(1/2/23) Sorry for any of you who were expecting a new chapter with this update. In the past, I've made some slight edits to earlier chapters of this story, merely replacing the contents of the chapter so it wouldn't appear as a 'new chapter'. However, I was disappointed with the final part of this chapter, and felt it needed to be fleshed out a little more. Given the addition of so much new content, I felt that those who have read the new chapter already deserved to be alerted of the revised version. So for those of you who already read this chapter, just skip towards the end where it transitions to the Theocracy. Once again, thanks for reading, and leave a follow, favorite, and/or review!

(12/16/22) Hey everyone, I've had the first half of this chapter sitting around for a while so I finally sat down and knocked it out. I'm finally getting close to a few big events in the story that I know will be incredibly fun to write, and thus faster to write as well. This story will be a minimum of 100k words before I even consider finishing it, as I certainly have enough plot ideas to branch it out to that level. I also have an ending in mind too, so things will start to fall into place as we reach the middle of the story as a whole. Once again, thanks for checking out the new chapter, and please, leave a follow, favorite, and review, it's what helps motivate me to deliver new chapters. Feel free to check out my new story idea as well, it's a DBS x DC crossover, so it's a bit different from my usual isekai content.

Chapter 7: Plans for the Future

After several hours of travel, the adventurer party protecting Nferia Bareare consisting of the Swords of Darkness, Momon and Nabe, as well as Diablo and Rose, decided to take a brief rest from their travels.

Having found an open area nestled next to a river and the edge of the forest, it was a tactical place to stop, allowing them full view of the surrounding area, and a much needed source of fresh drinking water.

The group was roughly halfway to Carne village, and would have to complete the rest of their journey after sleeping through the night.

Diablo felt that it was pointless to camp out during the night as long as Rose was with them, given she didn't require sleep like a human, but such a fact was something he didn't think was worth revealing to the others.

I managed to explain away my demonic heritage, but I don't know how they'd process it if I told them Rose was an automaton… Just like in my world, the technology for such a thing doesn't exist here…

Despite their middle ages level of technology, the magic of this world was much more sophisticated. He had learned from Ninya and Nferia that there was low level magic for creating certain food items like salt and sugar, something that didn't exist in Cross Reverie.

In a real world where supplies like that are essential for the proliferation of civilization, it'd make sense that the development of magic would vary greatly from a game world…

While some party members were sifting through supplies from the wagon, the rest of the group was idling around, on alert for any possible threats.

The professional silence was broken by the one Diablo had it expected it from, Lukrut.

"Nabe, Rose, you two always look so composed! Is it because you truly trust in my eyes and ears after all?"

While it was true that as a ranger class, something that Diablo was unfamiliar with in the context of Cross Reverie, yet knew of from other MMO terminology, had enhanced senses compared to the rest of his team, they paled in comparison to the sensory abilities of a level 150 warrior like Rose.

"Not you. It's because Mr. Momon is here."

Standing behind her, Momon rested a hand on her shoulder to make sure her response ended there.

Rose shared a similar sentiment to that of Nabe.

"As far as I'm concerned, you are dead weight in the presence of Diablo. Even my own abilities are more than enough to assure our safety."

The venomous response that Rose espoused made Diablo nervous, but luckily for him, Lukrut's temperament only thrived from such rejections.

"Ah, come on guys! I mean, aren't you two duos lovers, after all?

Oh no, he really said that!

"L-L-Lovers?! What are you saying?! He has Lady Albedo by his side-"

Momon reacted immediately by trying to cut her off, but it was far too late for that.

"Hey! Wait! What are you saying?!"

Raising both hands to her mouth, Nabe had an intensely worried look on her face, like what she had just divulged was incredibly sensitive information.

Conversely, Rose had brought a hand to her now blushing cheeks, a wide smile caked on her face.

"Diablo and I? Lovers?"

She seemed to have the complete opposite reaction to that of Nabe, leaning into Lukrut's assumption entirely.

In a case like this, I think the safest thing for everyone present is if I just say nothing… Everyone's attention seems more focused on Momon and Nabe anyways…

"Mr. Lukrut, can you please stop looking into our personal lives?"

Lukrut slyly waved off his previous claim, not wanting to upset the man he assumed to be the strongest among their group.

"Oh, excuse me then. I didn't know that Mr. Momon already had someone in his life."

He then immediately tried to pivot towards Rose, who hadn't given a clear answer, but the moment he looked towards her, he was met with a harsh denial.

"Don't get the wrong idea, worm. Diablo's might is far too great to be tied down to a single woman, but I serve him and him ALONE."

Laughing sheepishly while holding his hands up in defeat, his leader Peter chimed in to deescalate the situation.

"Mr. Momon, Diablo, I apologize on behalf of my friend here. I know that it's taboo to pry into another's past."

His helmet obscuring whatever emotion might be showing on his face, Momon replied calmly despite his angst over the initial ordeal.

"No, no. There is no problem, as long as he is careful from here on out."

I hope this warning is enough to stop his antics going forward, I don't know if he'd escape with his life if he offended either Rose or Nabe…

"Lukrut, you really need to stop this-"

Peter was cut off as Lukrut raised his hand to cut him off, his attention turning towards the tree line at the horizon.

"Looks like they started to make their move."

Not knowing exactly what he meant, Diablo turned his head in the same direction, realizing that Rose had already drawn her double headed sword from her back.

Of course Rose would already be aware of an oncoming threat, I imagine she was too distracted by the "lovers" comment to vocalize it though…

"Where are they?"

Peter questioned the ranger as he pointed towards the treeline, from which the oncoming threat began to crest into everyone's vision.

It was a horde of what appeared to be ogres armed with makeshift clubs, along with goblins, some of which were donned with basic armor and swords.

"Nferia, please stay hidden in the horse cart, we'll take care of this."

"Yes, I'll be in your care!"

Turning to whom he believed to be the most experienced, Peter asked Momon how to proceed.

"Mr. Momon, how should we split our forces?"

These guys are treating this as if we're dealing with a group of fallen… Unless the non-demonic monsters of this world are way stronger than what I'm familiar with, this should be a breeze…

"Can you all please protect Mr. Nferia? Let us show him how easily we can handle this."

"Roger that. We'll give you as much combat support as we can afford to."

Wanting to ensure the threat was dealt with in its entirety, Ninya chimed in with an important point.

"If we start fighting here, there's a good chance some of them will escape into the forest."

Having a long history of working together, the teamwork of the Swords of Darkness began to manifest.

"Let's do the usual then! Pull out the turtle's head from its shell."

Dyne agreed with Lukrut's plan, continuing to flesh out their formation of attack.

"That sounds good. Peter, though Mr. Momon will block the enemy's attack, how shall we deal with the enemies that manage to get through?"

"I'll use the martial art [Fortress] in order to hold the ogres back! Dyne will take care of the goblins."

"Understood."

"Ninya will protect me with defensive magic. After that, follow the flow of battle and focus on attack magic."

"Yes, roger!"

"You hunt the goblins as well, Lukrut. If any ogres break through, block them!"

"Leave it to me!"

It was evident to Diablo that this was par for the course with an adventuring team that was used to working together, something he had forgone entirely during his time playing Cross Reverie.

"Mr. Momon, Diablo, will that be acceptable?"

Momon replied with a simple 'yes', however, Diablo couldn't help but laugh at what he saw as unnecessary planning.

"Your foresight in battle is greater than I had anticipated, but I'll ask that you leave this to the Demon Lord!"

There was a cacophony of "eh?'s" as Diablo took flight and soared over to the horde of ogres and goblins, floating over them menacingly.

Pulling his staff from its attachment at his waist, he gave the incantation for it to reveal its true power.

"Change into the form that I demand, 《Tonnerre Empereur• Libéré》!"

At his command, his staff began to transform before everyone's eyes, as the crystal that sat at its top shifted to the side, and from the opening a blade of what looked like solid light emerged, in the shape of a sword.

"Mr. Momon, have you ever seen a magical weapon like that before?"

The resident magic caster of the Swords of Darkness looked up in awe along with the rest of his teammates as Diablo prepared for battle.

"No, I must say that weapon is entirely unorthodox compared to anything I've seen."

Unbeknownst to everyone else though, Ainz had seen the capabilities of Diablo's 《Tonnerre Empereur• Libéré》while spectating his defense of Carne village days ago.

I knew that this man had no restraint, but to use what must be a God level item so casually in front of these low level adventurers, he truly wants to show off at every opportunity…

Before any of the other adventurers could begin their plan of attack, Diablo pointed his staff downwards towards the horde of monsters.

"Flames of scorching fury, come forth! 《Burst Rain》!"

The level 70 fire elemental spell that Diablo called upon summoned over a dozen magic circles in front of him, amplified seven times over by the effects of his 《Tonnerre Empereur• Libéré》.

From all the magic circles, a barrage of explosive fireballs began raining down on the helpless monsters below.

There was no time for the ogres or goblins to retreat as they were burned asunder by the countless magical projectiles of fire. Even the notoriously durable ogres succumbed to the spell as their thick skin was charred black, causing them all to crumple to the ground.

The Swords of Darkness stood with their mouths agape at what they had just witnessed. They had all assumed that someone with gear as prestigious as Diablo could wield powerful magic, but this was something beyond the realm of what they understood magic to be capable of.

"Uh, Ninya… Did you recognize the spell he just used?"

Ninya clasped his own staff close to his chest, feelings of awe and fear coursing through him as he took in the reality of what he had just seen.

"N-No… It seemed similar to the third tier spell [Fireball], but it was as if he casted it dozens of times all at once…"

Ainz internally sighed at the whole ordeal, wishing he could've had a chance to build the reputation of his adventurer persona by cleaving through the ogres on his own.

It seems like Diablo is going to be a bigger thorn in my plans than I had initially anticipated…

While everyone else continued standing around starstruck, Ainz had begun moving towards the corpses of the slain monsters.

I may as well confirm my own theories about the existence of data crystals in this world, so this endeavor won't be entirely wasted…

After scanning the field of charred monsters below for any movement, Diablo concluded it was a successful bombardment and floated back down to the other adventurers, noting that Momon was investigating the corpses of the monsters alone.

The first to speak up among the Swords of Darkness was their leader, Peter.

"Diablo, that magic you just used, what tier was that? Irregardless, that was something I would expect only of an adamantite ranked adventurer, no, maybe even stronger!"

Diablo had been met with this terminology of "tier magic" several times since appearing in this world. He still wasn't sure whether it was a colloquial way of measuring the magic he was familiar with, or a different system altogether.

At this point, I'm leaning towards the second… Yet the fact that all my spells and equipment function as normal means they would have to operate on the same fundamental principles…

"In the realm that I hail from, we measure spells on a level system, ranging from one up to one hundred and fifty. That spell I used, 《Burst Rain》, was a level seventy fire elemental spell. Where that fits on your own scaling, you can figure out for yourselves."

While everyone started trying to do mental math conversions based on a level system they had never heard of, Ninya spoke up with an obvious implication of Diablo's explanation.

"So what you're saying is that 《Burst Rain》 is only a middle tier spell? What kind of magic would be considered of a high tier then? As far as I know, humans are only capable of magic up to the fifth tier, I've never even heard of anything above that!"

Ehh… Did I reveal too much with that explanation? I mean, I want them to see me as a demon lord with overwhelming power but, are they going to expect a demonstration?!

The other Swords of Darkness looked towards Diablo, waiting for his answer after comprehending the magnitude of Ninya's question.

"I said I was a demon lord, remember? Comparing me to the feats of mortal men is a waste of time!"

Most of the group regarded him with skeptical looks, but there was no denying the adamantite level power they had just witnessed Diablo so casually use to decimate the horde of monsters.

"Well, I hope we get a chance to see some of your true magical power one day, Diablo. I think you've more than convinced everyone here that you're cut from a different cloth."

Lukrut held a hand sheepishly to head, a confused smile on his face as he praised the self-proclaimed demon lord.

While everyone was curious about Diablo's performance, Momon approached the group after tenuously studying the corpses of the ogres and Goblins.

"I overheard some of your conversation, Diablo. Your prowess as a magic caster was clearly not understated."

Despite Momon's words of praise, his partner standing beside him seemed to look annoyed at the whole ordeal. Perhaps realizing the source of her emotions, Rose made sure to capitalize on the opportunity.

"You lot could only hope to comprehend the true depths of Diablo's power. It's a shame we didn't get to see Nabe use any of her magic, not like it would've compared by any metric."

Nabe's annoyed glance turned into one of full on rage, as not only was she insulted directly, but as a creation of the supreme beings, it was a slight against them as well.

Momon quickly placed a firm hand on her shoulder, wanting to make sure she didn't have an outburst that revealed crucial information like she had done earlier.

"Nabe, I'm sure she said that only to jest. We are a team, remember?"

Rose had a gleeful look as her counterpart reluctantly clamped her mouth shut and looked away, knowing that she had struck a place of insecurity.

"Getting things back on track, is it normal for slain monsters to not drop crystals? I found none during my brief search of the corpses."

While everyone else was still uncomfortable over the stifled confrontation between the two female members of their party, Momon's question managed to replace the awkward tension with confusion.

"Crystals? I don't think we've ever seen ogres or goblins carrying around precious gems or any type of 'crystal'."

"I see."

Monsters dropping crystals? That sounds like something out of a game… Although Cross Reverie never had a mechanic like that. Slain monsters would drop XP, gold, and sometimes gear of varying quality depending on the level of the monster…

Momon did say he was from a far off country, so it's possible the monsters he dealt with there were known for hoarding gems or other precious materials similar to dragons… Still, that was an incredibly odd question for him to ask…

The rest of the Swords of Darkness nodded along with the words of their leader, as he once again took charge to give his party directions.

"Anyways, why don't we get to work on collecting evidence of our kills for the guild?"

"Our? Let's be honest with ourselves, the only one who deserves credit for this is Diablo. None of us even had to break a sweat!"

Lukrut was quick to point out what was likely on everyone else's minds. Despite his usual propension for self-fulfillment, money from the guild wasn't worth possibly earning the ire of someone like Diablo.

Damn… I thought killing all the monsters would help cement myself as a demon lord in everyone's eyes… I didn't think I'd be gypping them out of their livelihood…

"Divy the spoils amongst yourselves, a demon lord doesn't require such a paltry sum."

Diablo's response was surprising to the rest of the group, but they also understood that he clearly came from a wealthy background based on his gear. The guild would pay a generous sum for this amount of slain monsters, especially the ogres, yet compared to the gold in Diablo's treasure room, it was nothing.

The only issue is that my Cross Reverie currency may be regarded as suspicious or simply denied altogether. I'll have to look into either finding someone who will give me Re-Estize currency in exchange, or perhaps melting some of the gold into bars and selling them that way…

Regardless, Diablo had no knowledge on smelting metals, so no matter what he'd have to find someone to help ease his money troubles.

"That's incredibly generous of you Diablo. I promise the Swords of Darkness will repay you somehow."

Peter was genuinely thankful, as Diablo had every right to claim all the spoils for himself. Despite being perturbed by his standoffish attitude, the demonic man had been nothing but benevolent towards him and his group throughout their travels together.

"Perhaps I can rely on you in future endeavors, you've proven yourselves to be a well coordinated team."

A quick nod and a smile was all Peter needed to reply with. Although he didn't see himself or his team as anywhere close to Diablo's level, it was nice to know he had such a powerful individual's respect.

"Alright everyone, you heard the man. Grab a knife and start collecting some ears!

Diablo stood beside Rose as they watched the rest of their party members make their way towards the corpses of the monsters. While Rose's attention was on Diablo, he could've sworn he caught Momon glaring at him from behind his helmet. As soon as he had recognized the sensation, the dark warrior had already turned around to avert any suspicion.

Momon has tried to be pleasant with us this entire trip, yet I can't shake the feeling that he has a well concealed animosity towards Rose and myself… That, combined with all the inconsistencies of his back story, as well as his occasional bizarre questions, makes me incredibly suspicious of him…

Seeing as there was no concrete evidence to declare Momon an enemy, he decided to play it by ear for the time being. He had had a similar feeling towards the Paladin Captain Battuta when they first met, and his inaction almost led to Rem and Lumachina losing their lives. This time though, it was just himself and Rose at risk, and he currently didn't view Momon as a threat the two of them couldn't handle together.

"Rose, I know you won't be making use of one, but how about you start setting up the tents? It'll help improve your reputation amongst the others."

"But Di-

"Before you say it, I know you don't care what these people think of you. But for my sake, I need you to get along with the others, do you understand?"

Despite her indifference towards the rest of her party, Rose could never deny a direct request from her master. If she was willing to sacrifice her life to protect Diablo, she could definitely set up some measly tents. Although he shouldn't have expected much else, Diablo watched as his automaton companion pitched all of the group's tents in mere moments. Most of the others were too distracted with the monster corpses to notice her insane speed, save for Nabe, who watched with a frown, before turning to whisper something to Momon. Moments later, the others took notice of the fruits of Rose's brief labor as well.

"Woah, did you set up camp for all of us Rose? I didn't even see you do it, talk about efficiency huh?"

Nferia looked at the assembled tents with an impressed look on his face. He knew high level warriors could move fast during combat, but he never expected to see such speed employed in a mundane activity like this.

In response, Rose merely scoffed and returned to Diablo's side, caring not for the opinion of a mere human, even if he was paying them.

All we have to do is make it through the night without any incidents, surely that can't be too much to ask, right?

As he watched the sun begin to crest over the horizon, Diablo took the brief moment of serenity to steel himself for what laid ahead.

Once I'm done working with these people and have a little more money in my pocket, I can start properly searching for Rem and Shera… I know they have to be in this world as well, I can feel it…

He hadn't had much time to dwell on it, but the thought still remained: Just how many people were brought into this new world? The presence of Rose and Emile left many possibilities, with the only certainty being that there had to be more of his comrades somewhere out there. However, with that certainty came the possibility that more than just his comrades were brought here. If a being like a demon lord was summoned to this world where the average level was lower, it could be catastrophic. For the time being, such things were outside of his control, so he dedicated his focus towards his friends.

I can't let myself worry, lucky for me, they're all incredibly capable on their own… and if they truly are somewhere out there, it shouldn't be long before I hear word of their shenanigans…

One day at a time, it won't be long until this starts making sense…

I hope…

…

A few minutes have passed, and the sun has finally disappeared over the horizon. It was that brief period of time where the skyline was lit with beautiful shades of purple, pink, and red, in contrast to a black night sky.

"I have to say, twilight on the Katze Plains is quite a sight."

While everyone had taken notice of the stunning sky, it was only Momon and Nabe who had gone out of their way to admire it, as if it was their first time seeing it.

To think I'd get to marvel at such beauty, untouched by centuries of human greed… Blue Planet-san, I know you would love this place…

While the undercover Nazarick duo drank in the scenery, the other members of the party were getting ready to cook dinner. Dyne had already gathered some firewood, and all the components for their stew were assembled.

"It's not fine dining, but under a sky like this, it's the next best thing."

There was a chorus of agreement as everyone started to gather around the unlit fire.

"I'll save us some time,《Fire》."

Diablo had pointed his《Tonnerre Empereur》towards the teepee of firewood, and cast the most basic spell of the fire attribute. At his command, the wood lit up with a sudden blaze, before dying down to a perfectly sized camp fire.

"Th-thanks Diablo, but you know I could've done it myself, right?"

The resident magic caster of the Swords of Darkness, Ninya, meekly spoke up, as he wanted to have some use to the group.

"I would expect you to be able to employ such simple magic, but as the caster with a far greater MP to draw from, it only made sense for me to start the fire."

Diablo's logic made sense to the rest of the group, and Ninya quickly gave up trying to argue.

"Yeah, I guess you're right…"

I didn't mean to make him feel bad, it was just simple logistics! Gah, even when I try to be friendly with my demon lord persona, I wind up causing hurt feelings…

"Don't sweat it Ninya, what if we got attacked again and you needed all the MP you could have? Diablo's just thinking for our best interest."

Peter made sure to reassure his teammate, as even he had felt severely underutilized throughout the job so far.

"Alright, let's get the pot fixed over the fire, and this stew will be ready in no time!"

Before anyone could start setting up a stand to hold the pot, Diablo stepped forward once again.

"I know I spoke about managing our MP, but I think this spell will raise everyone's spirits. Change your position as my will demands, 《Adzet》!"

As Diablo pointed his《Tonnerre Empereur》at the pot, it became enveloped in a soft green light, before rising from the ground, and suspending itself over the fire.

"While I normally have to maintain focus when moving an object with this spell, keeping it suspended in one place is child's play."

All the other adventurers present let out a series of oohs and ahhs, circling around the floating pot trying to see if it was a trick of some kind.

"That's an incredibly useful ability of yours Diablo. I presume it's what you used to make Rose fly earlier, correct?"

"It is the same spell, yes."

Ainz had been observing in silence until now, as he had a genuine curiosity about the magic Diablo wielded, on a level deeper than the demon lord could currently understand.

A spell of this usefulness would've been common in Yggdrasil, yet no such spell of the same name existed. Telekinesis abilities were not uncommon, but nothing similar to this 《Adzet》spell…

While everyone marveled at the floating pot, and as the stew began to simmer, the gears of Ainz' mind continued to grind away.

The way things are revealing themselves, Diablo seems both foreign to this world, as well as Yggdrasil… He did say outright that he's "a demon lord from another world", but I had assumed it to be hyperbole. Yet, the existence of this reality opens up the possibility of their being other realities, possibly infinite. If there exists a power that could transport myself and Nazarick to this world, is it a leap in logic to say the same happened to Diablo and Rose? We're aware of their base in the Great Forest of Tob, which would mean it's their equivalent of a guild base…

Ainz had halted any further investigation of the temple-like building in the forest for the time being, as he didn't want to clue Diablo in on Nazarick's connection to himself in any way. Such an operation would eventually resume, as even if Ainz believes it to not be a Yggdrasil guild base, it could still hold treasures that would be of use to Nazarick.

As things currently stand, Diablo will be left alive. Despite his hindrances towards my plans, he could be the key to uncovering the mystery of our transportation to this world… and once he has outlived his usefulness, I can claim his base and possessions in the name of Ainz Ooal Gown…

I imagine it will be a battle spoken of for generations to come…

…

Deep within the heart of the Theocracy, the country's most important political and religious figures were gathered: The six cardinals, the heads of the judiciary, legislature, and executive branches, as well as the Theocracy's head of state, the Pontifex Maximus. It was not uncommon for the Supreme Executive Council to meet, but it was usually regarding matters of an international nature. Today, they had been called together to discuss not a foreign adversary, but a single individual.

All those present were sat at a round table, in a sacred room where they were regarded as equals, and their opinions would be treated as such. Even the Pontifex Maximus, the first to speak, was held to this rule.

"Has everyone been briefed with the Thousand League Astrologer's report on the Sunlight Scripture's latest mission?"

The leaders of the Theocracy all glanced down at the papers in front of them and nodded in affirmation. Next to speak was one of the six cardinals, Raymond Zarg Lauransan, the Cardinal of Earth and commander of the Six Scriptures.

"We've all read the briefing, your Holiness. The Sunlight Scripture was unsuccessful in their assassination of Gazef Stronoff due to the actions of an unknown interloper called Diablo. What doesn't make sense to me, is how that incompetent Nigun managed to lose when he possessed one of our sacred treasures! From my understanding, he and his entire scripture should be dead, yet they were spared by the being who defeated them so thoroughly!"

There was a collective murmur as everyone briefly exchanged their thoughts on the cardinal's comments. The Grand Marshal, Commander-in-Chief of the Theocracy's military, spoke up in regards to the cardinal's confusion.

"Raymond, you read the report yourself! The demi-human employed the ability to reflect magic, including the spell cast by「Dominion Authority」! Are you suggesting there was a course of action where Nigun could have come out victorious? This 'Diablo' character not only negated their spell casting, but also decimated all of their summoned angels with a single spell! Magic on a scale that shouldn't be possible for an individual, demi-human or otherwise!"

The room went silent as the Grand Marshal gave his rousing refutation of the cardinal's condemnation of the Sunlight Scripture's leader. Everyone realized they would have to move past the performance of the scripture, and instead focus on how to deal with this new threat going forward.

"Raymond, as the overseer of the Scriptures, do you see any of them as viable candidates for eliminating this self proclaimed 'demon lord'?"

Trying to turn the cardinal's attention away from the Grand Marshal's harsh words, the Pontifex offered a question regarding the capabilities of the Six Scriptures.

"Unfortunately, I don't see any of them besides the Black Scripture being effective, and they're currently indisposed with preparing for the resurrection of the Catastrophe Dragon Lord. They could be sent out in pursuit either when that situation resolves, or if Diablo acts against us and requires immediate attention, they can be reassigned."

No one present knew the capabilities of the Six Scriptures better than Raymond Zarg Lauransan, so they acquiesced to his superior knowledge on the subject.

"Now, another question to consider: Do we believe Diablo is related to the advent of the gods? Not only did he refer to himself as a 'Demon Lord from another world', but we're also within the expected one hundred year range. We should have been expecting someone like him to appear."

This interjection was presented by Berenice Nagua Santini, the Cardinal of Fire, as well as a firm believer in the prophecy of the appearance of powerful individuals every 100 years. In reply to her question was the Pontifex, who maintained a stoic face despite the gravity of the meeting.

"It would be the only logical explanation for the power he demonstrated against the Sunlight Scripture. If such is the case, we may have no choice but to employ the God-kin against him. For the time being, however, I advise we maintain neutrality. We can't ignore the fact that Diablo only acted in defense of Carne Village and Gazef Stronoff; he even spared the lives of Nigun and his Scripture. Also, it was mentioned within the report that he only cared to find his companions and 'return to his original world'. If such a statement is to be believed, we may not only be able to avoid a direct confrontation, but also possibly manipulate his actions in our interest. If it's feasible Raymond, could we have the Windflower Scripture gather reconnaissance on Diablo, and perhaps look into his missing 'comrades' as well? If his words are to be believed, we could gain massive leverage over him without having to fight, or if the situation requires, put him in the Theocracy's debt by helping locate these acquaintances of his."

There was a shared sentiment of agreement among the council, as everyone present understood how proactive the Theocracy needed to be in order to ensure the continued survival of humanity.

"I agree with the general idea, your Holiness. The Windflower Scripture is currently working to eliminate the traitor Clementine, former 9th seat of the Black Scripture. Assuming their target doesn't evade them in E-Rantel, we should be able to deploy them against Diablo within the week."

"That is excellent news, Raymond. While we're on the topic of the Scriptures, what is the current status of Nigun? I've been told he's shut himself off in his home after delivering his debrief when he returned to the Theocracy. He could hold more important information regarding Diablo that the Astrologer was unable to scry."

While Nigun Grid Lewin's failure at Carne Village had been mocked by the Earth Cardinal previously, most of the council held the view of the Grand Marshal; that Nigun was put in an impossible situation, and was lucky to escape with his life. Raymond hesitated for a moment before replying, showing a look of discomfort as he tried to verbalize his subordinate's report.

"You see, your Holiness… I was lucky to get what I could out of Nigun when I last saw him. While he was physically fine, it was clear that he had suffered a major psychological injury. In between bouts of lucidity, all he would do is mumble the same thing over and over again: 'Humanity is not ready'. As things currently stand, he may not be returning to his duties for the foreseeable future.

The other officials present were aware of Nigun's poor state after returning from Carne Village, but hearing the specifics of his condition gave everyone a grave understanding of what they may come up against.

"I understand, Raymond. I had always thought of Nigun as a resolute man, but to hear of his mental deterioration, it makes me worry for the future of the Theocracy. Regardless, we will persevere, as we have throughout our history. Unless anyone has other relevant information, I'd like to put this topic to a vote. With regard to Diablo, all those who agree with the deployment of the Windflower scripture pending the completion of their current task, say 'Yea'."

There was a unanimous series of "Yea's" from all those sitting around the table.

"All opposed, say nay."

This time there was a resounding silence, proving that everyone was in agreement.

"Excellent. Discussion regarding Diablo will be tabled for now until more intrigue is available. With our primary topic out of the way, we can move on to some lighter issues. Yvon, I believe you had something you wished to bring up?"

The Cardinal of Light, Yvon Jasna Delacroix, was a man with a skinny frame and narrow eyes, giving him a sinister look even in the presence of his peers. Despite his appearance though, he was rather straightforward, and cared greatly for his fellow cardinals.

"You are correct, your Holiness. I hope Raymond may be able to answer my inquiry, seeing as this relates to the Windflower scripture. Personally, I practice due diligence in staying up to date with the findings of our agents in the field, and among those findings was a peculiar figure in E-Rantel. Or, more accurately, rumors of said figure."

Raymond Zarg Lauransan was well aware of who he was referencing, yet hadn't seen it as relevant to the earlier conversation, thus never presenting the information.

"Are you speaking of the reports of an unknown faith healer in E-Rantel? For those of you who are uninformed, some of our operatives in the slums of E-Rantel have reported rumors of an angelic-looking woman dressed in white who performs healing miracles for those who can't afford treatment. More specifically, it would appear a new disease has been cropping up amongst the city's poorest residents, meaning it isn't yet on the radar of E-Rantel's government. As a matter of fact, one of the Windflower operatives was afflicted with the disease in question, and it required a surprisingly high-tier divine spell in order to cure it. It's currently pure speculation, but some of our divine casters believed it to be more similar to a curse than a traditional illness. Regardless, it means this woman, if she does exist, is capable of powerful divine magic, which could make her a useful asset for the Theocracy. While the Windflower are preoccupied with their hunt for Clementine, it may be worth sending in the Clearwater Scripture to not only aid in their current efforts, but also increase the manpower available in E-Rantel."

Yvon already had an understanding of most of what The Earth Cardinal was saying, yet he was intrigued to learn that this miracle worker appeared around the same time as this new disease. His first thought was that it could be a con of some kind, yet not only was the disease real, the woman in question was performing these miracles for free. Perhaps it was a coincidence, but it was peculiar enough to keep an eye on.

"Well then, it seems we already see eye to eye on this, Raymond. Perhaps this mysterious divine caster could serve as insurance against Diablo as well, assuming we can sway her to our cause. Seeing as all of this is under the jurisdiction of the scriptures, I'll leave the rest of it to you for the meantime."

Raymond gave a nod of affirmation, and then turned his attention to the Pontifex.

"Your Holiness, as Yvon stated, I can handle this matter internally, so unless someone has further input, I say we table the topic and take a quick recess."

Given a few brief moments of silence, the Pontifex took that as his cue to speak.

"Very well, seeing as we have no further speakers, I put forth a vote to table the topic, and as the Cardinal requested, a short break as well."

Just as things were in the first vote, it was unanimous.

As the Theocracy's finest ended their discussion on the two other-worldly visitors, they felt confident that they had a handle on their current situation. Little did they know, the appearance of the demon lord from another world had left them unaware of key knowledge; knowledge of the true existential threat to their legacy as humanity's guardian. Deprived of his initial opportunity to test his powers in the field, Ainz Ooal Gown was not on the radar of the Slane Theocracy.

Thus, for the time being, things proceeded as normal within the Theocracy; their government unaware of the true threat that had been unleashed upon the world: The Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick, and all those who called it home.

…