While celebrations filled Dragon Kingdom's capital city, the situation in Asodosia was slightly different. Even if no beastmen remained in the area, people were still needed to keep survivors safe, while others were needed to keep watch on the perimeters, to search through the city to make sure no one was left behind, and to clear up some bodies. Still, things were quiet. To the point that those in charge of the forces from the Empire and Theocracy saw fit to take a break and let their subordinates, along with most of the forces of the Kingdom, do such work.
Out of the two leaders, only Picard had not fallen back to his private tent. Even if he didn't put all of his attention on to the war effort, his ego and pride would never fully allow him to let his troops to do all of the work. As such, he was now in the Empire's war tent, overseeing his men as they made some menial decisions. Ones that he knew would not get him great honors, but ones he knew he couldn't risk them failing here.
As Picard sipped some tea, one of his youngest subordinates entered the tent, taking a bow to his superiors he quickly went to report to their commander, who eyed the boy as he finished his cup.
"What is it?" Picard asked, putting the cup aside so he could focus on him.
"I have a report" The young knight said, trying to organize several papers he held in his hands as his attention fully focused on them.
The boy was unlucky in this. Had Picard still been distracted by the tea, perhaps he would have ignored his manners, but now that would not be the case. Picard rose from his seat, forcing the boy to back away from him. An action that made enough noise to get the attention of those that were around them.
"Stand up straight and call me sir!" Picard demanded.
"Apologies, sir!" The boy quickly said, straightening his posture.
"Good. Now, your report."
"Right. The Kingdom's forces are on schedule with the removal and disposal of corpses." He began in a louder, and more formal tone.
"I've noticed. I can smell the fires from here. What else?"
"The combined efforts of our forces and those of the Theocracy, are being successful in building and repairing shelters for survivors. They have so far been able to maintain their well-being."
"Hmph. It is to be expected. Even if we have to work alongside the likes of fanatics." Picard remarked with a tone of disgust.
"A-And…" The young knight began, quickly falling into silence.
"And what?" Picard insisted.
"Commander Iris and some of her men, went into the nearby forest. T-They spoke of movement, they think it might be the enemy."
Silence filled the tent, as everyone could see the cracks in Picard's professional façade. His right hand curled into a fist as he considered personally punishing the boy for saying such a fallacy. No matter what they were led to believe, only he had the title of "Commander", as he was in charge of this operation.
"Remember this well, boy. I am the commander here! One more remark like that, and I'll have you work in clearing out the corpses. I could care less what your station is. You are a man in my army, and you will show me respect, understood!?"
"Y-Yes sir!"
"Good. Now lead me to where Iris went."
Led by the boy, Picard and five of his men, were led to an area at the edge of the forest, where Iris and ten of her men were just finishing up piling up some goblin and wolf-type beastmen corpses. There were fifteen bodies in total, with only three being beastmen. His approach was quickly noticed by Iris, as she turned to look at him, using one hand to order her men to burn the bodies, to prevent the spread of disease, but also to prevent the appearance of undead.
This process was repeated for human and beastman corpses alike, due to the nature of the war that they were fighting. While some had protested the burning of loved one's bodies instead of being brought home for burial, the sad truth was that there simply wasn't any resources to spare for the transport of bodies. Not to mention that the war had caused so much death, that these measures needed to be taken to curtail the natural spawning of undead.
"Commander." Iris coolly greeted.
"I was told you decided to act without consulting me." Picard hissed, his displeasure evident.
"That is correct. We managed to find some stragglers who seemed to be in the process of making their way back to the city." Iris remarked, causing Picard to raise an eyebrow at her.
"That..."
He stopped himself, as he was about to berate her for insubordination. He was letting his tired state get the better of him. After all, he had spent most of his day traveling, commanding his forces, and having to put with Iris. He had already snapped at the boy. That alone was a mistake on his part. He had an image to keep, but not this one. Now, he was about to let his disdain for someone like Iris, to distract from the real issue; the stragglers. Taking a deep calming breath, he continued to speak.
"That... is troublesome. Did you see any others?"
"No, but that doesn't mean there aren't anymore." She stoically replied.
Picard looked around him, and to the edge of the forest was a large area full of tall grasses and bushes, which possibly could hide approaching enemies. No, that was foolish to think. These were beasts after all. They were in retreat, and only the most stubborn or stupid of them would come back.
"Men, I want some of our forces diverted to searching the edge of the forest. Boy, you will communicate this to the other forces here."
"But sir, we already searched…" One of his knights began, but was quickly silenced.
"Then you will check again. And if need be, you will search again after that as well. Am I understood?" Picard sternly commanded.
"Yes, sir!" His men replied, quickly dispersing.
"What about you lot?" Picard asked, looking at the men that had accompanied Iris.
"They will join in the effort of course." She promptly said, causing them to vanish back into the tree-line.
"I should also join them…" Iris added, turning to depart when Picard stopped her.
"You will not. Remember, that you still answer to me." Picard said, with a somewhat superior tone.
"Then what am I to do? While I understand why you would want me to stay back and help coordinate our forces in case of an attack, I do better work on the front lines. It would also give us a better idea of what the enemy might be." Iris calmly explained.
"Even so, I want you here. I need a calm mind here to make certain decisions, even if it is you."
"As you wish, Commander."
The information quickly went through the camps, including to the Theocracy forces. The one tasked to deliver this information to their leader Noah, was a rather high-ranking soldier with the given name, Ikalgro. With him was a small orphan girl about 12 years old. Arriving at the entrance of the tent he was greeted by two guards. Both men exchanged looks with Ikalgro, and the little girl, before opening the way for him to enter and closing it behind him.
The inside of the tent was actually quite large. There was a bed, a desk with books and papers on it, two chairs, a small shrine of the Six Great Gods, and a table where a bowl of stew on it. The scent of cooked meat, potatoes, and vegetables filled the tent. Noah was preparing to eat his meal, and wore garments that were not all that different from a priest's attire when the soldier walked in. His attention went to Ikalgro, giving him a quick glance before focusing on the girl, taking in her disheveled form, before he got up from his seat and spoke.
"Who is this?" Noah asked, approaching the new arrivals.
"Lena. She is one of the survivors of the city... We, couldn't find her parents." Ikalgro replied with a tone of regret.
"I see. Lena, you seem to be hungry. Why not go and eat some of that stew?"
As he said this, Noah dropped to one knee, giving the girl a warm smile as he motioned to the food. Lena was understandably nervous, her eyes shifting between the ground and the bowl. However, her stomach kept calling out for sustenance and eventually she relented and spoke.
"C-Can I?" She asked, looking at the floor.
"Of course. Go ahead." Noah said in a kindly tone, getting back to his feet as he let the girl pass and take his dinner.
Having given the girl something to do, Noah placed a hand on Ikalgro's shoulder and walked him closer to the entrance of the tent and spoke in a low and formal tone.
"Ikalgro, that is your name correct?"
"Y-Yes, sir." He replied, surprised that his superior knew his name.
"You have done a good thing bringing her here. Such a poor soul she is. She and others, but we cannot save them all…" Noah said, visibly distraught.
"... But what matters is that we are making progress. You are doing good work, and I'll make sure my reports reflect as much." He added calmly.
"T-Thank you, sir. I was also informed that some beastmen and goblins were killed not too far from here." Ikalgro said, causing Noah to take on a more serious and annoyed posture.
"And? How many?"
"I believe there were fifteen of them."
"Hm. Stragglers. Nothing more, nothing less. I would imagine we are being called upon to help look for more?"
"Yes, sir."
"What a waste of men. Very well. Find one of my captains, give him the info, and how many men he sees fit to use. Anything else?"
"No, sir."
"Dismissed then." Noah commanded, his attention turning to the girl.
Approaching the table, he took a seat next to the girl, taking a moment to simply watch her as she made her way through the meal. She took almost no breaks to drink or just take her breath, which brought a kind of hopeful smile to his face.
"Lena, how are you feeling? Better?"
"Y-Yes, thank you." She replied, pulling herself away from the bowl.
"Don't mention it..."
Lena watched as the man paused mid-sentence, and began to lean forwards. So much so that she felt the need to lean back in her seat before he ultimately stopped his advance. He honestly scared her. His beautifully shaped, sparkly blue eyes were completely focused on her, and made her feel uncomfortable, even when she looked away.
"What do you know of religion, Lena?" He suddenly asked in an almost mechanical manner.
"I-I don't..."
Her reply was cut short, when his hand slammed onto the table and he rose to his feet, his face twitching ever so slightly.
"Have you never been taught!? Did your parents never tell you of the gods!?" He growled, causing the girl to shiver in place at the mention of her parents.
"They did!" Lena spat back, causing his expression to soften somewhat.
"And?"
"T-There are f-four..." She began, just for him to beat his hand into the table again.
This time his expression, turned to one of pure rage, as he walked to her side, and then to the back of her seat. Lena could only shiver in place, even when his hands fell on her shoulders and began to apply pressure.
"Wrong, wrong! There are six. Six Great Gods, you filthy heretic!" Noah roared, his grip tightening to the point of causing her visible pain.
"Y-You're hurting me." Lena whimpered, causing him to sigh.
"It cannot be helped. After all, your parents knew no better, uncultured as they were. But you, my dear Lena are still young. Still salvageable. And while your parents have probably been killed and their bodies are now being burnt clean, your purification will call for a less painful but great sacrifice." Noah informed, not releasing his grip, his voice taking a distant and pained tone.
"L-Let me g-go." She frightfully pleaded.
"Not yet. I will first purge your body of its heretic decadency. Then, yes, you will be free to go back into the world, as a new woman..."
"...!"
The following morning in the capital, the celebrations had mostly come to a halt, due to those taking part in it using the morning as a rest period to prepare for when things restart a new throughout the day.
In the small room where Labrax and Emma had decided to spend their evening, the elf was already on her feet putting her clothes on. She had no need to bathe as she had used a magical item that allowed her to clean herself. Luckily, she also kept on her ring item that prevented pregnancy. On the other hand, Labrax was still on the now broken bed, his naked body half covered in sheets. Still, even after the little rest he had gotten during the night, his sweating and labored breathing showed just how much his old body had gone through.
"You're leaving already?" Labrax casually asked, managing to sit up, even if his body creaked with every motion.
"Oh? Is there a reason why I shouldn't?" Emma asked as she finished getting dressed.
"Well... If that item of yours still works, I would also like to freshen up. And you could also help an old man up."
Emma looked at him and threw the small water-drop shaped crystal at him, followed by slowly approaching and giving him a somewhat mischievous and mocking smirk as she spoke.
"And is there a reason you should have problems moving~?"
"Heh. You tell me, your highness. I did tell you I'm not as young as I used to be." Labrax replied, before using the item on himself.
"You sell yourself short, old man. You did quite well, considering." The elf mused as she extended a hand towards him.
"You honor me. Hehehe." He laughed sarcastically, taking it so he could rise to his feet.
Labrax wasn't fully stable even when back on his feet. He used a nearby wall to hold himself up as Emma had stopped providing him any assistance. Not that he was surprised. After all, he knew that this was just a one night thing, with the both of them killing some stress from it.
"In the future, stop with the 'highness' remarks." Emma instructed, donning her blindfold.
"Noted." Labrax dryly replied.
With that Emma turned her back to him as she reached for the doorknob. Grabbing on to and turning it, she then suddenly stopped. Her head turning to the side as if she was looking at him through the cloth.
"You understand that this remains between us, correct?"
"I can promise you that much." Labrax replied with a serious tone.
"Good. I'll see you out there, Labrax."
"Emma."
As soon as the door closed, he fell back onto the bed on his hindquarters, his legs giving out under the aftershock of the previous night. What a pain it was to him, to think he would now have to deal with something as pathetic as this. It didn't help that Emma was as greedy and demanding as they came. Truly he was too old for this.
As she walked away, Emma too was afflicted with a sudden weakness in her legs as she stumbled to the side into a wall. Her left hand went to her head, the effects of the drink fresher than she had hoped, despite it being expected for someone who almost never got drunk. Her legs on the other hand were a surprise. She had not expected him to have left that big of an impact on her. The thought was almost amusing in a sense. It wasn't all that unpleasant either, so perhaps further down the line she could get him to repeat that night...
In the case of Elim and Leinas, their awakening was much smoother and more heartfelt. They had ended their night in Elim's cabin, where they had enjoyed themselves. Leinas woke up in Elim's arms, her head resting on his chest. Much to her surprise, when she looked up at him he was already awake, looking much better than their first night together all that time ago.
Pushing herself upwards, Leinas sat in bed, briefly looking about seeing clothes that were scattered all around the room, before placing all her attention on Elim, fixing her hair as she did so.
"Morning." Elim said, taking her left hand with his right.
"Morning." Leinas greeted, with the same warm tone.
Elim tried to sit up next to her, but his body groaned under the attempt, naturally still being under the effect of having laid with someone of her caliber. Something Leinas quickly noticed as she tilted her head slightly to the side, showing a slight sign of concern as he failed to sit up.
"How are you feeling?"
"Hahaha... Much better than the first night we spend together. That's for sure." Elim laughed, earning him a relieved sigh and smile from Leinas.
"Well, it is to be expected. I did go easy on you this time."
"Heh... Could have fooled me." He remarked with a smirk, finally getting back up.
At this Leinas pouted, pulling her hand away as she turned from him and to the wall next to the bed. She was annoyed at him for not being clear as to what shape his body really was in, and at him not letting her know in how much bad shape she had left him in this time.
"Sorry. I was trying to joke around. Really, I'm fine, Leinas. Perhaps a bit bruised and sore, but nothing I can't walk off." Elim informed in a more reassuring tone, and then placing his hands on her shoulders in a comforting manner.
"G-Good. That's good to know."
"What's this? Are you worried~?" He asked with a somewhat teasing tone.
"Given how you were the first time around, I-I was. Especially when I don't have any potions at hand." Leinas remarked in concern, to which Elim responded by wrapping his arms around her.
"That aside... There is something I would like to ask you..." He began in a solemn tone, just for her to softly speak over him.
"I know. And I do." Leinas answered, wrapping her right hand around his.
"Y-You do?" Elim asked with some surprise, to which Leinas replied with only a slight head-nod.
"Well, lucky me... And so do I…" He added warmly, leading her to cover part of her face with her hair as she blushed.
"Y-You what?" Leinas asked in a tone that was almost a mumble.
"I love you."
In a nearby area of the camp, Roos was just waking up from her night with Grimmjow. While her head throbbed with a hangover, and her body fatigued from being with the duplicate, she was still able to look around and take the area in. Much to her shock she was in some small tent that probably was used for supply storage. Further scanning the area, she noted that she was naked, and quickly used a small nearby blanket to hide most of her body.
"Finally. You woke up." Grimmjow casually remarked as he appeared in the tent's entrance.
"G-Grimmjow!?" She gasped, going red at the cheeks and pushing herself away.
"Wha...?" The duplicate began, but Roos was quick to interrupt him.
"W-What did you do to me?" She asked with an accusatory tone.
Grimmjow stopped, his head tilting to the side with an expression that was a mix of annoyance and some amusement. Ignoring what she just accused him of, he threw a large bag towards her feet.
"W-What is this?"
"Heh! These are your new clothes. Your old ones got lost somewhere around here." He nonchalantly replied, further embarrassing her.
"You...!" She began, but Grimmjow's patience was at an end, and spoke over her.
"I did nothing! You were the one that came up to me, drunk off your ass and offering to spend the night with me. Now put your clothes on. I'm sure you have better things to do."
Roos felt her heart beating in her chest like a war-drum. He didn't seem to be lying, but had she really drunk so much, that she lost all restraint? No, that shouldn't be possible. She knew better than to let that happen. However, her body and her hazy memories that now came floating up to the surface told a different story. It would seem she had let her attraction to the likes of this mercenary Grimmjow get the better of her.
"Ahem... D-Did anyone see us?" She asked with trepidation.
"No." Grimmjow replied his hands going into his pockets.
"Good... And you? A-Are you planning on bragging?"
Roos expected a positive answer to this, or some hints at deception. After all, in her mind she was sure that men like Grimmjow enjoyed boasting about their exploits. Especially if they were as depraved as she knew she could be when she dropped her restraints.
"Keh! Not at all. It wouldn't be the best thing for you, right?" He matter-of-factly stated, catching her off guard with his forthright sincerity.
"R-Right... Thank you..."
"Yeah, don't mention it. Now, get ready. We'll leave after that."
"Leave? Where to?" Roos asked, unsure of what he was planning.
"Eh. Wherever you like. I just need to make sure you're in good shape, and that no one's around when we split ways." Grimmjow replied in a neutral tone, looking around just outside the tent's entrance, and then back to her.
"I see... Thank you..." Roos awkwardly and gratefully acknowledged with a head-bow.
"Ah, just get on with it..."
Later on in the morning, Naz'da'gar and Draudillon had long ago left the Espada's lair and were now back in the queen's palace. The Cero Espada was in control of his armor, and the queen now in her child form. Not long after arriving, she had called upon Prime Minister Falko Kemuel Jantzi, and his secretary Elizabeth, to meet with them in the palace, in the same room Nazz and Draudillon had discussed their current arrangement. When they arrived, she looked to "Nazz", and then spoke with a regal and mature bearing that was totally at odds with her child-like appearance.
"I was informed that you are already acquainted with of both of them now, correct?" She asked Nazz as she motioned to the new arrivals.
"Hm. That's right."
"Good. That saves time. Now then, as for why I called you two here, I want to show him the vault." She firmly announced, surprising both of her subjects.
"Please reconsider, Your Majesty." Falko earnestly beseeched his queen.
"With all due respect Your Majesty, he is a stranger. Even if he is here to help us, we don't know how he will react when he sees it." Elizabeth calmly pointed out.
"You both are aware as well as I, that even if we win, we have taken significant enough blows that the Kingdom might very well collapse from all the damage and debt this war caused." Draudillon pointedly stated, looking at Falko with a steely gaze.
"Indeed. It is as you say, Your Majesty..." Falko calmly replied.
Presently, the Dragon Kingdom was in a dire financial strain. Due to the constant attacks by the invading beastmen, they needed to increase military spending in order to counter the threat. This meant not only building up their own forces, but also a heavy reliance on foreign aid and support.
This was in the form of paying for supplies and materials, as well as additional adventurers, workers, mercenaries like the Espada, and paying ransom to the Baharuth Empire and Slane Theocracy for military forces. However, what many did not know, was that the situation was so grim, that the country faced total economic collapse as soon as the war ended, whether or not it was in victory or defeat.
"... It is quite possible that the vault might save us, but to let him see it might be dangerous." Falko coldly added, not bothering to conceal his suspicions, even in Nazz's presence.
"He is to be the father of my heir. I trust him enough to allow him to see and to open the vault." She said with a tone of disappointment and quiet anger towards her prime minister's demeanor and behavior.
"Your Majesty if I may, there is no guarantee that he will able to do it, no matter how strong he is..." Elizabeth calmly remarked.
While they were seemingly absorbed in their conversation, ignoring the very presence of their topic, Nazz himself was unsure as to what was going on. Draudillon hadn't told him anything about what they were doing, and simply telling him that she wished to discuss something with him and those present. Still, hearing talks of a "vault", and the fact that it might save them after the war, gave him some ideas as to what it might be. Even if he didn't want to admit that Elizabeth might be right in her assessment.
"What is this vault?" He finally asked calmly.
"Well..." Elizabeth began to reply, just for the queen to raise her hand to silence her.
"I would prefer to explain it when we all arrive there. Now, do you both agree that it is for the best to show him? After all, when the Espada put an end to this war, we will still need to find a way for our Kingdom to survive."
"If they win, Your Majesty. They had won only a single battle, and we still don't know what else might lie ahead." Falko skeptically pointed out.
"We will win. That much I can assure you. As I always have." Nazz resolutely stated.
"Well?" Draudillon insisted, now in a tone of thinning patience.
"Very well, Your Majesty." He said in resignation, with Elizabeth simply nodding.
Knowing what had to be done, Elizabeth opened the secret entrance that existed in the room and led the group down several flights of old, dust filled stairs. They continued a great distance, taking several turns at different points. After what seemed to be five minutes, Nazz began to understand, and feel the magic that filled these areas.
He soon realized that these passages were not like the others. They were made to disorientate thieves or other unwelcomed individuals that might try to infiltrate it. As things were, he could guess that if someone took enough wrong turns, they might die before reaching anywhere of significance.
At other points, they came across gargoyles placed along the walls. All of them gave off similar feelings to the statues he had seen in the fortified buildings where meetings took place in the capital. Finally, after what seemed to be 10 minutes, they arrived in a larger chamber. In it several gargoyles lined the walls, with magical lamps that lit up as soon as they arrived. Upon the opposite side from the entrance were two massive stone doors, with a humanoid golem standing guard before them.
Here Draudillon took the lead, standing before the construct so it could take in her presence. Having done so it stepped aside, yet the doors did not open. That was because the golem only made sure that whoever stood before it, like Draudillon Oriculus, possessed [Wild Magic]. The doors themselves could only be pushed open by someone who could manipulate said magic.
This was why Elizabeth could never open them, as her line had never shown the necessary characteristics to use that power.
Placing her hands on the doors, Draudillon pushed. It didn't matter if she was in her child form. She just had to let the energy flow, like when she changed her form. After reaching a certain level of energy output, pushing them was as easy as opening any other. As soon as the doors opened however, Nazz felt as if he was hit by a gust of hot air. He could sense the presence of [Wild Magic] plain as day, and to the extent that he could easily guess it belonged to the Brightness Dragon Lord.
The group walked past the double doors, finding themselves in a massive artificially made cave, where the highest point of the ceiling was over 20 meters in height. However, this paled in comparison to what was present half-way in. It was a glistening metallic wall, polished to an almost mirror sheen, with the mural of a dragon decorating it. It was massive in proportions, with the mouth placed near the floor where one would normally open it.
It was imposing to normal people, but even more so to those sensitive to [Wild Magic]. Even if for someone like Nazz it felt more like a bad joke than an actual threat, the wall emanated a certain sense of menace. A warning to any that would dare come close to try to open it. Right away he knew that this wall was the entrance to the "vault".
Not even taking note of those around him, Nazz walked straight up to the massive depiction of the dragon's head, where he began to look around. He looked at the sections where the cave ended, and the vault began, he looked for anything in particular in the depiction of the dragon, doing his best to find any signs of how much of a risk opening might be. Yet he saw nothing, much to his quiet frustration. Meaning, all that was left was to make sure he had understood Draudillon's intentions correctly as he spoke, his tone almost a hiss.
"You wish me to open it?"
"Y-Yes."
He said nothing else. Nazz's hand reached out to the wall, touching the mural's head, followed by letting his energy flow ever so carefully, and to the best of his ability. It had been some time since he had been this cautious. It was really quite ridiculous. All his power, and yet he felt like a child, trying not to mess up.
"Be careful." Elizabeth cautiously said.
For the moment, he was only testing it, trying his best to understand what he was dealing with. That was until it spoke, the wall spoke. Of course, it was only heard by those who could wield [Wild Magic] and were of dragonblood. Thus, the voice was only recognized by Nazz, Elizabeth, and Draudillon.
"To those whom would dare try to open my vault.~ Be wary of what you wish for. After all, any Dragon Lord worth his salt, should know better than to try to open a, Ith Tokeq."
While Draudillon and Elizabeth were a bit thrown off by the origin of the voice, Nazz knew that it was just a message from the vault's creator. It more than enough to make him stop what he was doing and to warily step away from it.
"It is best that we give up." Nazz plainly said, flexing his hand to make sure control over his armored-avatar had not been tampered with.
"Ith Tokeq. That is ancient dragonic correct?" Elizabeth asked in curiosity.
"Correct. In the common tongue, this is called a, 'Lord's Vault'. It was used by some Dragon Lords to keep their treasures safe. It can't be opened safely by anyone that is not the owner, or someone who's skilled enough." Nazz stoically informed.
"What about you? Can't you open it?" Draudillon asked in a hopeful tone, causing the Espada to sigh in defeat, his ego taking a blow.
"No. Even if I do have the power, I'm not at a level of skill or knowledge where I can try to open it. Simply put, it's akin to magical lock-picking."
Draudillon and Falko both exchanged concerned looks, while Elizabeth wasn't such an easy read. Even if she understood the meaning of his words, she was still curious about this vault itself. Her family line had only ever been told not try to open it, and not what would happen if one failed to do so.
"What would happen if you were to try, and then fail to open it?" She calmly asked.
"Who knows. There is the possibility that nothing might happen, or the vault teleports to another location, or in the worst-case scenario, reduces the palace to a smoldering crater." Nazz replied, crossing his arms in thought and frustration.
The trio went pale, their eyes going to the wall as they imagined what might come from it, no matter how fascinating it happened to be.
"Still, can't I open it? After all, I am related to the Brightness Dragon Lord, and I can use [Wild Magic]." The queen asked in barely restrained desperation.
"I'm sorry, but you don't have enough power to open it. Not to mention, you might be different enough from him that the vault wouldn't recognize you. Knowing how eccentric he can be, that's probably the case."
"Is there no one else? I understand that you lack the ability to open it safely, but is there no one that might be able to do it?" Falko asked in ever thinning hope.
Naturally, Nazz had already considered that, and his mind went through any Dragon Lords that might still be active, and from the little he knew of the dragons still active in the world. Only the Platinum Dragon Lord immediately came to mind, yet he didn't know if he truly had the skill and knowledge necessary to get through the hurdles to open one of these vaults. It shamed him to admit it to himself, but he couldn't do it because he focused on the more combative and destructive aspects of [Wild Magic], outside of a few exceptions.
His mind then momentarily went to the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord. For all he knew, he was still active somewhere, since he was said to be old when Naz'da'gar was young, and knew no match when it came to magical knowledge, and had only a few equals in the usage of [Wild Magic]. If there was anyone that could open it, then the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord was the most promising of possibilities. The Deep Darkness Dragon Lord could've been a viable candidate as well, if not for his reclusive ways and his problematic temperament.
Nazz also considered the Brightness Dragon Lord himself, but much like the Elder Coffin and Deep Darkness Dragon Lords, finding him was close to impossible. His mind even went to Aizen, and as much as it seemed hard to admit, no matter how much power Aizen had, and how similar it was to [Wild Magic], he knew nothing of these vaults and how they worked. Simply researching it would take a great deal of time. More time than the Kingdom had at this rate.
"No one comes to mind. At least, no one we could easily find."
Silence filled the room as Falko and Draudillon lowered their heads in defeat, while Elizabeth analytically stared at the vault's entrance, stunned by the power it held. This was everything but what Draudillon wanted to ear. To know that it would never be opened by someone that was not the Brightness Dragon Lord. Someone she had not seen in decades, and had no idea when he would be back, if ever.
"I'm sorry." Nazz said contritely, putting a hand on Draudillon's shoulder.
"N-No... I guess it is to be expected." She mumbled in dejection, pulling away from Nazz's grip with her head held low as she walked back to the cave's entrance.
"Your Majesty, please wait. Even if we cannot use the vault, there may be other ways..." Falko encouragingly said, going after her.
"It seems the time has come for us to return to our usual duties." Elizabeth said with a sigh.
"Indeed." Nazz said in a neutral tone as he saw Draudillon leave the room.
"We should worry, or we will risk them getting lost in the passages."
Nazz nodded at this, preparing to leave before he looked back at the vault one more time. He then thought that he should report this to Aizen. If nothing else, perhaps they could use their sources to find someone that could open it.
General Iain La Baran found himself entertaining several guests of considerable importance during the celebrations. Of course, most had been methodically chosen by Iain himself. Some were already in on his goals, while others Iain was still in the process of convincing to his side. Iain needed all forms of support he could get, be it in the form of men to fight for him, or those to advocate for him in the political field. For him, this victory over the beastmen was a blessing in disguise, allowing him to throw a great party to further strengthen his plans.
No matter how high-class and enjoyable the night was, the morning after was filled with silence. Many of the guests recovered from overindulging in drink, food, and "entertainment", while others had left. In the case of Iain himself, even if he had ended his night in the company of two lovely ladies, he was currently in the garden alone, as he saw the sun finish rising with a cup of tea in hand, and the morning winds caressing his face.
"You called?" The spy Apollo asked, appearing from atop a tree branch as he jumped down in front of Iain.
"I did." Iain replied in a relaxed manner, setting his cup to the side, and motioning to an empty seat.
"How may I be of service?" Apollo asked, taking said seat.
"I want to know what you managed to collect over this first night."
"I managed to look into Sol. He spent most of his night preparing strategies for future missions, apparently there are plans being set in motion to begin sending teams beyond the recently liberated city. He's receiving great aid from Ezekiel's subordinates, as he's still in the field." Apollo said, to which Iain dismissively rolled his eyes.
"Hmph. Sol is harmless as it is. He heads the weakest faction in the army, and can be dealt with later. What else?" Iain insisted.
"He's considering using some of the Espada stationed in the city to aid these teams." The spy added, causing the general to raise a concerned eyebrow at him.
"You should've started with that. That is troublesome. The Espada have already done enough as it is, and it'll do us no good to have someone else give them orders... How many does he plan to use?"
"I cannot be sure."
"Tsk... Fine. No matter. Displacing the Espada isn't a problem. They might be strong, but keeping them in smaller groups should limit it, to an extent..." Iain coolly remarked, even as he remembered how three cleared out a city full of beastmen.
"... It shouldn't be a problem to counter his proposal if need be. What else?"
"Both the prime minister and the Queen remained in the palace, as far as I was able to tell. As you are aware, the magical wards that keep sections of the castle safe, prevent me from getting too close. To the point, I'd prefer to avoid entering the castle altogether if possible." Apollo warily informed.
"Is that your professional opinion?"
"It is."
"Very well. I already have some people there that follow my ideals, but are far too low-ranking in the castle's hierarchy to give me the necessary information. No matter. We can work with what we have, and I'm sure that in due time we will find a safe way in." Iain confidently stated, refilling his cup and taking another gulp.
"Continue." He instructed, prompting Apollo to place a set of folded, wrapped papers on the table.
"I managed to observe most of the nobles you pointed out to me. I wrote down things that I believe might be of use for you, to get their cooperation in the future."
"Good, good. Now, about the Espada, you are to leave them alone for now. We know far too little about them, and cannot risk them finding out about us. The fact their leader is aware of the traitor situation, and likely informed his people regardless of calls for silence, is already an issue for us. Do you understand?"
"I do."
"Good. Now, onto our last topic, the duel between Nazz and Cerabrate." Iain began.
"Should I spy on it?"
"No, but do keep an eye on the rest of Crystal Tear, and any other way you might learn of the outcome. I am... curious to know how it goes."
"As you wish." Apollo dutifully replied.
"Good. Dismissed."
Getting back to his feet, Apollo gave him a head-bow, before turning around and then silently vanishing back to the tree he had emerged from in a blur. Leaving Iain to peruse the contents of the documents that had been left to him.
During the time that events in the Dragon Kingdom took place, the southern nation of Kokka no Shinku-Kokai stood as a beacon and example of strength and prosperity. Few nations could ever hope to emulate their example. Though spoken of in whispers, few knew the truths behind the veil of legend and rumor.
The nation was founded 500 years ago by a Player of YGGDRASIL named, Yoshitsune. Much the same as others like him, his guild-base had been transported along with him. The imposing and beautiful Takamagahara, whose white, lime-green, and gold-colored Japanese-styled castle shaped 1st-floor becoming a permanent part of the nation's landscape since its first appearance so long ago.
Yoshitsune had brought with him a mindset of equality and coexistence between not only the people, but also between races. A vision that he saw through with his own power, and his NPCs, achieving peace in his time. However, no matter how much of an icon he was, and or how powerful as a level-100 Player, he was still human. He eventually passed away at the age of 132, leaving behind a dynasty and followers that made it their purpose to maintain this peace, and his vision.
This heavy burden was now carried by the current Emperor and his descendant, the 25-year-old Daisuke Goto. However, he was left to do so with the survivors of what was at the time of their prime, over 75,000 POP and custom NPCs. Over time this changed, because much like the First Emperor, the human and dwarven NPCs passed away from old age.
Still, the current Emperor did not let this affect him. After all, he had an entire nation that had been uplifted by his family and his own will to make said family proud and build his own legacy. Those NPCs that aged and died, and those that did not, produced strong heirs with the natives of the new world they found themselves in. They then in turn produced strong descendants that ensured the national power of Kokka no Shiku-Kokai was maintained, along with the class of warriors known as "Samurai", that the First Emperor established.
The former guild-base, now turned Imperial Palace, possessed five main floors, with the sixth being the Treasury. Of particular note was the 5th-floor, whose fake-sky was characterized by permanent state of night, with a treacherous forest where the darkness was further increased by the trees' magical properties. In the center was a small Japanese style castle, where in the past all members of the guild would have gathered, and now was used by the Emperor to meet with his highest-ranking advisors.
Presently, the young Emperor was within an arena-type square of the 5th-floor, and found himself thrown onto the ground in a sparring match. A showing that for most would be rather appalling. However, for him and the most of the NPCs, it was a necessity brought by his wish to keep up his strength, in what was already a greatly weakening family line. As the descendant of the Player Yoshitsune, Daisuke was naturally good looking with medium length black hair, gray eyes, possessed a toned fit build, and a slightly taller than average height.
However, currently he was covered in dust, mud, and bruises meaning his good looks weren't so easy to see. After all, it was to be expected when he asked to train with the strongest, and one of the few evil aligned NPCs of the guild, the level-100 Nephilim named Daikokuten. He was an imposing being that stood 9-feet-tall, with grayish-colored skin, a toned but strangely thin, misshapen body, and was bald, with perfectly white sharp teeth, and beautiful brown eyes.
While neither of them was a true hand-to-hand combatant, Daikokuten rather enjoyed beating someone down with his bare-hands. So, if he could use a training session as an excuse to fight in this manner, he would take it. This preference also explained why both were wearing only minimal gear, as he liked the certain raw and primal mind-set that came with this kind of fight.
"Ah, it is expected if you don't get up, Goto-kun. After all, someone who stands at the meager level of 80, can do little to stand up against someone of my caliber. Hah!" Daikokuten laughed, as the young Emperor failed to get back up to his feet.
This turn of events prompted a female NPC that was watching from the sidelines to observe the session and activate the item to provide light to the area, to place herself in the way of Emperor Daisuke and Daikokuten. This was Kasuga, a level-65 five-tailed Kitsune, and the leader of NPCs called the, "Warrior Ōoku". She was also responsible for acting as a mother figure, teacher, wet-nurse, and even sexual partner for every descendant of the First Emperor. For this, all of them referred to her as, "Okā-san".
Kasuga's tails and ears that emerged from under her hair, were a bright reddish color with some yellow tints, much like a red fox. Her skin was a light, creamy color, with golden eyes, and long, purple-colored hair, held in a ponytail and decorated with flower hairpins. She possessed average height, with an above average bust, wearing a flower pattern kimono which left her neckline, shoulders, and part of the side of her legs exposed whenever she walked.
"You have done enough, Daikokuten. This ends now." She commanded, causing the Nephilim to cross his arms and tilt his head to the side almost in confusion.
"Says who? You, Kasuga-chan? Who are you to stop me? Are you going against the wishes of the last Kami, even after I did exactly as I was told?" Daikokuten asked with a mocking tone.
"This is not training. You are just giving him a senseless beating." Kasuga argued, going to the Emperor's aid after realizing Daikokuten wasn't advancing.
"Hmph. Perhaps I didn't pull my punches that much, but he's not a boy anymore, he's a man. He needs to understand how these things feel like, if he is to properly succeed as our leader." The Nephilim remarked, which only earned him a spiteful expression from Kasuga.
"That is not up to you to judge! That's not what you promised to Yoshitsune-sama." She quickly spat back, to which he simply gave a wide grin to.
"But it is. I have no wish to be ruled by a weak leader. Now, let him stand up!"
The story of Daikokuten was an interesting one, because even if he was among the few evil NPCs in the guild, he was the only one that openly contested Yoshitsune's rule after their transfer. As per his written lore, Daikokuten was made to follow only the strong, those that he saw as worthy of leading him.
That was why Yoshitsune's first great challenge in the new world was presented to him right away as the Nephilim showed himself to be everything but helpful. Even hindering access to the dark forest. When confronted Daikokuten suggested a one-on-one fight to decide if the guild-master, last of the Kami, was in fact worthy of his servitude.
The two fought much like what Daikokuten had just done with Daisuke. However, then it was a serious battle and not just a sparring match, with the memory of it still very much present in all those that witnessed it. Yoshitsune was beaten very badly by the physically superior Nephilim. Even if both were level-100s, their builds made it so the player had a clear disadvantage.
Yet in the end, Yoshitsune's superior mind, knowledge, and experience gained from both his previous life and YGGDRASIL, allowed him to achieve victory, even if only barely. This was how Daikokuten had come to willingly serve him, and all of his descendants. Taking it upon himself to personally judge if they were worthy to take the place of Yoshitsune.
As things were now with Daisuke on the floor, the Nephilim wasn't so convinced the young man was worthy of his position, and he had no qualms of when he thought of what he should do if Daisuke was in fact a failure. Yet, as Kasuga tried to help him, Daisuke pushed her away. An act that surprised her even if she complied and gave him some space. The young Emperor then slowly and steadily rose to his feet, much to Daikokuten's pure amusement, and secret pride.
"Yessss... That's it. Those eyes. Look at them, Kasuga! Look at how they burn with his will power alone. Just like Yoshitsune-sama's when he beat me. Yes, this boy is without a doubt one of his successors. Heheheh..."
With this, Daikokuten smirked, went to his knees, placed both hands on the floor, and finally his forehead, as he paid tribute to the young Emperor. His loyalty and devotion having finally been earned by Yoshitsune's newest descendant.
"But... I-I'm not finished." Daisuke panted through gritted teeth.
"Heh. But I am. We have achieved much with this session... Goto-sama. We can continue some other day." The Nephilim said with a smile, rising from the kneeling position.
With things finally coming an end, Kasuga was quick to aid the Emperor, giving him a red potion to return him to 100%. While in the case of a normal training session Daisuke would not use a healing potion, preferring his body naturally heal to maximize his gains from the session, in this case he saw fit to heal himself. He did not want to risk a more serious issue, given some of the pains he was now feeling, and to not let it interfere with him.
Still, saying that he had gotten nothing from this session would be a lie, as he had finally, firmly acquired the loyalty of Daikokuten. Something many of the other NPCs had warned, and even counseled him on. Of course, even he had some fears when it came to the Nephilim and the difference of power between them, but he didn't tell anyone of it. As Emperor, he knew he had to keep up a certain façade around his subjects. Now, he could breathe slightly easier.
As he pondered on what to do next, Kasuga was still making sure he was back to a normal state, when an elf POP-NPC emerged from the forest bringing the silence to an end. Elves composed the largest number of surviving NPCs, given their longevity. Although at this point, all of them were at least of middle-age, and most had left the base, spreading across the land to serve in various other capacities, and sired many strong children along the way.
This one was male, wearing gear fit for the best of rogues. His blond hair was long, held in a ponytail, with his eyes a crystalline blue. His name was Traro, and was quick to kneel as soon as his presence was made known.
"Goto-sama. I bring a report from the 'Observer'." He dutifully announced.
"I see... Then..."
Daisuke was about to question why the [Message] spell hadn't been used, but he soon then remembered the four tags Kasuga had placed on the trees. They invoked a spell that made sure said spell couldn't contact someone within affected area, so the training session wouldn't be interrupted by such things.
"Speak." Daisuke regally commanded.
"..."
Traro didn't even get a chance to speak, when fours beams of light descended from the sky in quick succession, destroying the tags Kasuga had placed. Something that made Daikokuten laugh as all eyes went to the air.
Hovering at a small distance from them was a large ball of flesh covered in dark-red scales. In the center was a large snake-like eye, sizable teeth-filled mouth, and connected to the large orb-like body were ten tentacles with smaller versions of the large eye in the center. This was a level-80 Beholder, named Omoikane. Also known as "Observer", since he specialized in scrying magic, along with functioning as a hovering, living encyclopedia given his perfect memory, and genius level intellect.
Omoikane followed this, by setting his attention on Kasuga, quickly hovering down until he was in front of her, using some of his eyestalks to look at her, while using the rest and his main eye to look at the Emperor.
"You dare cut off my access to this area!? Putting at risk my function, and delaying the delivery of reports!? I demand a punishment for this!" Omoikane angrily roared in a commanding tone.
"There is no need for such a thing, Observer. I was the one that asked Okā-san to give us some privacy. If you have a complaint, I am free to hear it." Daisuke calmly said, earning himself the Beholder's full attention.
"In that case Goto-sama, I would suggest reconsidering such a course of action when situations like these arrive. It affects the efficiency of our communications network." Omoikane informed, now taking on a calmer and more formal tone.
"Noted. Traro, you were in the process of starting to give me a report." The Emperor said, turning to the elf.
"Indeed..." Traro replied, just for Omoikane to speak over him.
"Allow me, Goto-sama. I was the first to become aware of the information. I can do it better than this, fleshling."
"That's enough, Omoikane." Daisuke sternly instructed, taking the NPC by surprise.
"You will return to your station. After all, you being here means that none of your direct sources can get in quick contact with you, correct?" He then added.
"Correct. However..." The Observer tried to argue, but his superior was having none of it.
"So you will return to your post and keep us informed in case something else happens."
"U-Understood, Goto-sama." With that the Beholder went back into the air and left.
"Again, Traro, the report."
"Yes! The Selection as come to an end, my lord. From the 20 candidates, one's shown to stand above all others, with the backing of the Shibata Clan. A girl by the name of Kuchiki Rukia. Preliminary analysis indicates a level of 60, and according to the Observer she and her family, probably came from the north, even if they might have origins in the south."
Long ago, "The Selection" was a process implemented by the Third Emperor in an effort to find the best possible wife. She would go on to become Empress, and provide the weakening line with strong heirs. The process gathered women that, given their family history and feats, were seen as good candidates, these being presented by the different families, even if these women did not belong to the family itself.
Even the Nine Great Clans, like the Shibatas, would take part in this. After all, if one of theirs was picked, this would mean that they would grow closer to the Imperial Family, leading to an expansion of their influence and power. After the best possible candidate was chosen, she would go through several individual tests to make sure she was in fact worthy of the role she was to take on. Such a fate was expected for this "Rukia", even if all of those present raised an eyebrow at her level.
"Heh-heh... It seems humans in the north are stronger than I was led to believe." Daikokuten chuckled.
"And you were right. Barring some exceptions, there are no humans as strong as she is." Kasuga gracefully informed.
"Are we sure she's human?" Daisuke skeptically asked, looking at Traro.
"So said The Observer. At least, that's her preliminary classification. Further analysis should tell us without a doubt what she is."
"Hm. Very well. Is there anything else?"
"No, my lord."
"Dismissed." Daisuke instructed, to which Traro stood up, bowed, and left with a brisk gait.
"I want to be kept informed about her progress." Daisuke firmly stated, turning to Kasuga.
"As you wish." Kasuga replied with a bow.
"Still, are you sure she may not be human? Lately we've discussed people like this mysterious Momon, Nabe, and this group called the 'Espada' that have risen to prominence over the last couple of months." The Emperor pointed out.
"We are still not 100% sure if those individuals are also fully human themselves, no matter what the northerners think." She plainly added.
"If she is hiding a 'true form' with magic, Omoikane could dispel it, correct?"
"That is true. All tiers of magic can be affected by him, save only for the Super-Tier, and the ancient magic of the Dragon Lords, [Wild Magic]." Kasuga dutifully replied.
"If that is necessary, it'll only be done with my say so. Until then, you are all dismissed."
Having given his order, Daikokuten left with a chuckle, and in oddly good spirits, with only Kasuga remaining with a slightly mischievous smile on her face.
"I am so proud of what you achieved today, Goto-sama.~" She said with a motherly tone.
"Thank you, Okā-san." Daisuke admitted, giving her a small respectful nod.
"I always knew that you would be able to do it. Even if I dislike saying it, it's much like what Daikokuten said. You have within you the fire of the First, like those that came before you." She informed, maintaining the same tone as she took his arm.
"Even so, you must still feel spent from what he did to you. Why not allow me and the others of the 'Warrior Ōoku', help you relax~?" Kasuga added, now with a much more mischievous tone
"Ah, hm... I suppose I have nothing else to do at the moment. Very well, Okā-san."
Sighing at the situation, the young Emperor held up his right fist, and invoked the powers of the golden colored ring, with a red jewel on it where inside were depicted 3 black colored tomoe rested, or mitsudomoe, that rested upon his ring finger. It was the guild-ring that belonged to the First Emperor Yoshitune, which had been passed down to each of his successors since. In a flash of blue light, both Daisuke and Kasuga disappeared from the dark forests of the 5th-floor, and into his chambers for a decidedly different type of training...