Under the morning sunlight, the Roble Holy Kingdom awoke to a momentous day as it was the start of the event with the Sorcerer Kingdom. At noon the Sorcerer King and his entourage would arrive at a large column stage in the center of one of the large squares in the capital. Even now final preparations were being made as the last of the guests from all around the Holy Kingdom arrived.
An hour before the appointed hour, an ornate carriage departed from the Royal Palace, flanked by a display Paladins carrying several banners, with Remedios taking the lead as the head of the King and Queen's security. Indeed inside was Holy Queen Calca Bessarez and Holy King Sōsuke Aizen. They wore similarly colored white and blue garments, with Calca's being a flowing dress, and Aizen's a similar to a suit with a long-tailed coat over their shoulders, and both with golden mantles and upon their heads silver crowns.
"Are you nervous?" Calca asked in curiosity, holding Aizen's hand.
"I can't say I am. But I can tell that the same does not go for yourself." Aizen remarked with his usual charming smile.
"Of course, it is that clear for you. It's difficult to not be nervous after all that I have learned and heard of the Sorcerer King... Even if I shouldn't say it, even if it goes against my personal principles, he certainly is a monster, correct? What he has done, what other word is there for it, if not monster?" She asked in uncertainty.
"Hoh? A strange topic to be bringing up at this time." The Shinigami pointed out, goading Calca to further elaborate upon her concerns.
"I know, but it's difficult to not let these thoughts fill my mind after all that's happened. I am more than excited for the prospect of growing our relationship with them and opening our nation to the world, but what kind of individual are we going to meet? I can no longer be as naive as I once was."
"These are natural concerns to have. Indeed, given his actions to call him a monster isn't wrong and we can also say that given his nature as a undead, he is a literal monster. But as you said, we need to think of the future of this nation and the Sorcerer Kingdom is a strong nation, despite how new it is. They are willing to offer a hand to us, and it would be imprudent to push it away. However, you know this, don't you?" Aizen said with a conforting smile.
"..."
Calca gazed upon Aizen, letting out a weak sigh. He could read her like a book, as he usually did. Indeed, she had already gone through this entire thought process on her own, coming to the exact same decision Aizen just voiced. Yes, it was for the best of her people. In the past Calca wouldn't have been one to easily judge others without seeing them for herself, not even the Sorcerer King. But after having met and been with Aizen she had grown, and to know this put her at ease.
Eventually the carriage and Paladins arrived at the square, following a set path, since everywhere else was crowded with people wanting to see the arrival of the envoy from the Sorcerer Kingdom and guards keeping order. The royal duo emerged from the carriage, waving and smiling at their subjects, and taking part in a brief ceremony, until finally they walked up to the stage. There they were accompanied by five high-ranking Paladins, Remedios, and the Quatro Espada Juno Ulmeyda.
After a brief pause, a [Gate] opened opposite to them and the area fell silent before whispers, curiosity, and apprehension filled the air. The being that first appeared was the Sorcerer King's personal butler, Sebas Tian. He was then flanked by ten Hanzo type NPCs as he gave a deep, respectful bow to the royal duo, before he and they stepped aside, forming a line an either side as they prepared for the arrival of others.
Then came Albedo, wearing finer garments than both of the Holy Kingdom's monarchs combined, as she immediately became the center of attention. Her grace and beauty bewitched all those present, and barely paid any mind to the scepter in her hands whose quality was beyond compare. Calca herslef immediately felt the pressure from the Sorcerer Kingdom's Prime Minister. Indeed, before her was a powerful being and the sharpest politician she had ever seen, excepting Aizen himself of course.
Albedo too, took a step to the side opposite to Sebas and then turned back. From the portal emerged the Pleiades, minus Narberal who still maintained her cover as Nabe in E-Rantel. Finally, flanked by the maids and backed by several ninja-type NPCs like the Hanzos, came a figure adorned in rings, vestments of orange with golden lining adorning it, a sash wrapped around his waist, and jewelry was embroidered into the cloth at the chest level. At last, the Sorcerer King, Ainz Ooal Gown had come.
None dare utter a word, as it was clear to all, whether they wielded any kind of power or not, political or martial, that this being was unlike those accompanying him. It was clear by the reverence that his attendants had for him, it all made sense now. For Calca she was very grateful to have Aizen and Remedios near her for moral support, because this Ainz felt greater than evem the Prime Minister, making it clear why he alone was King.
As the envoys from the Sorcerer Kingdom gathered and approached the representatives of the Holy Kingdom, Ainz did his best to remain composed. With time he got used to playing his role as King, but he had to admit that the given situation with a big multi-day event where he would need to be always "on" in terms of his act, wasn't something he was looking forward to.
That said, the fact that he would have more time to get Aizen alone so that they could talk was a great incentive. Especially with Albedo there to cover for him if need be.
"Welcome, Sorcerer King Ainz Ooal Gown. I am Holy Queen Calca Bessarez, and this is my husband the Holy King Sōsuke Aizen. It is a pleasure to have you in our nation." Calca said, breaking the silence with a sweet, yet kind tone.
"Greetings, Holy Queen. I am the Sorcerer King Ainz Ooal Gown, and this is my Prime Minister, Albedo. It is an honor to be welcomed in your nation." Ainz regally said.
"Welcome to our nation. We hope that this will be but the first step towards a fruitful and equally beneficial relationship. We have already arranged transport to the Royal Palace, so if you would please follow us." Aizen smoothly said.
"That is very kind of you. Please lead the way." Albedo added in a honey-like voice that only added to her bewitching looks for onlookers who all but forgot about Ainz's presence with her nearby.
It was such that with her beauty and presence, combined with their Holy Queen and King, the Pleiades, and the Homunculus Maids that the crowd remained awed. Aizen was inwardly amused by Albedo unknowingly charming some of the simple humans with her otherworldly beauty, voice, and grace cutting through the apprehensions of some as a light applause began.
As the initial theatrics concluded, the large group began to exit from the stage, did a few more waves and smiles to the crowd and began to move towards the carriages that awaited them, when suddenly a voice rang out through the crowd.
"We don't need the likes of you here!" A man cried out, as a rock was thrown from the crowd and in the direction of Ainz.
'"...!"'
The reaction was immediate from both sides as the Paladins scattered forward to assist the guards in case this was the start of something greater and to intercept the rock, while Remedios and Juno gathered around Calca and Aizen. On Nazarick's side Sebas and the Pleiades gathered around Albedo and Ainz, with the Overseer standing firmly to the side Supreme Being's side.
The ninja-type NPCs vanished, with one remaining in view as it dashed and intercepted the rock, right as some of the others appeared on the rooftops, while others were simply out of sight. Tensions quickly grew, before a pair of guards pushed out of the crowd and into the ground the man behind the throw, doing this in view of all.
"...!"
Albedo went to speak in the direction of the royal duo, when Ainz raised a hand to silence her. Quickly the Prime Minister went silent, with Ainz walking past the NPCs surrounding him and approached the Hanzo, his hand outstretched.
"Give it to me."
The Hanzo immediately complied, and Ainz eyed it before turning his attention to the man and the two guards holding him down, and then raised his hand with the rock in the air.
"People of the Holy Kingdom, hear me. It is not my place to judge any of you for not wanting myself or my people here. We are outsiders and beyond what you would consider trustworthy, but we stand here now because you already opened your hands to some of my own before. So I ask you to do the same for me. Let this stone, be just another of those that set a foundation for our friendship... [Create Item]."
Upon his command, the small stone in Ainz's hand glowed and then shifted into a small figurine of a sword-wielding knight, before the Overlord turned his focus to Calca.
"I understand that this event just started, but I must ask a favor of you, Holy Queen. I ask you to let this man go, for his crime is one of ignorance."
Now all eyes turned to the Holy Queen, taken by surprise by everything that was going on. Especially when she was very hopeful that nothing like this would happen and the people would be amiable. Not that it mattered now, since it had happened and she was being called upon by the Sorcerer King to make a decision. Walking past the shield that was Remedios and Juno, with Aizen accompanying her, Calca looked down at the man, then at Ainz and the figurine he had created.
"Very well. As you said, this is but the start of the event and we shouldn't let an incident such as this to stain it. Guards, let that man go."
Upon the Queen's command, the guards released the man, who dashed back into the crowd and vanished, this being enough to slowly defuse the tension. However, Aizen wasn't going to let this end so soon, smoothly walking up to the Overlord and eyeing the figurine in his hand.
"May I?" Aizen asked.
"Of course." Ainz replied, handing it to the Shinigami.
"Perfectly done, as expected of one as capable as yourself, Sorcerer King. Everyone, I ask you to not forget what has happened here, as you look upon this figurine. Something shaped by the Sorcerer Kingdom, with its material origin in the Roble Holy Kingdom. This is but a simple example of what may come from our nations working together. All of you here have seen the good that they have done for us so far, now is the time to strengthen that bond and see not only what else they can do for us, but what we can do for them. I ask you, to not forget this, and to once more place your trust in us, for we only wish for your well being." Aizen charismatically announced.
Aizen's words were enough to bring back to more festive moods as claps and cheers came from some portions of the crowd, and with another wave, the group dispersed into the carriages and departed, all according to their original plan.
As per the agreed upon schedule, Ainz's arrival would have played out as it did before the rock was thrown, with Ainz and his escort then going to the carriages to travel to the Royal Palace. Some time after that an official speech would be given the people. Here Demiurge and Albedo had injected the idea of getting someone to cause some commotion, perhaps throw a rock at Ainz, so that the Overlord could get a chance to show how magnanimous he was to these people.
Ainz seeing how keen the NPCs were on the idea, decided to share it with Aizen and the two worked it out so that both sides could benefit from it. Ainz gets a showing of his goodwill, and from there Aizen gets some from the people for himself and Calca. They agreed that the decision of the man's fate would then fall to Calca. For this a man was compelled to throw a rock at Ainz through magical influence, and it was expected that he would be pushed down and flee once free. Naturally there was the chance that he could be killed, but both sides could still make it work for their overall intentions.
Being the highest ranking on each side, Calca, Aizen, Ainz and Albedo shared the same carriage, the royal duo sitting on one side, while the Sorcerer Kingdom's rulers sat opposite to them, things being mostly silent, until Ainz spoke up.
"Now that we are alone, I'd like take this opportunity to apologize for any inconvenience I might have caused." Ainz humbly said as he stroked his bony chin with his left-hand.
"Uhm... My apologies, but I don't follow. What just happened was, I would say, an inconvenience to everyone involved." Calca said, confused by his apology.
"Even so, I cannot help but believe that the only cause for that situation was my presence. The same goes for all the hard work that was put into making it so that our assistance was accepted by your nation. My apology comes from my understanding as a ruler, that such things would have been strenuous for a nation just recovering from a demon and demi-human incursion." Ainz matter-of-factly explained.
"Thank you. That is very kind of you, but please, there is no need for apologies. The sentiment is appreciated, but as you said, as a ruler, there are 'strenuous' tasks we must go through."
"Umu. Your Majesty Aizen, you have kept the figurine I created correct?" The Overlord asked.
"Correct. Do you want it back?"
"Not at all. If anything, while simple it is only fitting that you keep it, as you said it is a symbol of what we will hopefully be building for the future together."
"My sentiments exactly." Aizen said, handing the figurine to Calca.
"I must admit this is quite different from the magic I had heard you were capable of." The Holy Queen mused, examining the figurine.
"Such is the power of Ainz-sama. He is capable of a many great deal of things." Albedo spoke up with a soft smile.
"I can only hope that we get to see more of it in the upcoming days. Under better conditions of course." Calca mused.
"Perhaps so. Likewise we have heard much about His Majesty Aizen and his Espada, so we are also very curious to see what they can do." Albedo smirked whilst speaking with an amicable tone.
"Umu." Ainz nodded in agreement.
"Yes, I am confident that this visit will be most fulfilling for both sides." Aizen smirked, relaxing in his seat.
Eventually the carriages arrived at the Royal Palace, and another round of introductions followed as Ainz and his entourage met Prince Caspond Bessarez, Prime Minister Amelia Bedelia Aigner, High Priestess Kelart Custodio, and representatives from the southern half of the country and others of importance.
After this a small banquet was held, since after all most of those involved had to eat, but since Ainz did not and was unable to, musical entertainment and dancers were provided to give the Overlord something to amuse himself with in between conversations. Once done those gathered moved to a stage not that far from the Royal Palace where in turn Calca, Aizen, Ainz, and Albedo gave speeches to the gathered crowd about the upcoming event and the benefits it should come.
The rest of the day involved more meeting of people, conversations, brief visits of a few other locations of interest in the capital, but overall the first day ended up being very standard for such an event. and as such the introduction to what was to come. As night fell the day's events drew to a close as all involved went their separate ways.
Ainz's entourage went to a seaside abode that was specifically chosen for them, now under heavy watch from those of Nazarick and at a greater distance from them a deployment of Paladins and even some Espada. For Ainz this isolated three-story manor was a win. If the NPCs had their way he would have stayed at their embassy, which he didn't want since he knew that a place like that wouldn't let him relax. Even if he couldn't physically sleep, he at least wanted to be somewhere quiet to stay.
Finding a moment to himself, Ainz went to the lounge on the 2nd-floor, walking through the room until he opened the windowed doors that led to the balcony. Allowing him to see the stretch of beach that merged with the sea, Ainz's jaw almost dropped as his emotion limiter fell on him. It was a beautiful sight as his eyes fell upon a clean sea, and was something that no longer existed in his old world. The effect enhanced by all the stars and moonlight reflected upon it. Truly, this was worth having had to go against the NPCs' desires, genuinely making him feel like he could relax in this place.
"Ainz-sama, perhaps it is best if you went inside. It is safer." Albedo spoke up, also walking onto the balcony.
"Umu. I will be back inside in due time. I'm just admiring the view. Truly, they did well in picking this location for us." Ainz remarked, trying to enjoy as much of this break as possible.
"I... Agreed. It is fairly pleasant."
"How do you think this first day went? Do you think it went well?" The Overlord asked, turning to Albedo seeing that she was accompanied by several Hanzo.
"I believe so, Ainz-sama. So far everyone seems content with what we have been giving them."
In reality, Albedo wasn't all that happy with the lecherous glances she was getting from people. It absolutely disgusted her that insects would even look in her direction like that, but she wouldn't bother her beloved Ainz with such things.
"Umu. Although it seems it will take some time for the right situation to present itself for me to speak with Aizen alone."
"If you wish... I can try to bring about said situation." Albedo reluctantly offered.
"No need. This is just the first day, so we should let things develop organically." Ainz casually replied.
"As you wish, Ainz-sama."
"I guess it is best that I go inside then. We should get the most out of this night to rest. I will be in my bedroom, in case anything happens."
"Of course."
Watching Ainz walk away, Albedo pushed down the desire to share said bedroom with him, amd focused on the fact that she clearly still had much to learn when it came to politics and social interactions. She had never spent so much time next to Ainz with so many interactions, and it was so clear how easily he carried himself and interacted with those people.
She would have never even considered the "apology" that Ainz had given to Aizen and Calca. She felt it beneath him, but understood that it was such a simple way to lighten the mood and show a welcoming side to the Queen. Truly, she still had much to learn to be able to match Ainz and Demiurge in such scenarios. Even more so when she had been trusted to be Prime Minister and to accompany Ainz.
The rest of the evening was without incident as the sun rose once more, marking the second day of the event. While the Roble Holy Kingdom was calm and serene, the Slane Theocracy felt the growing pressure from the Sorcerer Kingdom's advance. Despite the Theocracy's forces being among the strongest and most well-prepared when dealing with undead, the pure difference in power of Sorcerer Kingdom's army led to a practically unchallenged advance.
Many cities had already fallen, with their defenders crushed or forced to surrender. Presently, Cocytus resided in a camp a few miles away from the latest city to be invaded by his forces, with this city being of particular interest since their sources informed them that this was one of the Theocracy's main hubs of knowledge and lore outside of the capital itself.
This explained why the enemy army had yet to surrender, even after the city's defenses had been literally crushed, but Cocytus wasn't bothered. The forces he had allocated to this siege were far from spent and he still had plenty of hands to play. Among the forces protecting the city was the Holocaust Scripture, headed by the newly appointed Captain Schoen. The former Vice-Captain was promoted an hour ago when their Captain died on the frontlines.
For Schoen this was the worst-case scenario. Not only was it clear that their forces didn't stand a chance, but their magical means to escape the city and move important items to another location weren't working properly due to the Sorcerer Kingdom's anti-teleportation measures. Forcing this process to be done through secret tunnels at a much slower rate.
Currently, he was hurriedly making his way through the city's streets, on his way to a massive stone tower at the center of the city, where all their important artifacts and tomes resided. Preferably he would've stayed there, but once his captain died and with all their other losses, there was a need for leadership at the fore. So he abandoned his role of assisting the lore keepers to fight.
And fight he did, having now used up most of his mana, magic items, and scrolls. When it became clear that the undead would just keep coming, Schoen and the ten that were left of his unit began to retreat. The sound of a small building crumbling ahead of them got the group's attention, as a Death Knight and several former Theocracy soldiers came into view. Looking amongst each other, no one was keen on engaging that group, even if there was no other way, so it fell on Schoen to push them forward.
"Cover me. I will handle this shortly." Schoen curtly announced.
"Very well." One of the soldiers solemnly replied.
Of these ten, eight engaged the incoming undead, while two others flanked Schoen as he pulled from his mantle one of his nation's well kept secrets; a red-colored healing potion. Opening the container, he went to down its contents when he heard something approaching from behind, pausing he turned and saw another hoard of zombies, with an Elder Lich floating above them.
"You, human. Give that to me." The Lich hissed, clearly motioning to the potion.
"We'll protect you, sir. Please take your time." One of his two guarding said, readying for a fight.
Taking into account that there was still some distance between themselves and the hoard, Schoen knew he had enough time to take the potion to recover himself, but the Lich and its magical abilities were an issue. Not to mention his eight men now fighting the Death Knight weren't in the shape to take it down on their own. So he sighed, placed the top back on the potion, and pocketed it away. He still had things to do before he could take a break.
"Don't be foolish, we're advancing. Now follow me... [Fire Arrow]!"
Firing the weak spell in the direction of the Lich to try to annoy or confuse it, Schoen and his two guards ran in the Death Knight's direction and the five that were now fighting it, the others having been killed and then killed again by their comrades. While his guards instructed for the others to retreat, Schoen pulled out his last scroll, unfurling it as he invoked the spell within.
"[Grand Fireball]!"
As the scroll burned away, a massive fiery orb shot out, rocketing towards the Death Knight, and engulfing it in an explosion. This created an opening for him and his seven remaining men to escape. While this was a small victory, the damage was already done, with the Lich having seen the red-colored healing potion. It knew this was something their Supreme Overlord Ainz Ooal Gown was very interested in, and was quick to send this information straight back to Cocytus.
The Floor Guardian had been sitting at a large wooden table, gathered with his advisors over a map of the area as they discussed the ongoing battle. A Lich then came in to inform him of their latest findings; that the one known as Schoen had been identified and held red healing potion. This getting an immediate reaction from everyone present.
Cocytus in particular sighed a large gust of cold, as he began thinking of what this could mean. After all, some of the people that had surrendered in battles before this one, had mentioned that here laid a great repository of knowledge and lore. Could this be one of those examples? He felt very pleased at the prospect of delivering another boon to his master, but concerned of what the fact that only one had been seen.
That was when another Elder Lich entered the room and caught everyone's eye since it had in its hands a red healing potion. Again, Cocytus exhaled another gust of cold, but this time he did not remain silent.
"Report."
"This was found on the body of an enemy official... We had been getting reports of other bodies found with broken containers that seemed to have held potions, the contents lost at the moment of death. So far this is the only one we have found intact of this kind." The Lich pointedly informed.
The air in the room became almost visibly colder, as the task of explaining to Ainz what might have been a great loss had fallen upon Cocytus. Surely, a failure like this would be a stain on all he had accomplished thus far.
"What. Is. Schoen's. Rank?" Cocytus asked, wanting to make sure his information was up to date.
"From what we've learned, he is one of the remaining high-ranking military officials in this area." The Frost Virgin standing behind the Guardian informed.
"Meaning that if he dies it will be a great blow for morale." One of Cocytus' insectoid advisers absentmindedly mused.
"Don't be foolish." Another tersely remarked.
"...!"
A simple glare from Cocytus put an end to the exchange and any other sound that dared manifest in the chamber. His mood at taken a turn at the thought that he would once again commit a grave failure not of his master's design, so now wasn't the time for what-ifs. He could understand why the situation had come to this. Things were going well, meaning that when the enemy force didn't surrender, the undead did as they would, but in their deadly efficiency something of great worth might have been lost.
"Send. Out. The. General. Tell. Her. That. Schoen. And. Whoever. Is. With. Him. Are. To. Be. Taken. Alive. And. Unspoiled. Failure. Means. Answering. To. Ainz-sama. Himself!" Cocytus commanded.
"As you wish." The Frost Virgin acknowledged with a bow, then leaving the chamber.
On his end Schoen was now down to two soldiers, but he had managed to get a moment to drink his potion, so he had recovered greatly from what he went through. Arriving at a devastated city-square, the trio saw beyond the rubble that used to be a statue. The city hall being used by the civilians to gather, looked untouched and thankfully it held a secret passage to the underground tunnels that they could use to better move around.
Quickly moving up to the double doors, Schoen went to open them but found them locked. Holding in his frustration he quickly though of what to do next, when a small port in the door opened and a woman's face could barely be seen behind it.
"We have surrendered. Are you here to surrender as well?" She timidly asked.
"No. I'm here..." Schoen was quick to answer, but she was quicker to interrupt.
"Then do so or leave. We have no desire to fight."
"I have no issue with that. Please, just let us in."
"Why? Are you being followed? Is the enemy nearby!?" The woman asked, in a clearly panicked state.
"No one is following us. We simply want some shelter, before..." Schoen tried to say, but again was interrupted.
"Before you surrender? You should. For all our sakes."
Letting out a frustrated sigh, Schoen took a few steps back, eyeing his companions as he pondered forcing the door open, when the large form of a Frost Dragon flew overhead. The beast unleashed its breath upon the area, forcing the trio up against the door. Before it flew away, from its back a figure began to descend with obsidian-colored, bat-like wings. Looking up, Schoen and the others clearly saw a female demonic being.
She was tall with red skin, a curvaceous form, dark horns that emerged from her black hair and twisted to the side, while her eyes glowed intensely. Her form was wrapped in black cloth that almost moved with a mind of its own. For the the Holocaust Scripture's new captain, his senses immediately told him that this was a threat beyond any he had faced in this battle; an Outlier. Just like those beings that had forced him and his nation out of the Elf Country.
Its unfurled wings then wrapped around her shoulders like a cloak as the figure's feet touched the ground. Schoen then steeled his resolve as he called out to the new arrival.
"W-Who are you?"
"I am called Evil Lord Lust, but you can simply address me as Lust. I am a General of this army~" The demon seductively announced.
"What an honor..."
The words barely exited the man's mouth, but he knew that it was over. There was no way out. Lust, or whatever this demon was, represented a foe beyond himself or even the full might this city once had. He wasn't going to outrun or out maneuver her, and behind him were people who had surrendered. Personally, he had never planned on doing so himself, but it pained him greatly to see his people die, despite all the disgust and hate he felt for the enemy, they did seem to know mercy.
"You two surrender." Schoen told his soldiers, as he began to walk towards the demon.
"Sir?" They gasped.
"I suspect I know what you want. It is gone. I already drank it." He continued, approaching Lust.
"I assumed, given how healthy you look. One should not push themselves to the point of breaking, so I commend you for that~. That said, I'm certain that in your brain is the information we need, so why not surrender and be of use to us? Save us the time of having to find whatever 'lore keepers' still remain in this city, and haven't escaped through the tunnels." Lust remarked with a charming smile.
"...!"
Schoen then immediately stopped in his tracks. He had been foolish, of course if his own people were surrendering, including those of high rank, that the tunnels might now be known to the enemy. Meaning that the chances of getting anything of worth out were even lower than he had considered.
"I will not surrender. Call me foolish or whatever, but I will not surrender." Schoen said, in a low but determined tone.
"Oh~?"
"I'll not surrender. Nor will I throw the lives of my people away, and I most certainly will not make the lives of my enemy easier." Schoen announced, pulling a wand from his pouch.
"[Stop. Now, Drop it]."
Lust's voice rang out with a power and presence to it, washing over Schoen as he found himself releasing the wand, causing it to fall upon the ground. Just like Demiurge, Evil Lord Lust had the [Command Mantra] ability, which against individuals that were weaker than level-40 like Schoen, and everyone else she had met thus far, was highly effective. No matter what his wishes were, it would be easily bent to her command.
"This must be the 'warrior spirit' Cocytus-sama talks about. Such a shame to crush it, but sadly I'm not here to play around. Now, tell me what I want to hear, or shall I assist you~?" She asked, with a bewitching smile.
"[Wall of S…!" Schoen tried to cast, but was too slow in his incantation.
"[Stop]."
Schoen stopped as instructed, but the hold the demon had on him was brief, so that he felt capable of continuing shortly after, but at this point he saw no way to put up any kind of defiance, or hinder the enemy. Not when he was faced with someone who could control him like she could. Resigning himself, he then relented as he lowered his head in shame.
"I... I surrender."
"Hm~! A wise decision. I welcome you, your men, and everyone within that building to the Sorcerer Kingdom~!" Lust announced with a victorious, and slightly aroused tone.
With Schoen's surrender came the end of the Holocaust Scripture. While there were others of the unit in other areas of the city they had become inconsequential. This in turn would lead to the city's fall, crumbling away their morale, and making Lust's job even easier.
As this transpired, someone else had been watching the battle unfold from a distance. Under the cover of [Perfect Unknowable], the First Follower of Surshana Rufus, made his way to the area to keep an eye on events and personally take note of the Sorcerer Kingdom's methods. He wouldn't say he was impressed, as the result of the battle was clear to him from the start.
It was clear to those of the higher-ranking members of the Theocracy's leadership as well. It's why the Ashendust Scripture had been put to work, since so far the Sorcerer Kingdom had been unmoved by any kind of offense or defense thrown at it. After all, even should this nation fall, it wasn't like Rufus was of the line of thought that the Theocracy was doomed.
Having been a follower of one of the beings that founded this nation, he knew that it would live on despite this war. It most likely would need to do so in a different way. Of course, he wasn't pleased that the enemy now had its claws in one of his nation's great repositories with its many secrets. Personally, he would have made it so that all knowledge was kept close to the Theocracy's center, but alas that decision at the time did not fall to him.
He in part understood the need to have knowledge centers spread out given the vast territory the Theocracy covered. Despite the loss, Rufus could see that if things kept on as they were, it wasn't impossible for the work of the Ashendust Scripture to be concluded in time. All that was needed was to find the right means to delay and slow down the enemy. With a gesture and a command, the Overlord opened a [Gate] and departed the area to go deliver his report.
Once the city was taken, Lust's influence forced Schoen to speak further on the red-colored healing potions. Word that was quickly sent back to Nazarick and Ainz. This new piece of information gave Ainz a much needed boost in energy from a day that was comprised of going around and talking to people. It made him recall all those times he had to meet with clients back in his old world.
Those were memories he'd much rather forget, and he wished he could leave and go see those potions, but he knew that his role as King wouldn't allow him. Not only that, but Ainz's curiosity about Aizen was enough to keep him on-task for the duration of the events. After all, he needed a chance to speak with the Shinigami alone.
Night eventually came and a great number of people gathered in an opera house in the Holy Kingdom's capital to finish the day with a pleasant communal event. Currently most were located in a large lounge area, and Ainz along with Sebas who had been escorting him to free up Albedo to speak with others, had been able to pull himself away from a long and winded talk with Marquis Bodipo from the Kingdom's southern half.
As an experienced salaryman, Ainz knew an opportunist when he saw one, and that was exactly what the Marquis was. So he had to put in enough effort to satiate the man's curiosity without giving too much away, before being able to distance himself from the Marquis. A process that wore on his patience, despite his suppressed emotions.
Moving through the crowd, Ainz looked past a small group of people and saw Aizen, who was finishing up a talk with a high-ranking merchant, with Juno by his side. Seeing his chance, Ainz made his way to the group and stopped to Aizen's and the merchant's side, who visibly shrank as another King joined the conversation.
"Could you excuse us?" Ainz asked the man.
"O-Of course. My apologies. Your Majesty... Your Majesty." The merchant said with a bow towards both monarchs, promptly leaving
"Perhaps we could speak. Preferably alone." Ainz suggested, in a low tone so that no one around them would hear.
"I would prefer to stay by Aizen-sama's side." Juno remarked.
"I am of a similar mind. I don't want to impose, but I would prefer to stay by your side, Ainz-sama." Sebas added.
"There shouldn't be any issues with that arrangement." Aizen said.
"Umu. Then lead the way. You know this place better than I." The Overlord promptly agreed.
Having come to an agreement the group began to walk away, in the direction of stairs that led to the floor above them. This turn of events wasn't missed by Albedo who was also in the room. While Sebas was with Ainz she also wanted to be there, so that after she managed to quickly end the conversation with a noble couple that was next to her, Albedo prepared to follow after the group when Amelia crossed her path.
"Excuse me, but I have something to attend to." Albedo said, preparing to go around Amelia, but only for the human to again get in the way.
"I know~ There should be nothing wrong with them talking, especially when they aren't alone. Since our respective monarchs are speaking, why don't us Prime Ministers take this time to talk?" Amelia suggested in a friendly manner.
Looking past Amelia and to the stairs, Albedo saw that the group now vanishing from sight, meaning that she would need to move faster to get to them and perhaps get some unwanted attention. While she wanted to be with Ainz, Albedo also knew that social graces and image were important, meaning that this annoying insect in front of her had succeeded in keeping her in this place.
"It seems like I have no option. What do you wish to discuss?" Albedo asked, doing her best to disguise her annoyance.
"Let's move to the side first, so we aren't stuck in the middle of this crowd."
Before Albedo could reply, Amelia began to move in the direction of a window, with the Overseer relenting and following along. Amelia picking up a fresh glass of champagne along the way, until they settled near a window with a view to the outside gardens.
"Well? What do you wish to discuss?" Albedo asked.
"I'm simply curious, is all. It's not everyday that one gets to speak with the Prime Minister of the Sorcerer Kingdom... With the Guardian Overseer of the Great Tomb of Nazarick." Amelia replied, playfully mumbling the last part.
"Perhaps you are trying to get me to disclose more information than what you have already. That you so underhandedly acquired."
"We all have our sources, so I wouldn't call it underhanded. The means used to collect it in the first place, is something else all together and unrelated to our situation, I would say."
"I assumed that would be the case. Honestly, it fits this entire situation. Then if I may ask a question, what is it like? Even as the daughter of a Great Merchant, I imagine that you had never imagined meeting someone like Aizen." Albedo coyly asked.
"You're not wrong. There is only so much someone like me can expect from life, even with my background. So to have met someone like that... is certainly a one-of-a-kind happening." Amelia replied, taking a sip from her glass.
"Especially to have stayed next to him for so long, even with the clear difference in power between you and his other servants. Along with the fact that he now clearly has his attention set on another."
"Oh? I see at what you are getting at. Not a subtle play on your part, by the way. I have no such concerns, after all... He knows exactly what I'm worth~ But I'll drink to that."
With a playfully sarcastic tone, Amelia took another sip from her glass and again Albedo had to hold back her dislike for this woman who dared mocking her. However, this served for Albedo herself to see just how composed and collected Amelia was, since it felt like such a strange thing for a mere human to stand as an equal to someone who even her dear Ainz-sama was weary of.
Truly, it seemed like Amelia had her place assured, making any attempt at persuasion pointless. Meaning all she could do now was suffer through whatever else Amelia had to say. Although she had to admit, despite her being an insect when compared to herself, Albedo was mildly amused by this human Amelia. Perhaps she could derive a modicum of enjoyment from conversation.
Meanwhile, Ainz and Aizen arrived at one of the private booths overseeing the main stage. Juno pulled closed the curtain near the edge to give them privacy, while Aizen and Ainz sat next to each other, with their respective bodyguards behind them.
"Thank you for being able to speak with me on such short notice." Ainz amiably remarked.
"Of course. But let us try to be brief. People will eventually notice us missing. That said, I have heard that you progress in the Theocracy has been substantial." Aizen coolly said.
"Umu. Things have been going well We've already made some substantial gains from our efforts, and your information. But that's not why I wanted to speak to you today. I am curious about your Espada. How it is that they came to be, like they are. Since from what I know they are fairly unique existences." The Overlord explained, motioning towards Juno.
"Hoh? Quite the bold thing to ask of me, without promising anything in return." Aizen commented with an amused smile.
"And I am willing to listen to whatever you may want in return. It is only fair." Ainz replied in a business-like manner as he stroked his bony chin with his left-hand.
"In that case, I need assurances. We both understand what open hostility will mean for the other, that's why we are now like this. Though I imagine that both of us understand that this won't last long. Something or someone will eventually try break the balance. A break in this balance will mean losses for both sides, and I imagine that is not in your plans." Aizen said, with his usual calm demeanor.
Ainz couldn't disagree with Aizen's logic. Personally he didn't want conflict. In all honesty he wanted peace and quiet, to know that his friends' legacy was left, while he had the chance to explore this world. For the Overlord, that was what was most important; to protect all that was so precious to him, and to maintain those memories.
Yet he knew it wouldn't be easy. Not counting Aizen, who also didn't seem to want open hostility, there were other possible threats and even within Nazarick there were some who didn't like the Shinigami and that might lead to problems.
"I cannot make my people change their minds about you or yours..." Ainz pointed out.
"Then, I have nothing to tell you. It is as simple as that."
"...But that said, I can certainly work on it. I have no desire to see Nazarick harmed, even in the slightest. On that you have my word." The Supreme Being declared, his eyes shining crimson with intensity.
"One can only hope that your confidence matches the reality of the situation. Still, given what I know of your Nazarick and its inhabitants, I think that this declaration of yours shows me enough to justify what I am about to tell you."
"Umu. I am glad, and you have my thanks. I am most intrigued by how it is that you acquired the Espada."
"It is a process I devised, involving taking an individual who is alive and fusing them with a dead individual, resulting in the enhancement of the original. It is both a physical and spiritual process, so that it is not uncommon for the sentiments of the deceased to affect the individual, to a limited extent. Take Rylen for example. He was once a normal human man. One with great potential by the standards of this world. I fused him with the preserved remains of an Overlord like yourself. Though the process was much more complicated of course, using a 'dead' undead, but it resulted in what you saw during his match with Shalltear." Aizen calmly explained.
"...!"
Fascinating! Absolutely fascinating! Ainz wasn't certain of what he was expecting Aizen to say, but this did not disappoint! To know that the Shinigami was also able to fuse bodies together and that this led to the Espada. It was amazing and frightening, since this seemed to hint at the fact that Rylen went from what would be considered impressive to the people of this world, to the level where he could challenge Shalltear.
Naturally, one of the thoughts that came to mind was the possibility of this process freeing Ainz from his current form. That Aizen might give him a fleshy form, with the increased benefit of making him stronger, and most likely able to transform like Rylen did!
That said, this wasn't going to be a simple matter to broach. He was lucky in only bringing Sebas along for this conversation. If Albedo had accompanied him here, her reaction might definitely have been a problem. Ainz also didn't know if Aizen would even take this arrangement since it could imply greatly boosting the power of a possible enemy.
"So, you're capable of even something like that?" Ainz asked, still thinking of how to continue the situation.
"Correct."
"What about the reverse? Could a functioning undead be fused with another being?"
"..."
Here there was a pause. Ainz intently looked at the Shinigami via a sideways glance, like a businessman who had just thrown out a big opportunity at another. Aizen returned the sideways glance towards the Overlord, not only taking note of this opportunity, but also understanding the subtext within it.
Sebas too was able to pick up on something more than what Ainz just said, as he felt a kind of tension briefly weigh down his heart. Juno on her end didn't react, having decided to only focus on the tone of the room, in case things went badly. Although even she had to admit that the question was a surprise.
"That is not outside my abilities, and given how much I have refined this process. If for example this undead was to fuse with a once living being, they might be able to take on the features of said being as their standard appearance." Aizen explained.
"I imagine this is a complex ritual." Ainz mused, his eyes going to the curtain that obscured their view to the stage, but from where a music could still be heard.
"It has its nuances. But can be done safely with enough preparation and a well-preserved body."
Ainz wondered if Aizen had understood his intentions. Most likely the Shinigami had, given how perceptive he was, but the fact that it needed preparations and a body made it sound like something that needed to be very well defined. Which made sense given how powerful an ability this was. Again, Ainz pondered on what the NPCs would say.
More than likely they wouldn't be happy, yet the benefits felt worthy of the headache that would be explaining his decision. If he had understood things correctly, the boost in power he might receive might make him on par with Rubedo in terms of power, or even go above her. Surely the chance to wield the means to preserve what his friends had made justified his decision? With this in mind, he decided that if he was already wet, he might as well jump in as he made his decision...
"Umu. That doesn't surprise me and it seems all worth the trouble... With that in mind, would you be able to perform this procedure on myself?" Ainz plainly asked.
"...!"
The declaration caught both Juno and Sebas by surprise. The Espada while not paying exact attention to the words being said, caught enough of what Ainz stated to be caught completely off-guard. The Guardian saw his instinct and the weight on his heart become fully realized, with his master's stunning and choking declarations.
"A-Ainz-sama, perhaps... Perhaps we could take a break... People might be looking for us."
These were the words that escaped Sebas' mouth, spoken purely out of concern for Ainz's wellbeing, his feelings had again been stronger than his station and decorum. That was why he had spoken in such an awkward fashion, because not only was he thinking of the wellbeing of the last of the Supreme Beings, but he also had a responsibility to all of Nazarick.
"Sebas, calm yourself, I understand your concern, but no harm will come from us talking." Ainz said, trying to help the butler regain his composure.
"Ahem! Of course. My apologies, I forgot my place."
"To answer your question, yes I could do the same to you, given that I have time to prepare and acquire a body." Aizen informed with a faint smile.
"Actually, if this process involves one body fusing with another, it only makes sense for the subject to be able to choose the other body." Ainz calmly argued.
While Ainz didn't know what the process was exactly he imagined that he would be very vulnerable during, and that perhaps the other body could be tampered in some way. So he wanted the power to choose who he would fuse with. Not only that, but he already had someone in mind. After all, Nazarick had taken possession of the former Elf King's body. While Decem had been weaker than him or the guardians, his sturdiness and power in the context of this world could not be denied.
"Hm. Fair enough. An isolated location would be best for this, like the Katze Plains for example. If I am fusing you with someone of your choosing, like the recently deceased Elf King, the resulting discharge of energy will be considerable." Aizen explained.
"Umu. I'll leave those preparations to you. I can provide the body as it is preserved and myself. However, as I'm sure you're aware, it would be a poor move to try and do something to me when this happens. I know you won't take this as a threat, since it is already a possibility to you. I merely feel it prudent to point out that if anything were to happen to me, it would spell doom for our efforts and everyone else in these lands."
It was rare to see Ainz speak so seriously, even more so when the Overlord was doing this with little intervention from his emotion suppression, because for him all that had been said, were pure facts. Ainz was aware that things would turn bad if he was to be gone, as is he already held back many of the NPCs when it came to interacting with outsiders. So he could imagine what would happen if not only he wasn't present, but if he died. Things would crumble away and Nazarick would at worst implode upon itself.
"We wouldn't be having this conversation if my plan was for open hostilities, so you can be at ease knowing that." The Shinigami said with that same charming, unknowable smile.
"Umu. This was a good talk. I am glad we had this opportunity to speak so openly, but as Sebas suggested perhaps we should take a break. Before anyone comes looking for us." The Sorcerer King remarked, rising to his feet as an image of a flustered Albedo crossed his mind's eye.
"Agreed. We can discuss any further particulars at the end of the event." Aizen suggested, doing the same.
Concluding their talk, Juno opened the curtains back up and the group left, going back to the floor below. Aizen and Juno went down first and a moment later Ainz and Sebas, so that it wouldn't become too obvious that they had been together just in case someone was paying attention to the stairs.
The rest of the event went on without issues, and despite Albedo's attempts at getting Ainz to tell her what happened, the Overlord didn't tell her anything until they returned to the manor that had been given to them for the duration of the event. When they arrived there, Ainz took Albedo and Sebas to his office, and as he stood by the window, the Overlord explained the entire conversation to Albedo. Needless to say, he expected to see her expression to twist in the numerous ways it did as he explained everything.
"Isn't this a great risk, Ainz-sama? We don't know what this 'fusion' he speaks of entails. He might use it as a chance to harm you, to kill you! Sebas, how did you allow this to happen!?" Albedo exclaimed, the emotion clear in her tone, especially as she turned her attention to the butler.
"..." Sebas went to speak, when Ainz interjected.
"Do not blame Sebas for something he had no power over. This is a decision I made of my own accord, knowing the risks that came with it."
"But then why, Ainz-sama?! If this man does anything to you, what will become of us?!"
Seeing Albedo's growing concern and desperation, Ainz felt his emotion suppression starting to act, while he stepped towards her and placed a hand on her head. The act took Albedo by surprise as her wings lightly fluttered. Ainz knew that in part her concern came from what he had done to her by changing her settings, along with the fear of the last Supreme Being leaving them like the rest had done in a sense.
"I am sorry for causing you, all of you, this much duress. What I do, in part I do for selfish reasons, but I also do it knowing that there is a great gain to take from it. That is why I am doing it, to be able to truly protect you all." Ainz explained in a heartfelt tone.
"There is no need for that, Ainz-sama. Please, let us, your servants, do such things." She argued, as he again patted her head and then lowered his hand to the side.
"No. Just like with Shalltear this is something I must do, for the legacy I bear, for what we have now and for what we will have in the future. This is something that will happen, but we have time until it does, so I ask you and all of you, to help me, so that there is little chance that Aizen can do something when it does."
Albedo did her best to regain her composure, having just gone through rage for Aizen, fear for Ainz, and love from the head pat. The Overseer didn't feel comfortable with this plan, or the fact that Ainz was going to put himself through something that sounded so dangerous and that he was planning on changing his form.
It felt wrong, felt like it could lead to the fall of Nazarick and personally felt like her beloved Momonga was going to change once again. This turmoil of emotion swirled and mixed inside the NPC, until some part of her latched onto the head pat and the confidence placed on her by the Supreme Being, by her beloved.
"As you say, Ainz-sama. As you say. I will do my best to make sure that man doesn't get his way. We all will." She resolutely said.
"Thank you."
While uneasy evening came to a close at this point for those in the Roble Holy Kingdom, however in the Theocracy Rufus' plan to stall the Sorcerer Kingdom was already being discussed and put into place. As per the undead's suggestion, there was no time to slow their efforts down. The Ashendust Scripture needed all the help and resources it could get so that when the time came things would be ready to save people of importance of the Theocracy from destruction.
He also suggested that due to how the Sorcerer Kingdom clearly wanted to make use of their infrastructure once it was taken, they should take advantage of this, striking when the enemy wanted to preserve the area to restrict them. For this, Rufus suggested laying a heavy resistance in the great city of Ushopolis, due to its location in a more forested and hilled filled area that routed anyone going or coming from it, and the enemy would eventually need to make that passage to truly reach the heart of the Theocracy.
This resistance would take the form of the largest army they could muster without weakening the defenses already in place or those used for the capital. Some elements of the Black Scripture would be used but not all, since these too were precious resources. And finally the special seat of the Black Scripture herself.
The last suggestion naturally caused some concern as it involved moving their best piece, but Rufus waved those concerns away by saying that he would also be in the area away from the city to oversee things. So it was that the Theocracy began to prepare their second greatest attempt to halt the Sorcerer Kingdom's advance. Second only to the defenses placed in the capital, which were also being worked on for when the time came. Come what may, the legacy of their forebears would survive.