be had between the three of you?"

"Hrmph. None." Dy'vom plainly replied.

"Indeed, I have none either. I freely welcome her into our fold. Although, shouldn't she be signing that 'contract scroll' of yours as we did?" Arimour unconcernedly asked.

"..."

Madara looked back at Aithusa with his [Sharingan] active, his expression indiscernible as he then turned back to Arimour and responded in his typical, stoic tone.

"It appears that won't be necessary in her case."

"Oh? Why would that...? Ah, I see now. Her unique powers in [Blood Magic] has already taken care of creating a 'link' between the two of you. Is that not so?" The Swordmaster Dragon Lord asked, his right-thumb and index-finger thoughtfully cradling his chin.

"Umu... Indeed. It was a surprise, but I cannot deny its efficiency."

"Oh~hoh! That is certainly true. And speaking of efficiency, aren't you going to tell him about your other abilities, Aithusa? Or are you saving it as a surprise?" Arimour asked with a cheeky smile.

"Ah, I see your demeaner has changed little, old friend... Hrmph~. Very well. In addition to my mastery over [Blood Magic], I am also a practitioner of [Tier Magic]. A path that opened to me upon becoming this. Furthermore, in life I was already an elementalist skilled in the use of lightning. A humorous irony to be sure, to use Players' own infernal magic against them." Aithusa replied in amusement.

"Hm... I already thought as much." Madara tersely replied.

"Hu~fufufu... My, you truly are a sharp one. But I suppose that is to be expected, from one not of this world. I do wonder though... Just how much can those queer eyes of your can truly see?" She cheekily replied, to which Madara turned to look at her from the corner of his vision.

"I could again say the same of you, blood-drinker..." Madara said, narrowing his eyes in warning as he continued.

"And do not mock an Uchiha's visual prowess; I can see everything."

"Oh, my~! Such intensity. I do look forward to when I can once again partake of that potent blood of yours." She said in exaggerated fake bashfulness.

"Hmph... That one was free. From here on out, any more will have to be earned." Madara sternly affirmed.

"Hrm... Understood." Aithusa nonchalantly acknowledged with a shrug.

"Umu. Good. Now then, let's be off to our next destination."

"My word, you're recruiting more of us~? Truly, you do not do things by halves. And who pray-tell is next in your search?"

"Aaaah... Next shall be the... Brightness Dragon Lord." Dy'vom answered with a weary sigh, eliciting a displeased frown from Aithusa.

"Come again? You cannot be serious... HIM?!"

"Do not complain, woman. Others must be sought to fill the ranks for the fight that is to come. Especially if the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord is not to be recruited. Besides, do not pretend that he is not in possession of knowledge, skills, treasures, and talents that can be of considerable use to me." Madara brusquely interjected.

"Hah~! Yes, that's the long-and-short of it, my dear. But think of it this way: as much as you are loath to see him again, the reunion will be even more unpleasant for him. And you cannot deny that you're looking forward to seeing the look on his face when he sees you appearing in his mountain-top citadel." Arimour blithely commented with a smile and amused chuckling.

"Oh~? Hmm... Pffft~! Alright. I do have to admit, I'll derive some satisfaction from that." Aithusa humorously said with a wide, mischievous smile.

"Enough banter. It's almost morning, and since Dy'vom won't be able to directly teleport us to the desired location, he'll need to fly us the rest of the way there." Madara curtly interjected as he leapt upon the Deep Darkness Dragon Lord's back.

"Hm. Indeed. Our most hedonistic comrade does indeed value his privacy, and the anti-teleportation wards around his home's vicinity makes direct routes there difficult at best." Arimour matter-of-factly stated, likewise leaping upon Dy'vom's back.

Smirking at the display, Aithusa followed suit, and smiled like the proverbial cat with the equally proverbial canary as she casually crossed her legs while sitting atop Dy'vom's head. He aggressively growled at her for the brazen act, but let it pass as Madara tapped his foot upon his back, signalling him to ignore it and move on. Following the silent instruction, he began groups teleportation preparations as Aithusa thought to herself.

'Madara Uchiha... Such a fascinating specimen. More than I had ever imagined possible. I cannot wait to learn more about you and the world you came from... To think humans could have developed in such a way in your world. Hmm... Quite the bewitching confluence of contradictions and sacrifices you are... Izuna, was it? To think that after all this time, you still blame yourself for what happened to your brother... Such flawed thinking is after all, only human. And you're all the more beautiful for it...'

With a knowing smiling, she and the others disappeared in a flash of reddish light. As the sun began to rise over the darkened horizon, another powerful entity had joined the fray...

...

Barely an hour after breakfast, the sun shined brightly over the Re-Estize Kingdom's capital city, and despite it and its people still having a long path to recovery ahead of them from Jaldabaoth's attack, a tangible sense of pride hung in the air at being able to accomplish it in the first place. Pride that they managed to weather such a storm, and in the adventurers which helped them to survive such a crisis, when their so-called nobles proved themselve to be all but impotent in the face of such a threat.

Such was the mood in a mid-class inn called "The Silver Nightcap", as a Mythril-ranked team of four strode in, greeted with warm smiles by staff and guests alike. Their leader was a young female warrior with blue eyes, white hair, silver armor, and blue cloak. She possessed a stern, focused demeaner as she stopped at the front-desk, greeted by a young blonde lady in her 20s, wearing simple yet elegant brown and white garments.

"Ah, welcome to The Silver Nightcap, esteemed adventurers. How might we serve you today?"

With a courteous nod, the female warrior wordlessly pulled out an envelope, handing it to the young clerk who quickly glanced at it before a look of understanding flashed over her features upon seeing its seal. She then wordlessly passed a key on to the female warrior, and afterward she smiled and bowed without another word spoken.

The lead warrior and her group then walked to their right toward a door past the front-desk. This was unlocked by the key she was handed, leading to a hallway with a flight of stairs going up. As the group of four filed in, the male thief/rogue-type at the back closed and locked the door behind them as the male magic caster quietly whispered to his comrades.

"So leader, are we going to discuss the rather extensive measures that our client is using to remain hidden?"

"Hm, it shouldn't come as a surprise. Our client does have a good reason to keep her dealings a secret from prying eyes after all."

"I'm not really worried. After all, if the rumors are true, then this is a great opportunity for us." The attractive priestess to his front eagerly commented.

"I know we've already discussed this before coming here boss, but are you sure working with a royal is a smart play?" The thief in the back asked in concern.

"As you said, we've already discussed this, so it's a little late to bring this up again. Still, while I'll admit to having my reservations, she did pay for our travel arrangements, and whether or not we ultimately accept will depend on what she offers being worth the potential for the different kinds of trouble this job could bring us." The leader firmly said.

"Heh. Can't argue with that."

Turning a corner to their right, they reached a room numbered "17", and then the leader lightly knocked three time to announce themselves. There was a pause, before she knocked again in the same manner, another pause, and then knocked twice more before she ceased. There was silence for over a dozen seconds before a sweet, young feminine voice answered from behind the door, answering to the agreed-upon knocking code.

"Enter, please~."

Opening the door and filing in, the adventurers entered a decently furnished common area, spacious enough for at least a dozen people whilst standing. Closing the door behind them, in the room's far-right corner next to a window, sitting at a small round table they saw a beautiful young blonde girl with a doll-like face gingerly sipping tea.

To her right stood a young man in full-plate armor, whilst to her left stood a blue-haired man with a katana on his waist. There was a flash of recognition in the leader's mind, but before she could voice it the young girl spoke in that sweet tone that sounded so innocent that it almost made her heart flutter from its warmth.

"I welcome you, adventurers of Four Armaments. I am your prospective client and the Kingdom's Third Princess, Renner Theiere Chardelon Ryle Vaiself. May I also introduce my bodyguards, Climb and Brain Unglaus."

'"...!"'

As Renner introduced the latter, there were quiet murmurs of recognition and awe from the other three members of the Mythril-ranked team. The leader kept composed as her initial suspicions were confirmed, and in a dignified manner began her introductions.

"On behalf of my team, I give thanks to Your Royal Highness for your most generous invitation. I am the leader of Four Armaments, Scama Elbero. This is our healer and priestess, Lilynette Piani. Then our magic caster Lucius Aldric, and finally our thief and rogue, Bren Ermend."

"..."

As the leader introduced her teammates in turn, Brain sized them all up with a glance. The leader had good poise and bearing, and possessed a keen edge to her eyes that was filled with a kind of quiet determination. Brain felt like he could get along with her easily enough through a shared martial kinship.

The priestess was a bit of a surprise to him. She was positively radiating a mischievous, almost perverse aura, that was accentuated by her style of dress. It was less the garb of a virtuous priestess, and akin to a parody of such that a prostitute accommodating a client's fetish would wear. A feeling that became more pronounced by the sight of the Earth God's holy symbol hanging from her neck being sandwiched in-between her ample, voluptuous bosom.

The team's two men seemed rather plain in comparison to the women, but seemed no less skilled and capable. Although Brain was still left with the impression that if push came to shove, he could take them down with only moderate effort on his part.

"A pleasure to meet you all~. Can we get anything for you?" Renner sincerely offered.

"No thank you, Your Highness. We would not wish to take up more of your valuable time than necessary. So with great respect, I ask that we begin discussions on what you wish of us. Your missive was rather light on details." Scama professionally replied as she bowed at the waist.

Brain had to give credit where it was due. Scama was quite the prudent leader and did not try to suck up to the princess or waste time on frivolity like most others would in a similar position. She was quite the business-minded individual with a great deal of focus and kept her team on task. Again, he felt his impressions of her go up a notch.

"Hm. Very well, Miss Scama. As you are no doubt aware, the capital recently suffered a catastrophic attack at the hands of the terrible Demon Emperor Jaldabaoth during the Demonic Disturbance. While the monster was driven back, many lost their lives or were taken to suffer what we can only assume to be horrible fates. As we do our best in our recovery efforts, we are in need of capable adventurers, now more than ever. I will be candid with you Miss Scama; while I would normally call upon the services of Blue Rose for said aid, some unforeseen events have conspired to rob us of their talents. So I ask you Scama Elbero, will you and your team lend your strength to our cause?"

While Renner's heartfelt words and demure demeanor would have likely charmed most like knights or men-at-arms, such people did not follow the more calculating lifestyle that adventuring demanded. Brain had to resist the urge to sigh at the rather amateurish approach. On a personal level he liked the Gold Princess, thinking the moniker fitting her well on several occasions.

On a more professional level however, he thought her to be an empty-headed idealist who was fundamentally unable to understand the struggles most average individuals went through. Thus in his view, she didn't truly understand their hearts and desires. A viewpoint strengthened by her approach to recruiting this team in Blue Rose's absence.

This was reinforced as he saw Four Armaments wordlessly exchange underwhelmed glances with each other. A team that has been together long enough would certainly have discussed things before even coming here, and prepared accordingly. Indeed, Four Armaments was well aware of rumors circulating the Kingdom's guilds with Blue Rose's recent close call, followed immediately by them disappearing into seclusion to train.

Unfortunately for the Golden Princess however, they were also aware of those rumors of their "other" activities with the princess. While they indeed collectively wished to have their star rise ever higher, especially in light of the rapid rise of Darkness, they were far more apprehensive of being lumped in with the same bunch as Blue Rose in how long they flagrantly disregarded guild policies to not get involved with politically overt quests and entities.

As one of the Kingdom's few Adamantite-ranked teams, Blue Rose could get away with violating guild policies so long as they made at least a toek effort to keep it hidden. But even this hadn't stopped them from ending being on Guildmaster Ameillia Grann's bad graces.

Being only Mythril-ranked team however, Four Armaments did not have such luxuries, and for a moment Scama considered turning the princess down. That was until Lilynette to her side made a pre-arranged, seemingly innocent gesture of scratching her neck with her forefinger that discreetly signaled, "Let's hear her out". While going against Scama's better judgement, seeing the others make no counter-signs caused her to reluctantly nod, agreeing to continue listening.

"Before I give my response on behalf of my team Your Highness, there are certain things I would need clarified." Scama firmly replied.

"Oh, certainly. I will answer whatever I can." Renner eagerly answered in a smile without hesitation.

"I understand recent times have been hard for the capital, and manpower demands are higher than ever for security and rebuilding. However, to be able to properly prepare for whatever situation may come our way, it is important for us to have some idea as to what we'd be doing, before agreeing to come under your employ. I'm sure those of Blue Rose have explained as much in the past."

Giving Scama a mental thumbs-up, Brain had to admit that she did well to diplomatically phrase her reply, implying neither a negative or positive view of Renner's request. This was clearly an adventurer used to dealing with people in positions of power, who were likely not at all used to being questioned.

Knowing how to phrase things in a noncommittal fashion, whilst also pumping for information as tactfully as possible was key to dealing with such clients. Brain had to mentally admit that until a few months ago, he would have fumbled like an idiot, had he found himself in a similar situation.

"Ah, yes, they have at that~. Well, the first and most immediate need would be to help guard the powerful artifact that the demons purportedly sought after, which is currently locked up in the Magician's Guild."

'"...!"'

'Oi... Seriously, Princess?'

Once again, Brain had to resist the urge to sigh and facepalm at how the Princess had just casually shared such crucial information. It wasn't exactly common knowledge and as expected, looks of surprise painted the faces of Four Armaments without reserve. Not surprising all things considered, as even Brain knew better than to just tell something like that to people whose loyalties were far from certain.

"Ahem~! Forgive me Your Highness, but is it wise to share such information when we have yet to commit ourselves to your cause?" Scama asked upon recomposing herself.

"Oh? Are you saying that you and your group are untrustworthy, Miss Scama? Surely an established and reputable team such as yours can keep confidences, can they not? Moreover, how can you make an informed decision if I withhold pertinent information?" Renner innocently asked with a radiant smile.

'Hehe... Maybe the Princess isn't as empty-headed as I thought...'

It was such a simple thing, but even the likes of Brain could tell that they were rattled by the matter-of-fact way she replied. The resigned smirks from Scama's teammates told Brain that she had them there. Now he could see that this conversation was flowing as she wished it to, and there was little question as to would end up now.

"I... see. My apologies, Your Highness. You are correct. Still, while that is an important job, I would have to believe that there's more to it."

"Indeed there is, Miss Scama. In addition to helping guard that artifact I will, when circumstances dictate, require your team to conduct investigations as to its origins and whatever events brought it here, once we're able to effectively collect leads on such knowledge. Also, there will be times I will require your services as bodyguards for my person whenever I go out to help the common people. Naturally, one of the benefits in this arrangement is that you and your team will be on a more semi-permanent retainer in exchange during this time. This will be recognized by the Kingdom's officials, granting a few authoritative uses."

"Begging your pardon, Your Highness, but could you clarify what you meant by, 'one of the benefits'." Scama asked in realization.

"Oh, how silly of me~! I should be the one to apologize, Miss Scama. So used am I in working with Blue Rose that I often forget that I need to elaborate on my intentions. Yes, your receiving regular and substantial pay for your services during the duration will only be part of it. In addition, you will receive support in your primary mission protecting that demonic artifact from Red Drop and Vesture Kloff Di Laufen. Not only that, but I've spoken with them in regards to assisting you all in your training to improve yourselves. Of course, how much you will actually benefit from such an arrangement will depend entirely on your own efforts, but given your reputations I have no doubt that you all will rise to meet the challenge. You will also be provided your own personal lodgings free of charge, and in the event you need anything else, it shall be provided for you."

'"...!"'

Expressions of surprise painted the faces of Four Armaments' members, but it was only natural since such generous terms were far and away beyond what they had imaged. It was not just a case of generous pay and benefits, even if those were magnanimous in the extreme.

No, it was the fact that the likes of Red Drop and even Vesture Kloff Di Laufen, a former Adamantite-plate himself, would so freely share in their trade-secrets. Such a thing would normally be unthinkable to them with a hefty sum being paid to each. At least not without a hefty sum in compensation.

"Forgive me Your Highness, but if I may inquire, how were such prodigious individuals convinced to do such a thing as helping to train a lower-ranked team such as ourselves? Especially when our own emplyment had yet to be confirmed?" Scama professionally asked, doing well to contain her own shock.

"That was relatively easy, since I was the one that helped to draft their original contracts with the Kingdom. In them, I ensured that provisions were present to help in the training of those deemed important to the item's protection and that of the Royal Family. Since my involvement in both qualified, despite their initial reticence they were convinced to acquiesce to my requests." Renner happily answered, as if it were a mere trifle.

As Brain closed his eyes with a light smirk, he could practically imagine the awed faces of Four Armaments as he heard their gasps and gulps of surprise. Frankly, even he would be shocked to see the "Golden Princess" demonstrate such cunning manipulations to see her goals fulfilled. When he reopened his eyes and glanced towards Climb, it was no surprise to see the look awe and ever-increasing devotion the boy had to his mistress.

'If I was the more suspicious or romantic sort, I'd say she was doing this to wrap Climb even more around her little finger, but that'd be ridiculous.' Brain thought to himself with a dismissive shrug.

Indeed, she had the reputation of always trying to help the Kingdom, even if most of her efforts ended in failure. To Brain's eyes, it seemed like the Demonic Disturbance did wonders to help mature the Golden Princess into a much more effective planner and leader. It was gratifying to know that one good thing came from that nightmare.

As he thought this, he noticed Lilynette's expression become like that of a mischievous chipmunk as she motioned to her leader. Scama perked a brow at her, not knowing her teammate's intentions, but relented as she exhaled through her nose and nodded, her permission given to step forward and speak.

"Pardon me Your Highness, but did our ears deceive when you said 'anything else' we may require?"

"Yes~! Anything that is within my power to grant, it shall be done. Just tell Climb if you wish to meet with me, and I will schedule a time for us to discuss whatever your requests may be." Renner replied without hesitation with that same radiant smile that could capture citizens' hearts.

At this this confirmation, Lilynette seemed to beam with delight, but she at least had the social grace to restrain her glee as she glanced to her teammates, who in turn likewise gave their leader approving glances. Once again, it seemed as if a wordless conversation took place to Brain, with each team-member giving their approval of this arrangement.

Scama then folded her arms, closed her eyes, and lowered her head in contemplation at the whole affair. It wasn't difficult for Brain to imagine where this hesitance came from. The entire deal frankly seemed too good to be true, and in his experience, such things almost always were. From Brain's point-of-view however, Renner was determined, if not outright desperate.

Not only did she lose her arms and legs in Blue Rose not-too-recently, but nearly lost her friends in them. Now she was scrambling to replace them so as not to look weak to the opposing Nobles that were always more than happy to pounce on even the slightest perceived Royal weakness. No matter what affect it had on the Kingdom.

At least, that was his impression after a few talks with Gazef over the Kingdom's internal power struggles. Some of which were less sober than others if he was honest. After a moment's consideration, Scama opened her eyes as she again addressed the Golden Princess.

"If I may Your Highness, I have one stipulation before I accept on behalf of my team."

"Oh~? Please, do speak your mind, Miss Scama. What would you have of me?"

"I request that Brain Unglaus be allowed train with us as well. It would be an honor to learn from one who matched the Warrior-Captain in the Grand Tournament years ago."

"Hm... Well, as long as he agrees to that himself, I see no reason to deny such a simple request."

"Ah, I have no problem with that, princess. Honestly, I was going to make that offer anyways, even if Miss Elbero didn't say anything." Brain nonchalantly replied with a shrug.

"You have my thanks, Mr. Unglaus. Truly, I look forward to seeing how I measure up to one such as you." Scama said with a short bow and relieved smile.

"Ah, no need to be so formal with a guy like me. Just call me Brain."

"Hm. Very well, Brain. Then in the spirit of mutual respect, simply call me Scama." She replied with a friendly smile that Brain himself shared in.

"So, I take it that you will be accepting my offer?" Princess Renner asked Scama in a hopeful tone.

"Indeed, Your Highness. On behalf of my team, we accept your terms."

"Wonderful~! Climb, if you would?" Renner happily said as she instructed the young man to her side.

Her bodyguard stepped forward and handed a sealed envelope to Scama whilst bowing, before then promptly returning to Renner's side. The latter of whom continued speaking in that same sweet tone.

"That contains all the information you will require going forward. I hope we will work well together, and in moving forward help our nation and its people become better than before."

"Likewise, Your Highness. Now, if you'll excuse us, we'll need the rest of the day to get settled into our new environment." Scama respectfully said with a bow.

"Of course~! Have a pleasant day, Four Armaments."

Sharing a final set of glances, the Mythril-ranked team bowed and then filed out of the room, even as Brain's mind gave him warning signals about the priestess Lilynette Piani. Warnings that she was an opportunistic sort that saw this entire affair as something that could be turned to her advantage. What form that would take he was uncertain, but something about her made him feel uneasy.

"Congratulations, Your Highness~! I knew you could secure their support." Climb chimed in with praising tones as soon as the adventurers were gone.

"Ah, thank you my dear Climb~! It means the world to me to have your confidence and support."

"Yes~! Always, Your Highness." Climb eagerly replied, his determination and devotion clear to see.

'Heh... Seriously, these two repressed lovebirds are just ridiculous sometimes.' Brain mentally scoffed as he smirked, and then spoke in a casual tone.

"Oi, Princess? Shall we get a move on? I know you wanted to keep this meeting hidden and all, so the sooner we get back to the palace the better."

"Ah, quite right, Brain. Thank you for your consideration and focus. I'll be continuing to depend upon you in the coming months~."

"Think nothing of it, Princess. I'm just a simple warrior after all, and swinging a sword is one of the few things I'm good at. Although, now that I think about it, I do have a request of my own."

"Oh~? Speak then. What would you have of me?"

"Well, I was just thinking that this would be a good opportunity for Climb to also train alongside the best the Kingdom has to offer. So, what say you, princess? Can you allow him to attend?" Brain nonchalantly asked as he donned a dark-brown long-coat, leather helm with visor, and a Gold-plate adventurer tag as his disguise.

"B-Brain, why would you-?!" Climb began in a flustered tone before Brain cut him off with a sigh.

"Because you're too loyal to make any requests of the princess yourself. We both know that you wanted the chance to train with these people, but you just couldn't bring yourself to ask."

"Climb~? Is this true?" Renner asked, turning to Climb with a perplexed look.

"Uh, y-yes! My apologies, Your Highness." Climb contritely said with a deep bow.

"Oh, don't be silly, Climb~! You of all people should know that you can always ask me for any favor you wish. Training with them is perfectly fine. I know that you have been wanting to improve yourself more ever since that dreadful business with the demons. So you can go ahead and attend the training without worrying about me. I can schedule my time to be with my brother Zanac or with my father the King. Their own guards shall be enough to protect me during those times."

"Y-Yes~! Thank you very much, Your Highness. Your generosity is truly boundless!" Climb acknowledged with a deep bow and tone of gratitude.

"Oi, kid? Save that for when we're outta here. Get a move on. You too, Princess. " Brain said with a light chuckle as he shook his head.

"Ahem~! R-Right." Climb replied with reddened face.

As Renner giggled at Climb's embarrassment, she donned a plain dark cloak that hid her dress and features perfectly. Meanwhile, Climb donned his full helm and a Gold-ranked plate from his pouch. He then removed a dark-gray gelatinous mass from another pouch and slapped it onto his armor. The [Magic Dye] did its work as his armor took on its color and their façade of being adventurers guarding a client was complete.

Brain took the lead as they wordlessly filed out of the room, locking the door behind them. Unbeknownst to the two, Renner had hidden a note under the table she was using, and after a few moments passed, the black-purplish portal of a [Gate] opened next to it.

Seconds later, Demiurge then stepped out of the portal which remained open for him. Smirking at the quaint decor that was wholly inferior to that of Nazarick, he pulled out Renner's note having known where it would be and read its contents. His smile then grew widely with an undercurrent of cunning and amused malice as he chuckled, thinking to himself.

'Well, well~... It seems that one of Renner's newest pawns has the most interesting of tastes. One to three elven boys between the ages of 75 and 95, and possessing some magical potential if possible, is it? Hmm... I'm sure that our master's newest acquisition in Zuranon can handle this, since they have connections in the Empire's slave trade. This is even line with my breeding experiments, so I see no reason to deny Renner's request.'

Lighting the scrap of paper in blackened flame, Demiurge's malicious chuckles continued as he re-entered the still-open [Gate], which closed behind him. Yes, he was pleased with Renner's handling of her newest pawns so early in the game, and would continue to watch things unfold with all due interest...

...

In the western-most part of the Dragon Kingdom most directly bordering the Baharuth Empire, lay the city of Ruhahe Taoul. It was built upon the ruins of another civilization that had fallen, and renamed by the Brightness Dragon Lord himself when he founded the Dragon Kingdom. Next to the capital, it is considered one of the oldest and most important cities in the country.

It functioned as an important hub for trade and information gathering, being one of the few places that led around the enormous mountain chain separating the Empire from the Dragon Kingdom. This city was an important lifeline of trade and travel, ever since the beastman invasion began in earnest. Far from the frontlines, it was considered one of the few places safe from the savages seeking to conquer the nation.

It was this city that functioned as a base of operations for the adamantite-level Worker Team, Blazing Crimson. They were famous for not only their strength, but the high price-tag commanding their services. Such an illustrious group helped to bring in foreign travelers and traders, hoping to secure their services.

It was now midday as the trade-city went about its daily routine. In the high-class district a man with dark-orange hair, brown eyes, and wearing light leather garments normally associated with adventurers slowly walked upon the cobblestone sidewalk. The bow and quiver upon his back and tri-pointed headwear would have cemented the impression of him being an adventurer, if not for the lack of an adventurer plate.

Stopping in-front of a high-class inn, the sign above the double-door entrance read "The Emerald Belvedere", in the Dragon Kingdom's unique script that bore no resemblance to any written language in any of the other human nations. It was often said that theirs was a simplified form of draconic script, passed down from their nation's founder.

Pushing one of the double-doors in, the man entered the main lobby, seeing only a few individuals lounging about, reading, drinking, or simply relaxing in the quiet atmosphere. Seeing so few did not surprise him. Even if this was a trade-city, the war had taken its toll on the Dragon Kingdom, which found itself in ever increasing financial hardship.

"Hm? Ah, Messere Derulo. A pleasure to see you again."

The black-haired, blue-eyed clerk in his late-30s at the front desk greeted with a smile as he addressed the man that walked in, whom replied with a curt nod and soft, business-like tone.

"Are they in?"

"Yes, indeed they are. You will find them at their usual table."

"My thanks."

Giving the clerk a silver, the man named Derulo walked around the corner and up a set of stairs to a second-floor area leading to a private room for the inn's VIP guests. Upon reaching its door, he knocked three times, paused, knocked three more, and paused again before hearing a muffled reply from the other side.

"Enter."

Opening the door, he crossed the threshold into a sizable, luxuriously furnished room with a private bar, pantry, and three different tables with red-colored covers. There, five individuals occupied the room, with the closest greeting him with a jovial tone.

"Yo~! Well, it if isn't our favorite bard! Come on in and have a drink~!"

Her name was Layla, a native of the Wyvern Rider Territories and was a tall, muscular, shapely woman who looked as if her physique was sculpted by the hands of a master artisan. She had a rugged beauty that was as fierce and powerful as it was alluring, with long, curly and wavy blonde hair reaching down to the small of her back.

Her wide smile of pearly-white teeth and red eyes filled with life and energy only helped give her an approachable and jovial air. For as long as he's known her, she was always the life of the party, drinking and making merry better than some of the men. Whom she would likely bed that very same evening. A chuckle escaped his lips as that thought crossed his mind and greeted her with a hand-wave.

Despite this however, her attire was no less imposing, as she wore the magically treated skins and fur-hide of a red-colored, lion-type Beastman Alpha that she and her team killed in a battle to the Dragon Kingdom's eastern border. It possessed good protections against attacks, but also gave her a fearsome appearance. Especially to those beastmen that her team have encountered. Even if it did make her look like a barbarian.

"My thanks for the offer Layla, but sadly I'm here on business, not pleasure."

"Aw, so disappointin'. But I guess it can't be helped." Layla said with a shrug as she enthusiastically began downing a bottle of amber-colored spirits.

"Umu... You are to be commended for your handling of her advances, Derulo-san." A voice professionally commented from a table to the side.

"My thanks, Rukei."

"Hm."

Blazing Crimson's next member was a foreigner from the south called, "Rukei". He was unusual in an already rich collection of singular individuals, with short-trimmed black hair and black eyes that were slightly more "narrow" than was common among the Dragon Kingdom's "round eyes" as he once put it, and tanned skin.

Mostly a quiet and reserved type of man, he possessed a kind of silent intensity, which often saw him described as a "quiet volcano", waiting for a time to burst. Making those not familiar with him afraid of the day when his cool, calm exterior finally broke. Derulo never worried over such things, but understood where such sentiments came from.

He wore light, green-colored lacquer armor over vestments of brown and green that was well suited for blending into forested environments. Although he understood it had the ability to magically change color and patterns, depending on his surroundings. Slung behind his head and onto his upper back was an unusual round and pointed headpiece from his homeland called a "Jingasa". A face mask hung from his neck under his chin that could cover his nose, mouth, and lower-half of his face.

While his appearance and garb was unique unto itself, the most intriguing part were the weapons he brought with him from the south. Cleaning and polishing a long, black and brown object of both metal and wooden construction, was a long-distance weapon he called a "musket".

He had no idea how it worked, and only knew that it expelled a lead ball in a burst of thunder and orange-red flash of fire. It's range and power put to shame anything he could do with his bow without [Martial Arts]. He had a smaller version holstered on his waist called a "pistol" used for more "close encounters", along with a pair of curved blades he called, "Kukri Daggers".

While some had offered large sums for his unique and powerful weapons to be studied, he flat-out refused any such overtures, no matter what the price. The man was an enigma, as he likewise refused to speak of where he came from, even to the team which he has shared life and limb for the last few years.

When asked why he decided to settle in the war-torn Dragon Kingdom, his reply was merely, "I cannot go back, and you lot are all I know". Respecting his cryptic answer, due to the unspoken taboo of delving too deeply into teammates' personal affairs, they were simply happy to have a reliable and trustworthy scout, tracker, lock-picker, and "sniper".

"Good day to you, Derulo. And I must agree with Rukei's assessment. You do indeed handle yourself well around Layla." A young voice chimed in at another table.

"..."

Before Derulo could reply, Layla's boisterous voice interjected in a teasing tone.

"Hah-hah-hah~! Says the virtuous temple-boy that's never even had a drink b'fore."

"Hmph! As opposed to the shameless, barbarian wyvern rider that drinks like a fish and beds whatever man that tickles her fancy. For shame I say!" The young man in white and red priestly robes rebuked in disapproval.

"Hah-hah-hah~! Don't worry temple-boy... My bedchamber's always open to yer skinny, half-elfy arse." She teased back with a wry smile, making the young man redden scarlet before sharply turning his head away.

"Hmph! I-I have n-no interest in such... things."

"Aw~! Our priest's all embarrassed."

"Pffft~!"

Derulo stifled a laugh as the rest of the team chuckled at the back and forth that was all too common between Layla and their half-elf healer, Thadiun Vulwin. Considered to be a prude by many, he had an overly serious, yet kind-hearted personality that made it easy to tease him by his teammates, but never was it malicious.

It just showed how close their friendship was that they could make fun and tease each other in such a fashion. From what Derulo knew, he an was orphan taken in by the Temple of the Four Great Gods at an early age, and raised by the Temple's High Priest as if he were his own son, despite being a half-elf.

He is a handsome young man with snow-white hair, strong yet soft features, and gold-yellow eyes that glisten behind a pair of mythril spectacles. A trait commonly associated with those born in the Dragon Kingdom, which has led some to speculate that one of his parents was a Kingdom native.

"Heh... Ah, really. You open yourself to such poking and prodding far too easily Thadiun. As I have told you on more than one occasion, perception is reality, and that perception can be used to manipulate and control not only the nature of reality, but destiny itself. So long as you persist in rebuking her lifestyle choices without a more 'experienced' life of your own, it shall always be your destiny to be the butt of her jokes."

A more mature and scholarly voice chimed in next to Thadiun as man in scarlet and black-colored garb read a book and nursed a glass of wine in a relaxed fashion. This man was the next member of Blazing Crimson, Tristan Fockler. He was possessed of strong features, mid-length silver hair, aqua-blue eyes, and an odd combination of relaxed and business-like countenance.

"Hmph... That philosophy of yours again... It is hubris to think we can control the threads of our destiny so completely. Not when fate and the gods themselves are always waiting in the aether's wings to teach us otherwise." Thadin firmly countered.

"Oh? I would counter that people's idea of 'fate' is little more than an excuse to throw themselves upon the chaotic nature of causality. If you ever take anything away from what I say Thadiun, then let it be this; there is no fate but what we make for ourselves. And if the gods take issue with that, then let them appear to teach me otherwise."

"Do not be so dismissive, my friend. Not when you know it doesn't work like that..."

'Oh, here we go again...'

Derulo could only sigh at the budding theological debate between the two, which was a common occurrence between them. Despite their friendship and comradeship, their views on many things were like oil and water. Not a surprising thing, when considering the fact that Tristan practiced such a completely different magical art when compared to the temple-raised healer of the group.

Tristan was once an adventurer years ago, but disappeared following a beastman raid from before the all-out invasion the Kingdom now suffered. He would then reappear much later, offering little in the way of explanation as to where he's been, beyond the rather vague reference of a "pale-skinned elf" that saved his life. Whoever, or whatever his savior was, it was they that taught Tristan in his magical arts.

"Alright, you two... That's enough banter for now. Derulo said he's here on business, and I for one would like hear what he has to say."

A strong, yet calm and authoritative voice echoed in the room and all at once, everyone present stopped what they were doing and gave the final individual in the room at the back their undivided attention. He was a man in his early-30s with bright-red hair, sharp-blue eyes, strong chin, and a single scar running down the lengths of the left-side of his face over his eye.

Smoking a popular, albeit expensive, import from the Karnassus City-State Alliance called a "cigar", he put out it's remaining nub in a nearby ashtray as he likewise gave Derulo his undivided attention. A prolific warrior who's strength and skill was spoken of along the likes of Gazef Stronoff, Brain Unglaus, Luisenberg Alberion, Vesture Kloff Di Laufen, and Cerabrate, this was the leader and founder of Blazing Crimson, Optics.

Having known him for years, Derulo knew that he could sometimes come off as stiff and unapproachable, since he is normally a serious man, with a business-like demeanor and attitude. Although not much of a people-person, once you have earned your place and his respect however, he will be more willing to open up and allow some few moments of levity. Which is why he allowed everyone their greetings before speaking up.

"Hehe... 'Tis good to see you too, Optics. Now, as to that matter you asked me to look into, I have completed my investigations into the 'Fire-Leaf' concern and their offers." Derulo said in an relaxed, yet firm manner.

"Hoh~! That was quick." Layla boisterously exclaimed in surprise.

"Hmm... As expected of Derulo-san. Most efficient." Rukei stoically praised.

Derulo took their compliments in stride as he took out a small, pouch-sized notebook from the stachel that hung from his shoulder. He opened it from where a red-colored marker indicated as he parsed the contents, written in a code that only he could understand to ensure the confidentiality of his clients.

Especially since as Workers, Blazing Crimson did not have the investigative resources of an Adventurer's Guild to perform reconnaissance on prospective jobs. So people like Derulo became an all-important facet of their livelihood, if they were unable to conduct their own investigations.

"On the surface, they appear to be a legitimate business that deals in the trade of goods and services that ranges from everything to foodstuffs, medicines, potions, magic items, to even bodyguard and courtesan work. However, things get a little dodgy as one takes a closer look at them. Originally a much smaller outfit, operating under a different name, they then suddenly and wildly grew by absorbing many other smaller businesses and operations, ranging from legitimate to not-so-legal."

"Hmm... I see... And? What were the nature of their takeovers?" Optics asked in a dispassionate, analytical tone.

"That's the interesting part; they've been mostly peaceful, with only a few instances of violence. But the amount of coin they've been throwing around kind of borders on the absurd. The money trail itself is also a mystery." Derulo replied in a dubious tone.

"Wait, what are you saying? Given what you've described, to grow like they have so quickly, they'd need to transport such large sums via caravans, runners, couriers, and guards. That should make them easy to track, no?" Tristan asked Derulo in keen interest.

"Ordinary? Yes, it would. But in this case, it's like they were able to move to each location simultaneously, with funds in tow. At least according to my contacts."

"Hmm... Could they be lying to you?" Optics contemplatively asked as he cradled his chin with his left-thumb and index-finger.

"Hehe. Some of them maybe, but all of them? Not a chance in hells. No, as far as I've been able to confirm, this information is accurate."

"Hm... This sounds rather questionable. To move so quickly, with such funds to achieve what you described, is not something that could be done through normal means. The only ways I could see this being done is either though slow, meticulous machinations with the support of a larger organization, or through coordinated use of teleportation magicks. The latter of which seems unlikely." Thadiun thoughtfully interjected.

"Hmph... Surprisingly, I find myself somewhat agreeing with our 'temple-boy'. This all sounds so... questionable." Tristan dryly commented, with Thadiun wearily sighing at the subtle jab.

"That being the case, could the Empire be behind this?" Rukei asked in his usual reserved manner.

"It's... possible, but I have no information to support that speculation. But given how the head of the Fire-Leaf Concern has a number of operations there, as well as other places, it can't be ruled out either. Especially when she has been so active in trying to recruit help for the war."

"Speaking of which, other than our team, has this 'Shauna Gilmore' approached any other parties to that end?" Optics pointedly asked.

"Ah, yes. From what my contacts have managed to learn, she's hired a skilled up-and-coming team of Orichalcum-plate Adventurers from Re-Estize called, 'Unity Four'. Apparently they really made a name for themselves during that demon attack on their capital."

"Oi~! Only Orichalcum-plate? What good will that do?" Layla skeptically asked as she chewed on a slip of grilled meat.

"From what I've managed to gather, they were able to fend off some powerful demons, some above their Difficulty Rating, saving a lot of civilians, city-guards, and their fellow adventurers. Couldn't get more specifics beyond that unfortunately."

"Let us not worry about that for now, Layla." Optics firmly injected.

"Whatever you say, chief." She replied with a shrug.

"Go on, Derulo. Who else?"

"I've caught wind of some mercenaries being hired, but nothing specific I'm afraid. She's also hired a team of all-female Workers from the Imperial city of Rothar called, 'Scarlet Lilies'. They're a fairly decent group on par with Orichalcum-plates, but when one of their main frontliners married up into a noble family, they stopped taking in requests. That is until they met with this Shauna Gilmore."

"Just one Worker team? Doesn't the Empire have many Workers? I thought she'd have approached them as well." Thadiun inquisitively commented.

"From what my contacts in Arwinter said, she did indeed approach many Worker groups during her time there, but they turned her down. Mostly because they weren't interested in getting involved in a warzone."

"And these 'Scarlet Lilies' did? For that matter, who are they? I don't believe I've ever heard of them."

"Oh? I've heard of them. As I understand it, they styled themselves after Re-Estize's Blue Roses. Although I'm curious what could have changed their minds after meeting with this Gilmore woman, and why they accepted when other Worker teams turned her offers down." Tristan mused aloud in curiosity.

"Well, it might have something to do with a rumor I caught wind of from my contacts in Rothar. It seems that immediately after, she visited with the former Martial Lord of the Arena, Kullervo Palantynen. What came of that meeting, I cannot say." Derulo said matter-of-factly.

"Now hold on a tick~! You sayin' she managed to wrangle the Corrosive Wolf?!" Layla exclaimed in a mixture of surprise, disbelief, and even excitement.

"Be calm, Layla-san. He has already said that he does not know. Although the timing does make it seem that way." Rukei interjected with a calm, placating tone.

"Indeed. Calm down, Layla. The timing is rather coincidental. But to go so far as to try and court that man, it makes me wonder more about this Gilmore woman. Were you able to dig up any more information about her, Derulo?" Optics pensively asked Derulo.

"No, there's so little information about her, it makes me think that 'Shauna Gilmore' is little more than an alias."

"Hmm... Everything about this situation is questionable and suspect..." Optics mumbled under his breath.

"What will you do, leader?" Tristan plainly asked.

What indeed, as Optics thought on the matter. When Shauna Gilmore's people made their overtures and offers to help in the war, he immediately felt something was off, and thus commissioned his old acquaintance Derulo to look into it. Always a level-headed kind of individual, he never accepted a job based on monetary value alone. He always weighed risk/reward careful, and put his team first.

Of course, some of them dearly wanted to help the beleaguered Dragon Kingdom. This was especially true for Thadiun and Layla, but such was their personal loyalty to him that they would not go against his word. Nor was he given to indulge in extremes of vice such as alcohol, narcotics, women, and gambling. So none could take advantage of him in that regard.

Although the box of expensive cigars, which happened to be his favorite, given to them as part of their overtures only made him more wary of them. Of course, the pay was generous, as well as the promises of support in the form of potions and supplies, but if he was going to accept a long-term contract of such dubious nature, he would meet with the woman who appeared to be at the center of this all.

"Derulo, get in contact with this 'Shauna Gilmore'. I would meet with her before making any kind of decision."

"Oh? In that case, I'll be on that right away. If you'll excuse me..."

"Yo~! Try not to be a stranger now! In fact, why dont'cha join us?" Layla said with an overly friendly tone.

"Pffft! If that's a joke it's in poor taste, Layla. You're all Adamantite-level monsters, and a simple Orichalcum-level bard like me would be out-of-place." Derulo dismissed in a humorous tone and hand wave.

"A shame, but you always were a hard Worker~!" Layla said with a mischievous tone and wink, before Derulo chuckled and excused himself from the room, bidding them farewell in what could be an interesting turn of events.

...

*A/N: Hiya folks~! I hope you're all enjoying the Holidays as 2022 ends. No clue when I'll be able to get Ch.23 out, but I'll keep everyone posted via my Bio page. Although I feel it prudent to inform everyone that since I'm running out of canon characters, expect more OCs to appear. This shouldn't be a surprise. Overlord's author has failed to flesh out more of the New World in his haste to prematurely end his own series. Even characters referenced but never shown (i.e. Optics, etc) are running out, leaving fanfic authors like me to continue world-building efforts, on account of the OG author giving up on his own series. Also, remember this is a story of Madara and folks making big impacts on the NW, which is an entire WORLD for those that need reminders. So the need to create OCs filling certain positions/roles is necessary. Especially when Madara is recruiting FROM the NW. I hope that clears things up for everyone moving forward. Until then, everyone take care, and Happy New Year~!*