It was later on in the evening, well half-past midnight, when the rest of the Capital became aware of the situation. The Espada were called upon to take part in a meeting, along with every available adventurer, to discuss the current situation. They were now in a rather cramped room, due to every adventurer down to even the lowest-ranked being present. However, no matter the rank none had missed or ignored the arrival of the Espada.
Aizen and Amelia were naturally present, while Cthalpi had been sent to guard the safe house where Gaius and the rest of the manor's inhabitants were being kept. The Fracción weren't present even if they were expected to fight when the situation called for it. Although they had been selflessly "loaned" to the Capital to keep watch as the meeting took place. The presence of the ranked Espada caused quite the interested stir of whispered conversations in the room.
The 2nd-Espada Annika Masador Aenar was wearing white, blue, and yellow robes fit for combat, yet seemed to possess a rather "divine" aura to it, with her silver staff in hand. The 1st-Espada Rylen Tsezguerra was wearing gear very similar to what Gazef wears on a regular basis, but differed in that it possessed a surcoat, and only bore a hardened wooden staff or polearm as his weapon.
In the case of 9th-Espada Jaecar Laporin, he was wearing a dark-gray and green scouting light-armor with hood, several straps hanging from it, and a quiver with several arrows and a finely crafted bow that appeared to be made of mythril. The 7th-Espada Jillur Gralik continued to wear his cloak and hood, along with a light-black, light-armor set made for equal parts mobility and protection.
Juno was wearing armor not too dissimilar to what Climb wore in service to the Princess Renner, though differed with a dark-green coloration, had a finely crafted longsword sheathed on her left-side. Even with the duo of Momon and Nabe in the room, the Espada still got a lot of attention mostly because of their nature as mercenaries and the latter having found that sweet spot in the crowd and shadows where they seemingly blended in. As they waited for Princess Renner to arrive, Amelia separated from her group as Juno followed after her, moving towards Momon and Nabe. This gained the duo's the attention as she approached.
"Good evening." Amelia greeted with a nod and neutral tone.
"Good evening." Momon remarked, with a nod of his own and similar tone.
"Well, it would seem like tonight will be a long one if you're here." She pointed nonchalantly out.
"...Hm. Likewise." The dark adventurer said after a brief pause.
"That aside, I'd like to inform you that your request has been completed. You can retrieve it whenever we are done here." Amelia informed in a very formal and professional manner.
"..."
Underneath the guise of "Momon", Ainz was somewhat taken aback, since they had completed the rather vast process of information gathering much quicker than he imagined. Of course he was greatly pleased, but he still thought it would have taken longer. Still, it was a pleasant surprise, and truly showed him that the trouble he had gone through with dealing with the Espada was more worth it than he thought. Along with his double insistences of his NPCs being careful with them.
"Ah... Hm... I see... Very well. I will try my best to find you when this is done. Whenever and however that happens." Momon said in a dignified tone that masked his surprise and eagerness.
"Agreed. Until then, it's been a pleasure doing business with you."
With that, Amelia and Juno promptly returned to their group, just as Princess Renner, the entirety of Blue Rose, and Warrior-Captain Gazef walked in. Almost as soon as this happened, Climb walked away from the side of a blue-haired man known only to a few as Brain Unglaus.
With a large scroll in his hand, he placed it upon a wall, revealing a detailed map of the Capital. This was followed by a quick message from a female in her forties that was the guild-master of the Capital's Adventurer's Guild. It was a quick briefing to give the adventurers present a feeling for the nature of the situation, before giving the floor to the Kingdom's, "Golden Princess".
"I am Renner Theiere Chardelon Ryle Vaiself, and I am deeply grateful that everyone here was able to respond to the extraordinary summons issued tonight." The Princess announced, taking a graceful bow that further gained her the affection of the crowd.
Renner then proceeded to explain the current situation to those present, including the true nature of the large wall of flames that soared in over 30-meters in height as illusions, and the presence of demons. Including a particularly powerful one named, "Jaldabaoth". Something that prompted understandably concerned, and some terrified reactions from the adventurers. However, this information made Aizen lean towards Amelia's ear as he quietly mumbled to her.
"In my world, there was tale of a being with a similar name, Yaldabaoth. Who was also known as, 'Demiurge'." He said while carefully concealing his dry amusement.
"Is that so? I guess, we will need to ask Cthalpi about it." Amelia chuckled in reply as the gathered group continued the meeting.
"...Cut off the head and the body will die... a basic tactic. Does that mean all we have to do is defeat this 'Jaldabaoth'?" A mythril-ranked adventurer questioningly spoke up.
"That might be an oversimplification, but fundamentally it is true. However, what I wish to ask of you all, is to defeat this demon's plot. We have information that suggests that he is here to seize a certain magic item which is within the capital." Renner demurely pointed out.
This statement caused even more of a stir among the adventurers. A stir that eventually led to a back-and-forth between her and a few adventurer ranks as they questioned the validity of this information, as well as questioning the power of this unknown demon. Things that were rather amusing and interesting for Amelia and Aizen.
Especially as they learned more about this "plot", and did not have a chance to speak with Renner before their arrival. However, Lakyus did not agree with the current conversation, or the tone it was taking, as she took it upon herself to put things back on track.
"My teammate Evileye is the one who is most familiar with Jaldabaoth's strength, but we don't know the specifics yet. We'll update you later." She sternly spoke up, getting the attention of those present before continuing.
"I shall speak of what I know as my group's representative. My comrades encountered an insectoid maid, believed to be one of Jaldabaoth's followers, and defeated her, only for Jaldabaoth to appear and engage them in battle..."
Lakyus spoke as she looked around to Tia, Gagaran, and Evileye who had seen the demon and survived by the skin of their teeth, had it been not for the appearance of Momon. Of course, after their previous encounter/defeat by Evileye's old acquaintance Vali Kaas and his group, they trained themselves to recognize immensely dangerous and powerful foes.
This allowed them to respond quickly to a being that Evileye described to them in private to be, "as powerful as the Platinum Dragon Lord", and teleport Tia and Gagaran to safety. Going back to continue the briefing, Evileye stepped forward and spoke over her.
"My teammates would have been killed easily, had it not been for our [Teleportation] items. I covered for their escape, and was defeated in a single blow."
Utter chaos bathed the adventurers as they saw the peak of their ranks being made to look like children in the face of this new menace. After all, Evileye was known to them as a wielder of 5th-tier arcane magic, second only to Fluder Paradyne of the Baharuth Empire. If she of all people was defeated in a single blow, then what hope did they have?! The loud, cacophonous uproar irked Evileye as she tried to speak over them, just for someone else to do it for her.
"Silence!" The 1st-Espada Rylen commandingly shouted, ending all noise in the room.
"You shame yourselves and your ranks with such hysteria! Remember who and what we are. We are those that can stand up and fight against this threat. We cannot afford to let mere words throw us into disarray! Now steel yourselves, think of what will happen if we fail here today, and if we panic in the face of the enemy. Think of not only yourselves, but your friends, your companions, your families, and loved ones. Their futures are in our hands. Now stand up straight and listen to her!"
Naturally, everyone did as he said, so enraptured by his commanding presence. Even Ainz in his "Momon" persona did so, momentarily finding himself caught up in the determination and the passion in Rylen's voice, before then quickly going back to his calm disposition before anyone, especially "Nabe" picked up on it.
"I... Y-Yes... There's no need to be afraid..." Evileye informed, snapping out of the stupor that Rylen's domineering presence had placed upon her as well.
"Certainly, Jaldabaoth is powerful. I can vouch for this, having faced him with nothing to show for it but defeat. But there's no need to worry. There is a man who can do battle evenly with the demon Jaldabaoth!" She passionately informed, doing her best not to waste Rylen's words as the more quick-witted among the adventurers glanced at a particular individual.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I believe you all know this man. From the third adamantite-ranked team founded in E-Rantel. The leader of Team Darkness, the Dark Hero Momon!"
Naturally, all eyes went to Momon and the world-class beauty that was his companion, Nabe the "Beautiful Princess". Almost all that were not the Espada were in awe of them, while Aizen and Amelia started to understand that the goal of the demon invasion, was to most likely give "Momon" another boost in popularity and fame, and to perhaps secure additional resources from the economic district simultaneously.
"Quickly, Momon. Please come to the front of the room." Evileye excitedly said, just for the Dark Hero to whisper something to Nabe, whom quickly spoke up in a raised, albeit cool tone.
"Momon says there's no need for a lengthy introduction, and we should quickly begin the briefing."
"Well, that is a shame. Then, let us make haste, as Momon suggests. Evileye, may I continue the briefing?" Renner asked in a cordial, dignified tone.
"A-Apologies, Princess Renner. Please, continue." Evileye quickly remarked, with audible disappointment in her voice as her shoulders seemed to slump.
"As Evileye said, we have someone that can stand against Jaldabaoth. Everyone, please rest assured that we're not picking a fight we cannot win. Now then, I shall explain the details of the operation..." Renner firmly informed, turning her attention back to the adventurers.
She then proceeded to explain how for this current situation they would be working as a "bow", and how their strategy would work. This was quickly argued by some adventures. They pointed out things like using the city-guards, since they were typically weaker than even iron-plates. So there was understandable concern that they guards would be covering the back of retreating adventurers.
Then they suggested the usage of the spell [Fly] to help prevent the weakening their battle lines. However, and as one should have expected, Princess Renner was quick to counter this with the fact such a spell would only serve to draw the attention of and leave them vulnerable to flying-type demons. Also, she clarified that just like their lines could thin out, so too would enemy's, opening a path for the "arrow" to their "bow".
"Our arrow will be Momon, and when he sees the enemy lines open up, he'll be making a low-altitude flying assault to break through them, and strike at the heart of this menace." She added with a surprisingly passionate tone that took all but Aizen and Amelia off-guard.
"Then... How about Red Drop? Even if they're adamantite-ranked, I don't see how two people can break through by themselves. Just to be safe, how about we have someone to screen them before they reach Jaldabaoth?" One adventurer asked, as the guildmaster promptly answered.
"At the moment they are performing a task within the borders of the Argland Council State, and we've already used [Message] to inform them of the situation here. However, returning will take them one half-day. By that time it would be too late, so we're not counting their strength into our plans."
"Then how about Blue Rose? Will they be going in with Momon?" Another in the adventurer crowd asked.
"We will be reinforcing our battle lines in this fight, while Evileye will be doing something else..." Lakyus replied as she motioned to her named comrade with a solemn expression.
Of course, Lakyus and the rest wanted to join Evileye in this fight. However, after discussing various things in private, it was decided that Evileye would accompany Momon. Given the strength of Jaldabaoth and that "insect maid", they agreed that their presence would be better suited on the frontlines.
"...I'll be accompanying Momon as he makes his entry. To that end, I have been focusing on restoring my mana."
"And what about the Espada?" Another asked as all eyes right away went to them.
"We will do as the Princess has requested of us, and supply people for the frontlines..." Amelia professionally said, motioning to Rylen.
Right away this had them whispering as they saw someone whom was so well-known for his skills in Rylen being on the frontlines, and was greatly reassuring. Truly with him, the other Espada, the Blue Roses, and Gazef there would be little that could hold them back, even when the enemy were demons.
"...The 2nd-Espada Annika Masador Aenar will provide magical support, which includes healing and recovery magic." She added, getting a very pleased reaction from almost everyone she would be working with, even if there were more than a few wagging tongues at the prospect.
"For support on the rooftops, we have the 9th-Espada Jaecar Laporin, and if need be, we can send in 4th-Espada Juno Ulmeyda with Momon and his team." Amelia further suggested.
"Any and all assistance is welcomed, and if Dark Hero Momon agrees to it, I see no problems with sending someone else with them..." Princess Renner began in a grateful tone, when another voice rudely cut in.
"...Why the 4th-ranked and not the 1st?" Evileye skeptically asked, earning her more than a few inquisitive looks, prompting her to explain herself.
"I-I mean, if we are to strengthen our 'arrow', and provide Momon with the best possible support, wouldn't a stronger Espada be more useful?"
"A good question. While Rylen is the superior choice, he cannot be denied as essential on the frontlines. Our 'arrow' already has Momon, however we cannot leave our battle-lines deprived of such talent. Especially when he is probably the oldest and most experienced individual in the room. It would be foolish to deprive our people of him, just so he can go and lead a small group. Not to mention, as you might have noticed, many of those here look up to him and clearly are keen on following him into battle and see if his reputation is true. That'll certainly do wonders for morale. That being said, would you suggest him going with you?" Amelia professionally replied.
"No... Well, I would still want to know what Juno has to offer, to be your choice." Evileye pointed out, carefully looking around her.
"Another good question. The answer is simple, and one of the reasons why I have her as a bodyguard and not the 1st-ranked. She is skilled and dedicated, and she has trained to further better herself under Rylen himself. She may not be our strongest, but if you want someone to look over you and keep you safe, Juno will do so unflinchingly."
"Very admirable qualities. While it may be true that she lacks in the 1st-Espada's overall power, she is still skilled and capable, and in these trying times one cannot ignore the need of someone who can look over you in the heat of battle." Renner added in a supportive tone.
"I..." Evileye went to speak, when Nabe's cool voice chimed in.
"My leader Momon agrees, and is for Juno being part of our group."
"That settles it then. Juno will be part of our arrow." Renner declared with a charming smile and tone that seemed to sway the crowd.
"Very well..." Evileye mumbled in defeat.
"Then permit me to ask another question, but of the Warrior-Captain. What about the nobles' house troops and warriors? Couldn't you lead them into battle, and let Blue Rose and the Espada handle the task of clearing the path for Momon?" An adventurer in the crowd asked, and with no immediate answer the question was reinforced as he forcefully spoke again.
"Answer us!"
This prompted Gazef to step forwards, replying with a straightforward, yet dignified tone.
"The house troops are responsible for protecting their masters' estates, and the soldiers look to the defense of the capital. And the warriors I lead are tasked with defending the Royal Family."
"So you're saying you won't be setting foot on the battlefield?" The same adventurer resentfully asked.
"Indeed, that is so. My duty is to stay in the Royal Palace and protect the members of the Royal Family." The Warrior-Captain stoically replied.
Immediately the idea of sharing the battlefield with Blue Rose, Gazef, and Rylen came crashing down around many of those present. The same applied to morale as they saw the Kingdom's strongest man being restricted to nothing but a bodyguard, to a group of people who at the moment had nothing else on their mind but to protect themselves. With this sentiment sinking in, the room was filled with hostility towards the already disliked nobles, which prompted Lakyus to act.
"Everyone, I understand you're not happy with his arrangement. However! I'd advise you to keep something in mind. The one paying to gather you and the Espada here is not the Royal Family, but Princess Renner herself, out of her own private finances. And the one who brought Momon here was the Marquis Raeven. He's not here tonight because he's on guard against any demons that might be dispersed further in the capital. Certainly, I'm as unhappy with the nobles as you are, but please consider that they are not all cut from the same cloth."
With those words, the adventurers slowly calmed down. Especially when they saw that the Espada remained calm throughout, which made them respect the group for the consummate professionals that they are. Furthermore, they also realized that in this room, they were in the presence of two nobles who were putting effort into this crisis in the forms of the Golden Prince Renner, and Amelia of the Espada. Add on to that the fact that Lakyus herself was of noble blood, and the crowd swiftly reigned in their discontent.
"And there is one more thing. Before we fire the arrow, we must perform one more task. Climb!" Renner suddenly spoke up.
"Yes, Princess!" Climb quickly and energetically replied.
"Although it is a very dangerous task, still I must entrust it to you. When we enter the enemy's stronghold, there might be survivors. Please rescue them." She said with a compassionate, almost pleading tone, getting several worried and pessimistic mumbles in reply from the gathered adventurers.
"Yes, Your Majesty! I will stake my life to accomplish this task you've charged me with!" The young fighter passionately replied, getting even less positive incentive from those around him, as a familiar male voice beside him spoke up.
"Excuse me, Princess... Climb is just one man, and there might be some risk. Will you permit me to accompany him?"
"Will that be all right, Brain Unglaus?" Renner asked with a head-tilt.
Another noteworthy name that got the attention of the adventurers, with his presence once again helping to boost their morale, as no one who valued strength would fail to recognize his name.
"Ah, it's no problem for me." Brain nonchalantly replied as he waved off concern.
"The Espada can also add to this effort. We have two unranked members we can offer for this search-&-rescue group. A magic-caster and a scout." Amelia confidently added.
"They are welcomed." Renner pointed out in a grateful tone.
"Yes, thank you." Climb added with a bow.
After this initial phase of the meeting, what followed was a "calmer" phase where those present interacted with each other and introduced themselves, trying to interact with the more powerful, and influential people in the room. Whether it was for personal benefit, or for the excitement of meeting those they admired, varied from person-to-person.
Outside of this room was Renner, Climb, Brain, the Worker Lockmeier, Amelia, Aizen, Elsa, Jaecar, Khajiit, and Clementine. They were currently in the process of discussing the help Amelia had promised to Climb's task.
"These are the members I spoke of; Elsa, the ranger and archer." Amelia informed, motioning to Elsa who was wearing similar gear to Jaecar.
"This is Karr, our magic-caster."
Amelia said this as she motioned to Khajiit, using alias so as not to raise suspicion in case either "Momon" or "Nabe" heard and recognized his name. "Karr" was wearing dark brown robes, with a light brown sash at the waste, and a dark-colored staff with a red jewel in his left hand.
"I think they will do. Don't you agree, Climb?" Renner asked as she looked at him.
"Of course, Princess Renner. H-However, I would like to ask if she could be added to the team?" Climb asked, motioning to Clementine, who smiled and winked at him as Amelia replied.
"Selina? I'm afraid that, such a thing isn't possible. She is not able to work properly with a large team. That's why we have her working with a single person. Normally that is Karr, but tonight it will be Jaecar."
"I see... Still, I am thankful for your assistance." Climb said with a bow.
Renner, Climb, Brain, Amelia, and Aizen went back inside the meeting room, while Lockmeier and Khajiit started to walk in the opposite direction, with Elsa briefly staying behind as Jaecar spoke to her before she could leave.
"So... Good luck out there." Jaecar said in a concerned tone.
"Right. I mean, it's just demons. What's the worst that can happen? Hehe." Elsa remarked with a weak, almost uninterested laugh.
"Heh. True..." Jaecar chuckled, just as she spoke over him.
"I should go." Elsa said, walking away just as Rylen emerged from the room.
"Leave us." Rylen instructed while looking at Clementine.
"As you wish.~" She purred, sauntering into the next room.
"Distracted?" Rylen asked in a stern manner.
"N-No! Not at all. I was just..." The younger Espada tried to answer, when his elder spoke over him.
"Distracting yourself. You have to act on, whatever this is soon, Jaecar. As is, this does nothing but keeping your mind away from work, and strain mine and Elsa's patience with you."
"I... This is not the time..." Jaecar tried to argue, but again Rylen spoke over him.
"This is not the time for a mistake. I cannot cover for you failing to hit a target or being slow to react. Or worse..."
"That won't happen." Jaecar argued, sounding tired and defeated at the entire situation.
"I should hope so. Go inside and think about fixing this."
As this meeting went on, there was a point where "Momon" revealed his "face" by lifting up his helm and rotating his neck as if to relieve some discomfort. A small gesture that got him a lot of attention. Especially from some of the intrigued female adventurers in the room. However, Ainz's plan was simply to try and dissuade any curiosity Gazef might have about him, by letting him see the illusionary face he used on himself. After all, he did not want to risk his voice being recognized by the Warrior-Captain, who met "Ainz Ooal Gown" in Carne Village.
Naturally, this also drew the attention of the Espada, and given their levels, the relatively low-level spell did nothing to impede their perception of him. So before all of them was a fleshless, marble-white skull with two crimson orbs. For all of them, especially Rylen, Juno, and Aizen, this face was certainly that of an Overlord. Meaning that without a doubt, Momon was the master of Nazarick Momonga, or as he now called himself, Ainz Ooal Gown.
"T-That's an Overlord, right?" Amelia quietly mumbled, leaning towards Aizen.
"Is it?" Aizen asked in an almost sarcastic tone.
"Don't joke around. Aren't other people seeing this?" She argued, carefully looking around with her eyes.
"I do not believe so. They are seeing a human head at the moment, with features reminiscent of the south. You however, are somehow seeing through that illusion." Aizen coolly replied.
"That... But I can still see the flames... and how can I even see through illusions to begin with?" Amelia asked, making sure to keep the same low and calm tone, even if inwardly she was totally confused.
"You need to be patient. I believe this is because there is a considerable difference in power between both spells. Still, whatever the case may be, you are obviously developing some interesting abilities. Perhaps another side-effect from our time together, outside of the overall level increase." He thoughtfully suggested.
"And let me guess; you were expecting this to happen?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.
"In a sense. In the past something similar happened, so it was possible it could happen again."
"Oh? Have you had sex with people before so as to enhance them?" Amelia remarked with a teasing chuckle.
"Not at all. The method is different, but the results might be the same. It might take some time, but I would imagine that soon these abilities will fully develop."
"Develop into what?"
"I am unsure. It depends greatly on the individual. On their wants, their desires, and ability to see them through." Aizen replied, getting a mischievous look from her.
"Then perhaps we should do it more often. It might make things clearer and help things develop more quickly."
"Hm. Perhaps."
Gazef was among those that saw Momon's "face", but with what curiosity he had sated, his current focus was leaving and fulfilling his duties to the Royal Family. Despite managing to avoid most formalities, before he could take his leave, he was interrupted by one of the few people who had the ability to keep him from his duties for a little longer in Rylen.
"I see you're sitting this one out." Rylen remarked in a friendly manner.
"Ah, with all due respect, that is hardly the case, sir. It is not my preferred role, but it's still my duty." Gazef argued in a relaxed tone.
"Of that I am certain. Still, I will say that it's smart that we're not sending all of our trump cards onto the frontlines at once." The elder sagely remarked.
"They have you, sir. It would always be a better option than me."
"Oh, you flatter me, Gazef. But young blood, especially of your quality, will always benefit us." Rylen pointed out with smile.
"Haha... Well, I would've preferred to fight at your side, but such decisions are in the hands of others." Gazef said with a weak laugh.
"Like the King?" Rylen asked, getting a nod in reply.
"Yes... I believe that we may yet share the battlefield tonight..." Rylen cryptically said, confusing Gazef for a moment before continuing.
"...But alas I must let you go. You have duties to attend to after all."
"Thank you, sir. I wish you luck." Gazef said with a head-bow, as Rylen stepped to the side.
"Likewise." Rylen replied as Gazef left.
Ainz had placed his helm back on and was currently speaking with Evileye, when another adventurer having seen Momon's face, found himself focused on one of the other individuals with a hidden face, Jillur. Taking advantage of his closeness to the Espada, he had little else to do than to simply ask, and doing so in a manner which most of the room heard him.
"What about you? What do you look like under the hood?"
"..."
Jillur said nothing as he glanced at the man's mythril-plate.
"I don't see how that is relevant." Amelia argued, since both her and Aizen were standing nearby to the Espada.
"I don't mean any offense, but it is fair that we know what he looks like. If we are to trust the people we share the battlefield with, it's only fair that we to know more about them. And if someone of Momon's stature went through the trouble of doing it, then why not him?" The mythril-ranked adventurer argued, gaining the attention of those present
"T..." Amelia went to argue, when Jillur spoke.
"Very well. If it puts you all at ease, I can remove my cloak. However, know that it was you who pushed me to do this..."
Jillur felt that he had little choice to comply in this situation. If he refused a simple request of a mithril-ranked adventurer, after an adamantite-ranked had done it, that would breed quite a bit of unnecessary suspicion, resentment, and discontent. In the coming battle, distractions like that could be costly.
So resolving to avoid those problems, and deal with what came after, Jillur placed his hand on his cloak, and ripped it away. Thus exposing his grayish skin, sharp teeth, somewhat inhuman eyes, and the gills on his neck, which reflexively moved from time-to-time.
"It's a demi-human!" Another adventurer shouted, prompting everyone to focus on the Espada, and some of which almost turned hostile, while Momon calmly gawked at the whole situation.
"What are you saying? He's no such thing." An older, orichalcum-ranked adventurer argued approaching Jillur.
"Are you mad? Just look at him! How is he anything but a demi-human?"
"Exactly. He does not fit any of the known merfolk species."
"R-Really? A half-breed, then?" Another younger adventurer suggested in uncertainty.
"Your ignorance is showing. You can't mix with their kind." A female adventurer remarked, while calmly studying Jillur's features.
"Perhaps he's misshapen. Anyway, he's clearly not human. We cannot allow it to go and fight with us." The adventurer that started this commented in disapproval.
"That's a lie. I was there in E-Rantel. He fought for and protected us." Another younger adventurer pointed out.
"And? They know how to protect themselves to stay alive. So of course he'd protect anyone, if it meant keeping his secret."
"Gentleman, I request you stop throwing around insults. We cannot allow race to cloud our judgment at this time." Lakyus calmly said in a dignified manner while approaching Jillur.
"Especially, when it isn't a matter of race." The Espada then plainly added.
"It isn't?" The adventurer asked with a raised eyebrow.
"It isn't. Jillur was cursed." Amelia replied, with a brief silence filling the room.
"O-Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that. I genuinely thought you were a merfolk of some kind." Lakyus pointed out in an awkward manner.
"I thank you for your words, but that matters little now. I have learned to live with myself long ago."
"How, can we be certain he's telling the truth?" Another adventurer asked.
"I can give you my word he is. If that would help." Renner replied as she stepped up, with the other members of Blue Rose at her side, silently watching things unfold.
"You were aware of this, Princess?" Lakyus asked in surprise.
"I was. When I first decided to come into contact with the Espada, I made sure I knew of any possible 'surprises', so I'd know what I was dealing with."
"Have you tried to dispel this curse?" Momon asked approaching them, with Nabe and Evileye following in tow.
Ainz was greatly interested in this surprising reveal. Not only did he feel like he understood and could relate to Jillur, given what happened to his own body, but he also wanted to understand what this curse was. Looking at him, and given what the others said, Ainz was leaning towards some accidental or purposeful misusage of some spell or item that would change one's race.
He was even keen on the idea of using one of his own spells to either detect what this "curse" was or simply trying to get rid of it himself. Of course, he couldn't do such a thing in the current situation, since he was under the effects of [Perfect Warrior], and he was certain Nabe didn't have it in her skill set to make it happen. Nor would she care.
"We have tried some things, but given the origin of the curse, it is probably impossible to free him of it." Aizen replied as he pushed up his glasses.
"Origin?" Momon asked in curiosity.
"Yes. It was placed on him by a Sea Dragon."
Naturally, the room fell into murmurs, since the few that were aware of what was whispered about dragon magic knew that it was seen as a powerful and overwhelming thing. Rare but still respected, just like dragons themselves. The few that knew of the Sea Dragon, or at least the dragon they assumed the Espada were referring to, were shocked since they had heard it was benevolent.
"And what did you do for the Sea Dragon to curse you? She is said to be benevolent." Evileye pointed out, with a somewhat accusatory tone.
"I did my job. I was tasked with an assassination and I saw it through. Unlike me, my target was very respectful of her waters, and she did not take lightly to me killing those who respect her, criminals or not. I was to forever be bound to the sea, one way or the other." Jillur replied with an emotionless tone.
"I see... Then perhaps you will let me look into your curse?" She incredulously asked, lifting her right hand towards him.
"If you wish."
"Very well... [Detect..."
Evileye said this as she looked at Jillur, and by extension Amelia and Aizen at his sides. As soon as she went to activate her spell, Aizen activated his Perfect Hypnosis, who had long ago placed her under its effects.
This is what silenced Evileye, as she saw a fiery-blue aura erupt from all around Jillur, going in all directions as a pair of glowing yellow eyes formed just above the Espada's head. They pierced through her, as an immense pressure fell upon her shoulders. It built to the point she was ready to fall onto her knees, when suddenly everything returned to normal. Although she was a vampire, the shock to her system had her panting heavily.
"Are you alright, Evileye?" Lakyus asked in concern, going to her side.
"S-Such... power..." Her comrade mumbled with almost a shutter.
Lakyus looked at Jillur with a keen gaze. Ainz also looked back at the Espada with his interest once more piqued, while Nabe remained uninterested. Once more, Ainz was keen on trying to understand what said curse was, when it caused such an effect on Evileye even before she did anything to it. Still, he knew that this wasn't the situation to try and sate his curiosity. For the time being he could only react, and hope others came to conclusions that he could use.
"Is he safe?" An adventurer asked.
"It must have been some kind of defense placed on the curse to keep anyone from affecting it..." Evileye said, still collecting her thoughts.
It had been sometime since Evileye had been in the presence of a source of [Wild Magic], but this made her wish she had the chance to study it further. The feeling that washed over her made her feel like a powerless human girl once more. For her, it was now clear why no one could remove it, and it made perfect sense if the Sea Dragon wanted this to be Jillur's punishment for his misdeeds.
"He is safe. The curse is only placed on him, so it won't affect any of us." She contemplatively added.
"You heard her. Jillur is human and even if he wasn't, he will be protecting all of us on the frontlines." Lakyus announced in a tone that brooked no argument.
For the time being everything settled, and sometime later Renner, Climb's group, Amelia, Aizen, the Espada, and Blue Rose gathered in another room to settle a few details before the missions started. As they were discussing some final details, Climb suddenly spoke up.
"Forgive me, Princess."
"What is it, Climb?" Renner asked sweetly.
"I know another person who could become an arrow for this formation. He is a man with overwhelming fighting power. I ask that we try to approach him for his aid. One arrow is good, but two would be better. If they helped each other, I am certain they could defeat any demon, no matter how powerful."
"Perhaps we should not linger on any more uncertainties Climb? We already have a good team and a good plan. To introduce into it a new variable in the form of a man we're unfamiliar with, seems unwise." Evileye argued, with a hint of annoyance in her voice.
"I-I'm sorry, I had not considered that." Climb quickly remarked, with a somewhat embarrassed tone.
"Oh? Strange that you'd put that much thought into it, Shorty. Hehe." Gagaran teased as she chuckled good-naturedly.
"This is a very important situation. I-I am simply taking everything into account as one should. Especially after everything that has happened to us recently." Evileye said in almost pout.
"That might be so, but I too have seen the person Climb speaks of. His strength is extraordinary. He felled Zero, strongest of the Six Arms, in one blow. Perhaps we should consider finding him. Especially when most people here will be working together for the first time." Brain informed.
"Ah, you're Brain Unglaus, right? The one who serves the Princess on the recommendation of Warrior-Captain Gazef Stronoff and Climb?" Evileye asked with a somewhat uninterested tone.
"Well, I'm Gazef's subordinate, but before I'm officially sworn in I stay by the Princess' side."
"Hmph. You're much stronger and experienced than Climb, but even that isn't a guarantee of the man's strength or ability to work with others. And besides, didn't you lose to that old hag?" Evileye incredulously asked, just for Lakyus to speak over her.
"Oh, my. Didn't you lose to her too~? My apologies, Unglaus."
"It... it wasn't just her. You all were there too." Evileye quickly added, trying to save face as a light whimper was heard under her mask.
"You said you lost to Rigrit afterward. Not the rest of us." Tina said in a neutral tone.
"Rigrit? As in Rigrit Bers Caurau?" Rylen asked, in a strange showing of interest.
"You know of her?" Evileye asked, with a raised eyebrow behind her mask.
"I do. She very much influenced me to become the man I am today." Rylen replied, in a strange nostalgic tone, that got him more than a few glances from Blue Rose, some of the Espada present, and even Amelia.
"Heh. I see she influenced you into being the man you are today in more ways than one, elder." Gagaran chuckled, causing Rylen to blush slightly in reply.
"Ara, ara~! It would seem our number-one, has rather... mature tastes.~ Teeheehee." Annika playfully said as she chuckled.
"I was young. And..." Rylen tried to retort, when Amelia spoke over him in a deadpan.
"Are you seriously discussing this right now?"
"I too was young once." Rylen replied, also with a deadpan.
"I don't believe you should be judging Rylen, on his choices of partners, Amelia." Aizen calmly added.
"A... Really!?" Amelia snapped back, with narrowed eyes and head-tilt.
"Perhaps we should move on." Renner suggested, with a cough and a small blush.
"Indeed. A-Apologies." Amelia said, still looking at Aizen from the corner of her eye.
"Ahem! If I may, the man Climb suggested sounds very interesting. What kind of person is he?" Momon asked with an obviously fake cough.
"His name is Sebas."
"...Ah?"
The name sounded familiar and after some explaining from Climb, Ainz quickly realized that this 'Sebas' was in fact his Sebas Tian, Nazarick's Butler of Steel.
'That's Sebas exactly! What's going on here!?' Ainz mentally shouted.
How had this happened? Ainz couldn't fathom how Sebas could have met Climb, but now knowing this he was unsure of what to think. Perhaps the boy was one of Sebas' contacts, or perhaps he wasn't that important. Either way, he now needed to make sure he was careful with Climb. After all, risking his death would mean wasting the efforts of one of his subordinates.
"Well, I've never done battle with this 'Sebas' person before, so I can't say which of us would be the stronger." He managed to calmly say.
"Of course, Momon is the stronger." Nabe confidently stated, with Evileye nodding in agreement.
"Hahaha. Well, if my teammate says so, then there perhaps both opinions are valid one. Still, I believe he should be able to stand on equal footing with me." Momon concluded as he knuckled Nabe's head in a fashion that the others found endearing.
"That was a surprisingly mature response. Unlike my companion... her height somewhat reflects her personality." Lakyus said, with a weary sigh, as Evileye glared at her behind her mask.
"Still, that is very impressive no? Given, Momon's power." Amelia remarked, earning her a blank stare from Nabe.
"I don't try to be openly boastful, but I am aware that my power is above most." Momon said cordially.
"Then, why not try to find this man? He could be of use." Aizen suggested, looking in the direction of Momon and Nabe.
"Again, I believe we should move on. If we can find this Sebas then we will try to add him to our efforts, but time constraints don't allow that to an option." Renner said as she lightly clapped to gain everyone's attention.
"Ah, speaking of which, isn't it possible to use dark energy to attack demons and the like?" Evileye nonchalantly asked.
"W-What?" Lakyus asked in a shocked tone as her face reddened.
The topic quickly evolved into Lakyus' weapon, the demonic sword [Kilineiram]. For Lakyus herself the subject was a rather sensitive one. Especially with Evileye just bringing it up all of a sudden. For Aizen and Amelia, there was only the minimal gain of getting to see it, but their research had already told them much about it.
For Ainz under his "Momon" guise, he remembered it from Ninya's words. However, he wasn't convinced on its power to level an entire country, though he felt that it should achieve a feat close to that. From his perspective, her reddened face was caused by feelings of anger and panic that trump card had been so suddenly and casually revealed. A feeling that could he understand from his YGGDRASIL days...
Eventually, Prince Zanac Valleon Igana Ryle Vaiself and Marquis Elias Brandt Dale Raeven arrived, prompting Renner to dismiss the fighters, with only Aizen and Amelia staying behind. While Amelia exchanged pleasantries as was expected of her as one of noble blood, Aizen was left with little attention from the two arrivals. Something that was understandable given the current situation, and how he was perceived as Amelia's right hand and little else.
"Why have you decided to have them stay?" Zanac asked with curiosity, and carefully veiled suspicion.
As he spoke, Renner allowed her "mask" to drop, something that sent chills down the backs of the two arrivals, but had little effect on Aizen and Amelia.
"They are valuable to me. In this time where we have demons breathing down our necks, we have to do our best to keep at hand, all possible resources to keep the things we value safe." Renner coldly and pointedly stated.
Prince Zanac and Marquis Raeven weren't that shocked by that answer. After all, Renner had shown herself to be very protective, and focused on securing her own goal. However, Aizen and Amelia picked up on something in her phrasing of, "things".
Renner did not care for, "things". She cared for a "thing" that was Climb. They had in the past agreed on certain codes words to use while communicating. They did so when they sent letters to each other, and when Aizen couldn't isolate the room they were in for whatever reason. This seemingly casual choice of words indicated something was wrong.
Not only that, but the usage of "demons breathing down our necks", also told them something had gotten to her. After all, she had been keen on using such phrasing in case something got to her. The "demons" reference told them it might be related to this attack. To Jaldabaoth. To Momon.
"Then they must be very useful then." Zanac remarked with his interest piqued.
"Indeed, brother. The Espada bring many benefits to them that normal adventurers, and even the Blue Roses lack."
Prince Zanac simply nodded in understanding. After all, a mercenary group like the Espada were not held to the same rules as adventurers, and thus could do things and go places that not even adamantite-ranked adventurers would risk going. Perhaps he would consider using their services in the future. However, there were more pressing matters as he questioningly spoke.
"We overheard the details from the secret room... And there's one question you didn't answer. Why form the guards up into a battle line? Are they to be steppingstones?"
"No, dear brother. They are to be bait. It was rightly brought up that Jaldabaoth's army of low-ranked demons cannot be allowed to run free in the capital. Therefore, we have prepared a feeding ground for them. If they gorge themselves on the city-guards we've baited for them, their bloodlust will be dulled, no?" Renner said as she sweetly and disturbingly smiled, as if the matter were a trivial one.
"Surely there must be a better way that doesn't involve sacrificing the city-guard?" Zanac asked, carefully concealing his revulsion at the situation.
"I'm afraid that there is no other way. Or at least one that isn't as effective, correct? We are dealing with less-than-favorable conditions as it is, even if we do have the advantage of being in our own territory. Which only leaves us able to work with what we have at hand." Amelia plainly remarked, causing Renner to give her a brief clap in reply.
"Exactly~! Unless of course you have a better idea, brother?" Renner asked, but Zanac fell silent.
"You certainly are as sharp-witted and cunning as your father, Lady Amelia. Truly, we are blessed to have you and your people with us at this time." Marquis Raeven cordially said in an effort to move away from the unsavory topic.
"I appreciate your kind words. It is good to see someone is able to appreciate our contributions on this night." Amelia said with a bow and appreciative tone.
"But of course, Lady Amelia. Now then, permit me to seek clarification on another matter. Why give Climb such a dangerous task?" He asked, turning his attention to the Princess.
"For the same reason why my brother's, Amelia's, and Marquis Raeven's people are patrolling the city."
This made the two men reach the same conclusion; Renner was doing this to make herself look good in front of the people. However, this did not make much sense to them since they knew about her obsession for Climb. Meaning that surely, she wouldn't risk his life in such a way. Tilting her head slightly as she looked upon them, she seemed to see through their doubt as she continued.
"Of course, Climb has a chance of dying. If that happens, Lakyus will use her resurrection magic on him. It won't be cheap, but that expense won't be a problem. After he's been resurrected, he'll be weakened from the loss of life-energy. During that time, I'll take care of him. I'm sure no one will object to me caring for the person who died and was resurrected for following my orders to help others.~"
"I see. Thank you for clarifying. However, isn't there a chance Lakyus might perish as well?" Raeven thoughtfully asked, causing Renner to imperceptibly glance at Aizen and Amelia before calmly answering.
"A valid concern, but one that's been planned for. During the sortie's dangerous period, there will be additional people in place to protect her. The guildmaster understandably does not want someone that use the 5th-tier [Raise Dead] spell to be killed, so she agreed without hesitation. And of course, I made sure the Espada understood the value of keeping such a person under their watch." She finished as she motioned to Aizen and Amelia.
"Hehe... Everything looks to be well within your calculations, little sister." Prince Zanac remarked with a weak laugh.
"Ah, yes." Renner said with a disturbingly pleased tone.
A smile crossed her lips that made both men shiver. Even more so when they saw how it did nothing to affect Amelia's and Aizen's composure. Making them wonder just how long those two knew of Renner's hidden nature...
With time the human forces began to spread into the demon infested district. Healers and people whose roles were to aid those in need of help were kept near the illusionary walls of flame. Annika remained there as one of the main people heading up their efforts. This being justified by not only her rank in the Espada, but also by the testimony of those that saw her in action in E-Rantel, and the reveal that she was once part of the Temple of the Four Gods.
The city-guards were tasked with creating barricades and defensive lines about 150-meters away from the flame-wall, so as to help keep healers and those that needed them safe. At least, that was the plan told to them. Meanwhile, teams of iron and copper-ranked adventurers were tasked with searching the surrounding buildings for any civilians, with at least of one mythril-ranked team supervising their efforts.
Without exception they found only empty houses with broken-in windows and/or doors. Some buildings were even completely demolished. Though those paled in comparison to the location of the Count's manor, which was now a crater after Rylen's rescue of Countess Ada, and his subsequent fight with Shalltear.
The rest of the human forces headed deeper into the city. Blue Rose, 1st-Espada Rylen, and 7th-Espada Jillur spearheaded the efforts on the front so as to reduce the possibility of getting too easily overwhelmed by a surprise frontal assault.
On the rooftops, several scouts and archers kept an eye out for any flying demons on their way or towards the flame-wall. The 9th-Epsada Jaecar served as an unofficial leader for them, while Clementine followed him, waiting for the chance to pounce on anything to slake her own thirst for blood. Soon, explosions and other sounds of combat were heard in the distance, and the battle for the capital would soon begin...