Author's Note: Due to several reviews and the end of the war in the Dragon Kingdom, I think it's a good time to explain, and/or give further insight into a few things. All while trying not to spoil future plans...
First, let's start with the OCs. I've addressed this once before, but to expand on this, that was naturally a personal choice. While I do admit to having spent a lot of time developing them, I don't really regret it. At least for me it'd be perfectly possible for Aizen (or any other new character in the New World) to follow a different path from Ainz Ooal Gown, and met new people that Ainz hasn't met (the OCs). There's also the fact that new people and locations, ones that haven't showed up in canon, make the world feel larger and more alive. Because Ainz doesn't know everything about the world, and by extension neither do we. So I decided to expand upon that, since fanfiction has the freedom to do so.
Next is power levels, or just levels. With those of the Beastman Country, the reason for the handful of really powerful individuals, outside of Kaze who was an outsider and just a freak of nature (hence him chosen as a pawn by the Elder Coffin Dragon Lord), is that I imagined this version of Beastman Country rather well organized despite its inhabitants. So, with a King in place, there isn't as much fight for overall supremacy. There's mostly only fighting amongst their tribes and smaller groups, with some challenging the King from time-to-time. There's also the fact that most of the really strong beastmen were either born like that (again freaks of nature) and/or have spent time actually traveling, gaining power and knowledge most of their kind wouldn't get.
For the Espada, while I can't be as specific, I can say that naturally not all of them can go up level-100. Especially when there's a rankings between them, and I don't really plan to shift around or leave too much room for question like Bleach did. While some will improve skills and arsenals, their strength levels will remain reasonable, even as I reveal more of what they can do. Of course, this is putting Aizen aside from the conversation, as Bleach has shown us he's just insane power-wise.
Moving on, Aizen's resources includes has Las Noches, the duplicates, the bodies he's been gathering, the alliances he's been forming, items he has crafted and the Espada, but Ainz still has the Floor Guardians, Area Guardians, Nazarick's army of POPs, lots of items including WCIs, and Rubedo (a.k.a. Nazarick's Strongest Entity). So by no means would a fight between them be a done deal, for either side, not as things stand. So people saying I'm setting things up for Nazarick to get crushed are WAY off-base.
Finally, Aizen's character. Some keep saying I've changed him, or more correctly, I've had him evolve as a person, instead of being a static character. This is mostly based on what he said and did in Bleach's last arc. His final lines about "fear", "hope", and "courage" showed us a softening of his character. That there was more to him than what we knew. Now he's in a different world, completely without the people he came to know and mess with, and in a body that's now flesh, and initially at the very start, in a very vulnerable position.
So I used these to give him more emotion, give him people he values to different extents, but still at the same time a man with ambition, and room for character development, however subtle. I mean, he basically wanted to be a god before he was initially defeated, and now? Well, in his grand summit, everyone was sitting at the same table, but only one person there was really leading things, so in some respects, he's still the same top-dog we've known in the past.
And with that, we return to our regularly scheduled programming...
During the same time the battle for Asike raged and the Dragon Kingdom's future still uncertain, the Annual War between the Baharuth Empire and Re-Estize Kingdom proceeded upon the Katze Plains. However, well before either battle began, the Re-Estize army began to occupy E-Rantel for the final preparations for their clash with the Empire and their newly revealed "ally", Ainz Ooal Gown.
Gazef Stronoff, the Re-Estize Kingdom's Warrior Captain, found himself taking a sudden break from his current duties, since as he watched over the land from atop E-Rantel's high walls, he was pleasantly surprised by the presence of Rylen Tsezgerra.
"M-Master Tsezguerra."
The Warrior Captain was genuinely surprised to see the 1st-Espada. Even more so to see him on the walls. This shock was quickly pushed aside, as with a wave he dismissed the other men that were standing nearby that belonged to his Warrior Band that was gathering nearby, so that he could speak freely with the elder who had aided him in becoming who he was today.
"Gazef." Rylen cordially greeted, approaching the younger man while also overseeing the land.
"Have you come to E-Rantel on business?" Gazef asked.
"No. We've just finished with a small quest and needed a place to make a brief stop before we returned to the Holy Kingdom. I take it that you will be going to war soon?" Rylen asked with a distant tone.
"That's right."
"I'm not sure how aware you're of how information spreads, especially when the Espada have very good sources. Still, it is very much known to us that you will be facing the Magic-Caster known as Ainz Ooal Gown. His great power is also something we have heard about."
"..."
The Espada's voice was firm and stern, while strangely enough it also carried a slight and contradictory waver and weakness. Gazef noted this, but while they had known each other for some time, they were both adults and warriors. So sometimes words couldn't be softened.
"It seems the Espada are quite well informed... Yes, his power is considerable. So much so that I think that his presence will be a turning point in this annual conflict, one way or the other..."
Gazef remarked somberly while also looking into the distance, growing silent as he did. His gut instincts as a warrior have been incessantly warning him that they should not provoke the newly titled "Sorcerer King", Ainz Ooal Gown. This whole situation set him on edge, and though he did his best to not let it show, Rylen picked up on this as Gazef grew quite. Realizing this, he spoke again in a slightly more casual tone.
"Ah, right. On a related note to my presence here, I also took the time to visit your master and my old friend. Lest you wonder, I laid out the situation for him."
This took Gazef by surprise. While Rylen had helped him train and develop, Gazef's true teacher was Vesture Kloff Di Laufen. He was a former adamantite-ranked Adventurer, and Rylen's old friend. Though while Rylen had indeed managed to garner a reputation for himself, he never really took to founding his own school and teaching others as Vesture had accomplished, giving the latter's name consistent weight and relevance through the years.
Regardless, Gazef's surprise was from Rylen had seemingly gone as far as to speak with Vesture about Ainz and the current situation. Something that the Warrior Captain hadn't expected from a man with Rylen's usual disposition.
"He's fine, if you were wondering. He's as healthy and stubborn as ever. Well, at least he was happy to see me actually go out there and do things. Argh... The old warhorse will now never let me hear the end of it..."
Rylen groused with a fond smile, eliciting one from Gazef himself. He knew the two men often poked and prodded each other as old friends usually did. They were among his fond memories that accompanied the hellish training regimen and lectures he endured during those times. And yet, with experience he came to appreciate even those harsh times. The contradiction elicited a chuckle, and before he could lose himself to reminiscing, Rylen spoke again with a weary sigh.
"...He also agrees that you will do something foolish during this war."
It was a good thing that no one was around. A statement of that nature, even from the 1st-ranked Espada, might get some unwanted attention and remarks.
"Ahem! I... wouldn't call what I do foolish." Gazef calmly argued.
"Getting yourself killed, certainly does sound foolish." Rylen sharply retorted.
"Wha-? Ah. I see... The Espada truly are well informed."
Silence fell between both men after this, since neither had said anything that the other hadn't thought of or considered before. They simply had enough to make similar assumptions, even if they stood on vastly different types and sources of information.
"I do not think it is foolish. It is my duty to the King, to whom I have wished to serve and represent as his Sword." Gazef resolutely argued, eliciting another weary sigh from Rylen.
"While you likely know that you no longer stand in a league of your own Gazef, you're probably the best of Vesture's students. Even if you didn't plan on teaching, you would still be the one to best represent his teachings and improve upon it. Even for me, who has a lackluster reputation as a teacher, you represent the best outcome of those that I've actively tried to teach. To say that your death would be a loss, is an understatement."
"You humble me with your praise Master Rylen. I must apologize, if my decision comes to both of you as a disappointment. However, I made my vow to the King long ago and even now, with what might happen in this battle, I will not desert it."
"Loyalty is indeed a valuable thing. Still, I need you to tell me honestly... If the worst-case scenario does come about, would you turn back on your decision and do your best to survive?" Rylen asked, now looking at Gazef with a more serious tone.
"If the power of Ainz Ooal Gown was enough to kill me? No, I don't think I would change my mind." Gazef firmly replied.
His conviction was praiseworthy. It was to be expected at this point. More than his power as a warrior, Gazef also wielded great determination, and a nearly unmatched sense of duty and enviable selflessness. Rylen was sure that if Gazef went through the same progress he did when he became an Espada, Gazef would yield greater power, and be a great fighter for Aizen to have at his side. At the same time, Rylen and Vesture had expected for their student to not budge on his decision. After all, he held the King in a very high regard and wouldn't desert him.
If Gazef had to die fighting for the King, even against ridiculous odds, Gazef would not hesitate. This was the realization both men came to, and Rylen now confirmed, even as it pained him greatly. Yet, the fact that Gazef would not be part of the Espada didn't entirely bother Rylen. With the presence of Ainz Ooal Gown and other beings like the Dragon Lords, the fact his former student would keep things "small", was a kind of relief.
"Hmm... I didn't think you would. And I suppose you wouldn't mind if things turned out like that?"
"I would rather if it did not happen. But if I had to choose my own fate, then I wouldn't mind dying in the line of duty."
"I see... Going out on your own terms is a rare thing for people like us." Rylen sighed in acknowledgement.
It was this choice that Gazef made in making himself the King's sword, and being able to choose how he would eventually meet his fate, that also pushed Rylen to have firmly defended the idea of leaving the Warrior-Captain dead, should the time come. Few were those that got to die how they wished, and if his student was going to choose this, Rylen would not have disturbed it, not even for Aizen.
"Then, I'll leave you to this war, Gazef. I should see if my companions aren't causing anyone trouble."
Letting out a weak laugh, Rylen patted Gazef's shoulder and started to walk away, doing so while his emotions were still in control. Gazef didn't do anything to stop Rylen from leaving, but he too had a feeling that this war wasn't going to be like the others from previous years, so he thought that it would be appropriate to break his usual image, and voice his feelings regarding his teachers.
"To you and Master Laufen, thank you for everything! All men with me!"
Taking a bow towards Rylen, Gazef let out a mighty cry, that was then joined by his troop in the area, as all then showered Rylen and an absent Vesture Kloff Di Laufen with the praise the two elders deserved.
"Tch. Cheeky brat." Rylen mumbled, as he quickly wiped away a few tears.
During this time, all the Espada's members that wasn't fighting in the Dragon Kingdom, apart from Clementine and Khajit who were still out on assignment, gathered in their new headquarters in the Roble Holy Kingdom. Except for Jaecar Laporin and Elsa who stayed behind so that using his sight abilities, Jaecar could bear witness to the war at the Katze Plains.
When the time came for the battle proper, Jaecar and Elsa placed themselves on an elevated location at the edge of his 24-mile range of vision. All the while he used his ring to send back play-by-play descriptions of what was going on. For the purposes of receiving this information, Amelia, Unohana, Juno, Annika, Cayo, Jillur, Alvis, and Rylen gathered their headquarters' main meeting room, where everyone remained seated with the exceptions of Juno and Unohana.
There they silently listened, as Jaecar's words came into their minds via their rings, as he detailed what he saw. In regards to the Espada in the Dragon Kingdom, they weren't informed about anything because they did not need any distractions. Not when their job was already complex enough, although Aizen naturally was also being informed as events unfolded.
Naturally, the Espada became aware that they weren't the only ones spying on the battlefield. The 7th-Seat of the Theocracy's Black Scripture was also watching things unfold using her scrying abilities. However, no one native to this world could have anticipated the mind-shattering sequence of events that followed. Not even the Espada were prepared for a true showing of the power that the one calling himself "Ainz Ooal Gown" wielded.
Before Jaecar's sight, Ainz called upon a dark fog or miasma, which bathed the battlefield in the direction of the charging soldiers from the Kingdom. In a grand, yet simple looking act, he killed seventy-thousand in mere seconds! For a moment there was silence, before their attention was drawn by an orb that formed in the sky above the bodies of the fallen. This blackened mass then started to grow and grow into enormous proportions, before it then collapsed onto the ground, bursting open and covering the corpses in some congealed, black vitae.
As the sickening display settled, it started to gather into five distinct mounds, that then rose and as if twisted plants, split into different "branches" at the top. Standing up upon wobbly legs like a newborn calf, the newly formed creatures soon stood erect upon five hooved legs at a height of 10-meters, easily towering over all those in the battlefield.
The nightmarish image of these freaks of nature continued, as they bore several bleating mouths decorating their central mass. These creatures, foreign and abominable, befitting only the sensibilities of their mother, and others of her ilk, inspired both horror and awe. This was greatly contradicted by the cute bleating of goats that filled the air.
For the Espada their reaction was slightly different than the horrified conscripts of the Kingdom, as their was recognition from all those that heard their descriptions. Descriptions that matched the creature that Cthalpi's islanders so desperately wanted to maintain in their underwater city.
They never asked Cthalpi how she summoned such a large and powerful creature, but as they either saw or heard what Ainz managed to do, it started to become clear how their "island god" had accomplished such feat. Indeed, considering what they knew about her and her area of expertise, such things truly did fit someone like her.
As the five Dark Young shifted and squirmed in place, the Espada, Amelia, and Unohana remained in a stiff silence as they knew what was about to happen. Why Ainz had decided to make such a great display and call upon five Dark Young, when one seemed more than able to crush the Kingdom's army, was currently beyond them. However, it was very clear what was about to happen, and without fail the Dark Young advanced upon the terrified humans at speeds that matched, and even surpassed warhorses. And then...
Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat! Splat!
Never had anyone imagined that the cacophonous sound of massive creatures crushing their way through an army, the sound of blood and gore overwhelming that of helpless screams, could be so deafening. There was nothing the Kingdom's army could do, or anything for the Empire's army to do, as the Supreme Being of Nazarick simply stood upon a completely different realm of power. Even the Espada were taken aback, simply because none of them had ever been pushed into having to showcase that much of their own power.
After what seemed an eternity, there was a change, when a Dark Young carrying Ainz stopped several feet away from where Gazef stood. Jaecar couldn't listen in on their conversation from where he stood two-dozen miles away, but he indeed saw Ainz step down from the massive creature. As the two shared a conversation, Brain and Climb appeared, and Ainz even stopped all the Dark Young in their tracks. However, in the end Gazef pointed his sword towards Ainz in a gesture that all recognized as the declaration of a duel.
As soon as this was described to everyone, all eyes went to Rylen. The elder already held his hands curled into fists with his head hung low, as he feared what would happen next. Climb seemed to be the one to signal the start of this duel and then, faster than the blink of an eye, Ainz was right next to Gazef and shortly after the Warrior Captain was on the floor, dead.
Jaecar went on to describe how Ainz showed the body respect but in that moment, all eyes were on Rylen. Juno and Unohana stood between the 1st-Ranked Espada and Amelia, due to the visible dark aura emanating from the elder, his rage towards the Overlord clear as his body started shaking. His palms were now bleeding from the intensity of his clenched fists, and for the first time since any there had met him, Rylen was freely crying, even if he was making an effort not to completely break down.
"D-Dammit Gazef. Why must you be such a stubborn fool..." He sobbed between gritted teeth, barely holding his emotions in, as the 2nd-Ranked Espada Annika Masador Aenar sidled up to him in a compassionate manner.
"Sssh... There, there my friend. You said so yourself; he would choose to die as he wanted. I'm sure he was satisfied with that."
"..."
Sitting to Rylen's left, she wrapped her arms around him to help the elder feel comforted in this strange moment of weakness. Alvis also sat next to the elder, while he didn't know exactly what to do, he certainly didn't want to have it seem as if they were scared off by his deathly aura or thought any less of him because of this moment of emotion.
Rylen had tried to hold it back, but it simply went beyond what he could control. He watched as the boy that grew alongside his friend Vesture, and while not as ever-present as Gazef's true teacher, Rylen helped to nurture him enough to take pride in the evolution of his physical, mental, and swordsmanship skills. Rylen had seen Gazef take the steps that had made him the man he was, so he would not go against what Gazef had decided, but at the same time, he had always been such a stubborn brat.
In the end Gazef's death saw the end of hostilities, as Ainz stopped the advance of the Dark Young entirely upon the already crippled forces of the Kingdom. Although they could not hear the words exchanged by the Overlord with Brain and Climb, it was reasonable to assume that Ainz was giving them time to reconsider any further resistance to his claim upon E-Rantel.
At this point, it became plainly obvious whom the victor of the Annual War would be, though it was less a "war", and more a massacre. And as the battlefield started to settle, the Espada remained seated. All of them, even the older and more experienced, needed a moment to let reality of recent events sink into their minds and consider their next course of action.
Letting the Espada regain their composure, Amelia placed both hands to her face, leaned back and let out a sigh that was almost like a whimper. Naturally it got the concern of Juno and Unohana, but she promptly ignored them as her hands ran through her hair and felt relieved that neither her father nor Ada had been at the Plains. Though a great many nobles who normally attended and directed the battle would likely be dead now.
For the first time in a long time, Amelia felt the need for Aizen's presence to be able to process things. His sheer confidence, control, and charisma made it so that even something like this would have certainly been calmly put into perspective. Shifting forwards, Amelia got to her feet, an act that got everyone's attention as they seemed to think that she was going to give a speech of some kind. After all, that wasn't too farfetched since she was Aizen's right-hand.
At least this is what Amelia assumed. In reality they were more worried about how she, who wasn't even a fighter, despite having killed a few people since meeting Aizen, was handling this. Yet, while unaware that this was the Espada's true mentality, Amelia quickly started to think of what to say, and how to try and sound confident. As she herself failed to do so, suddenly and thankfully Aizen's voice came into the minds of all those present via their rings.
[Worry not. I have heard everything. I shall begin by saying how things are going well in the Dragon Kingdom. The battle is more or less decided for our side, and a new addition to our allies will be made soon enough. As for what happened at the Katze Plains, it has become clear the threat that Ainz Ooal Gown poses. A meeting with the Espada and our allies shall soon be called, but that will take some time to arrange, as some of our number will remain in the Dragon Kingdom for some time still. Until then, I ask all of you to take a 3-day break. Do as you wish, but be mindful of how critical a time this is. I'll inform the rest of the Espada of this in due time. I shall return soon.] Aizen said, in his usual calm, calculating tone.
Not the softest approach. At this point everyone knew very well that Aizen might have a softer side to him, but this usually manifested itself as a gentler way of showcasing facts, like what he had done now. Nevertheless, it was good for everyone present to know that their leader was still as composed as ever, and that he understood that the situation called for a break in every sense of the word.
The air lightened a bit and Amelia felt a weight being lifted from her shoulders. Passing her fingers through her hair, she looked at the Espada as she addressed them in a calm, professional tone.
"That's one way to put it... Well, you heard what Aizen said. You are to rest for the time being. Go look around the city, to your palaces in Las Noches, or whatever as you wish. I'll be here to tend to some paperwork." Amelia said, turning for the exit with Unohana and Juno following after.
"You two are also dismissed." She sternly added.
"But..." Juno went to say, when Amelia raised a hand.
"As per Aizen's instructions, you are dismissed and free to do as you wish for 3-days. I'll be in my office."
"..."
Being left speechless, Juno stayed behind while Unohana did as instructed, giving Amelia space to lock herself up in her office. She frankly wanted to be alone with a few drinks and let some fresh air in from a window. For her it felt like the best course of action, given how Aizen wasn't there and for the time being she wasn't exactly in the mood to go order some servant at Las Noches to service her.
News of today's events had completely shaken her after all. While at the very least Rylen had not acted up like some feared, quite the opposite he had done very well coping with Gazef's death, and that had helped to put Amelia at ease.
The Espada, Unohana having excused herself to go take care of her other duties, remained in the room, Juno now having to process the fact that Amelia had so promptly dismissed her, something that hadn't happened in a long time.
"Juno, you must understand. No one here could have imagined that this would happen. Even after all that happened, and Amelia being Aizen-sama's right-hand, but she is still a human. Even more so than we are. We can't be too harsh towards her or her wanting to take a break of her own." Annika said, with a calm and tender tone as she approached Juno.
"I am aware. Still, it just doesn't feel right to not be there at her side. That is my duty after all." Juno somberly remarked.
"Oi! We were given 3-days off. I think we should just go ahead and enjoy them." Cayo pointed out in a weary tone.
"..." Juno wanted to argue, when Annika spoke up.
"I agree. Ever since we have all been together, I really don't remember you taking that many, if any breaks from your 'duty', Juno. If we are given these opportunities to step aside from our roles as Espada and get to enjoy ourselves, we should embrace it. After all, when was the last time you went out with anyone that wasn't Amelia or Aizen? Or the last time you went to your palace in Las Noches? You're just letting that cute Ulquiorra go to waste~" Annika coquettishly pointed out with a playful chuckle.
"Grrr! You...! I have no interest in the things you are suggesting with Ulquiorra!"
"Oh, now, now my dear~. I was merely joking. I know what happened to you in the past, and while I'm unsure what your standing on intimacy is at present, I would never seriously suggest for you to do something I think you would be uncomfortable with." Annika promptly explained with a soft, compassionate smile.
"I... Ahem! Thank you. I am fine with men, but I just can't bring myself to look at them in that way... At least, not for now."
"That is perfectly fair. Still, you have been given 3 days for yourself. Amelia, and to a much lesser extent Aizen-sama, have others to protect them. If need be, nothing bad will come of you taking time off for yourself. Especially when they told us to."
"Annika is right, Juno. This battle is a turning point, no matter how we decide to react to it. The best we can do is rest and be at 100% for when we are called upon." Rylen said with a weary sigh as he got to his feet.
"Oh? You're going somewhere?" Annika asked in mild surprise.
"I will eventually go to see Vesture, but before that I'm going for a walk. Might take a ship back to the Kingdom since I have some time for myself." Rylen contemplatively replied.
"That sounds nice. Just don't do anything crazy."
"I won't. We are all here under Aizen's instructions, and believing in his vision. I wouldn't put that at risk now. And... Thank you. All of you, for the help."
"What about Jaecar and Elsa?" Alvis asked as he realized they were still out.
"I didn't contact them, but I would imagine that they found themselves a quiet spot to rest up and spend their time. I'm sure they sure need it. Especially Jaecar." Rylen replied, before giving everyone a nod and departing.
"I'm also going. I'll go to the sea and spend time with Mira." Jillur stoically announced.
"Oh? Have fun~!" Annika chuckled, before her partner departed.
"I think we'll go for a walk? Maybe find something to eat? Some women to spend time with?" Cayo suggested with a tired smirk.
"I wouldn't mind a walk. Anything else after that just really depends." Alvis tiredly said as he passed his fingers through his hair.
"Fair enough. Then, we'll also be going."
Soon enough there was only Juno and Annika in the room, the Segunda Espada stretching her limbs and then walking up to Juno, where she gave her fellow Espada a warm smile before speaking.
"I was thinking of maybe going to watch the sea. Go for a walk, get some good food, maybe some sweets. Say a little prayer for the dead. What do you think, Juno? Would you come along?" Annika suggested, taking Juno's hand.
"I... I see no issue with that."
"Perfect~! Now, do you have any clothing that isn't combat oriented?" Annika asked with a chuckle.
"I do."
"Then let's get you changed and then we can go out." Annika excitedly declared.
Tightening her hold on Juno, she all but dragged the Espada out of the room, whom lowered her head in resignation, also faintly smiled at her comrade's antics. Finding the break and the company oddly appealing. Yes, relaxing every now and then didn't sound that bad...
As all of this was taking place, the Baharuth Empire and Slane Theocracy naturally received information on the results of the two wars. Information that reached the Empire's capital much faster, due to their involvement. Although it wasn't as fast as if could have been. The nature of the events at the Katze Plains slowed the flow of information to be passed on, since everyone was understandably in a state of shock.
One of Loune Vermillion's trusted aids was the one tasked with taking a scroll summarizing the battles' events to the Emperor. The man himself was absent, due to being the Empire's first official ambassador to the newly founded Sorcerer Kingdom. The young Emperor's location was easy enough to deduce, since he sometimes reclused himself in the Imperial Gardens.
Strangely alone, he poured himself wine and pondered on his current situation and the claws that Ainz Ooal Gown had so firmly planted on the Empire. Reaching the covered area where the Emperor sat, the aid stopped at the entrance, took a quick bow and announced himself.
"Your Majesty, I bring the first report regarding the Annual War."
"I see. It worries me to see you that pale, Loune. I ask you to just get it out of the way." Jircniv remarked with a sigh, already dreading the news.
"Well, the message is brief. It simply says that Ainz Ooal Gown used an unknown spell called 'Iä! Shub-Niggurath!', killing over 60,000 in the casting. I... Ahem! It also seems to have summoned five monsters that in turn, killed perhaps 90,000 more... There is also mention of how he killed Gazef Stronoff in single-combat." Loune's aid informed, using a handkerchief to wipe some of the sweat off his brow.
Jircniv fell silent, again reminded of why he was forced with Ainz, and the undead only made things worse by giving him thousands of reminders. Even more or when the full gravity of asking Ainz to use his most powerful finally hit him. This was well beyond any expectations. Truly, the gods must hate him to have dropped such an insanely absurd situation into his lap.
Setting his half-full cup aside, he was frankly no longer in the mood for wine. The thought that a simple spell could so swiftly lead to the deaths of over a hundred-thousand, gripped his heart in an all-encompassing fear. Fear not just for himself, but for all that he had built. Indeed, this was beyond monstrous. Beyond comprehension. A few paces away from where Jircniv sat, stood Baziwood Peshmel. The de facto leader of the Four Imperial Knights did his best to keep some distance from his Emperor, who in reality had requested true solitude.
Still, Baziwood argued the fact that no matter the case the Emperor should always be guarded, to which Jircniv relented. It was known to some outside the original expedition to "Nazarick", that the young Emperor had been greatly affected by his meeting with Ainz Ooal Gown, and to a much lesser extent, was also still reeling from losing Leinas to a complete unknown, and then said unknown getting involved in the war in the Dragon Kingdom.
However, at the moment Baziwood was also reeling from the news, feeling a cold sweat coat his back, since Loune's aid spoke loud enough for him to hear. Either way, the men were all reeling from the numbers and how such a vast army was reduced to nothing in moments. Even a man of Gazef's caliber was nothing in comparison. Such things simply boggled the mind!
Placing his hands on his face, Jircniv began to laugh in a moment of hysteria, even if he tried to drown out the mad cackling it simply wouldn't stop. The situation had turned completely ridiculous and desperate. Fluder was no doubt a traitor, and now Ainz would get his way by annexing E-Rantel. As things stood, truly bending the knee felt like the best option if something didn't happen to give him some speck of hope.
"Y-Your Majesty, I also bring news of the war in the Dragon Kingdom. The battle for Asike has also concluded." Loune's aid informed with a low and careful tone.
Having already lost some semblance of grace, there was a derisive snort from Emperor Jircniv as he tried in vain to stifle the mad cackling that threatened to consume him. His body trembled without reserve, and his eyes nearly bulged out of their sockets. The aid's words barely registered, but was able to muster enough will to shut his eyes, forcing himself to calm down enough to speak in a half-steady growl, passing his hand through his now disheveled hair.
"Please don't tell me that you didn't inform me of that first because you bring me something resembling good news."
"Ah! M-My apologies Your Majesty! I felt... Ahem! The battle for Asike ended favorably for the Dragon Kingdom, with the Espada once more taking the 'fore as they have reportedly killed the ruler of the Beastman Country. Word is that Lady Leinas Rockbruise used a potent magic item to kill the monster. The report also indicates this seems to have led to the savages retreating back to their own territory. Commander Picard also stood out as a hero, having taken control of the entire army at one point and was crucial to having it move through the enemy lines and into Asike proper. As of now, it is believed that the deal established with the Dragon Kingom will be honored, including that border city that was wagered."
"W-What?... Oh... Thank the gods~!"
The genuine and almost childish sigh that replaced Jircniv's maniacal laughter and angered grunt was silently shared by Loune's aid and Baziwood, who had taken this opportunity to approach the other two men. Even with the Espada taking the major credit, to know that Picard, and by extension the Empire, was able to place itself in such a position as to lead another nation's entire army was nothing short of a blessing for morale. Even more so with the bonus of another city and its land added to their territory, no matter what shape it was in.
"To win such a bold wager... Hah! Picard certainly lives up to his family's reputation~"
Jircniv cackled, leaning forwards with a re-energized posture as his prayers seemed to have been answered, and a light being shown on the darkness gave him a modicum of hope. The aid looked at Baziwood, never having seen the Emperor in such a state. The Imperial Knight simply shugged and shook his head, silently waving him to continue.
"Ahem! Their report asks for further instructions. As of now, Dragon Kingdom's forces are dealing with small pockets of remaining beastmen, and making sure their borders are safe. The Commander wants to know what he is to do next. Especially when the celebrations for the apparent victory over the beastmen will take place within a week's time, and should go on for several days." Loune's aid added.
"He's to stay there and see what other accolades he can add to this campaign. I'm sure that the old hag will present such a capable military leader with certain honors.~ Hmm... Yes, indeed. Inform him he's going to stay there until further notice. We need all the small wins we can get." Jircniv instructed, going back to taking sips from his wine with still unsteady hands.
"If I may Your Majesty, it is surprising to hear about Leinas being able to achieve all of this." Baziwood spoke up, taking a step towards Jircniv.
"Hitherto unknown magic items, potential that was being held back by her curse, training from her fellow Espada, and whatever else is the case, I do agree that she has reached heights that I hadn't imagined... That aside is there anything else?" The Emperor added the aid.
"N-No, your Majesty. That was all."
"I see... Very well. Then let us get to work on a reply to Picard." Jircniv said, getting to his feet and presenting a much more dignified manner than before, despite subtle signs of trembling still being present.
"As you wish."
The boost in the Emperor's mood was a very welcomed change. The aid was quick to answer his liege's call to duty, with Baziwood also taking in a deep breath to put on a presentable disposition as he followed after the two men. By no means had Jircniv forgotten what has transpired, and how precarious their position was, but to have something positive to focus on gave him a much needed break and for the time being he wouldn't let such an opportunity go.
In the Slane Theocracy, a meeting was held between the Cardinals and the Captain of the Black Scripture, Marcus Septimius Amor. It also had quite an uneasy tone, since the Thousand Leagues Astrologer had yet to emerge from her room after witnessing the events at the Katze Plains. So the rest of the meeting focused on the little pieces of information and assumptions they could make based on what they knew about the situation so far for both there, and also for the battle for Asike.
The overall sentiments were that the Cardinals saw things as a failure for the Theocracy. The idiots in the Kingdom pointedly ignored their carefully worded warnings in their missive to not go to war against Ainz Ooal Gown, and because of this the meeting, while civil, had a very tense and even slightly hostile tone. So much that even the usually cordial Captain, politely excused himself as soon as an opening came. Yet, while he was allowed to leave without exchanging the expected pleasantries, he had to see another task through.
Leaving the meeting room, Marcus sighed and started walking down the corridor to find Zesshi Zetsumei. In all honesty, he was unsure of where to stand regarding the Espada, whom recently helped end the war in the Dragon Kingdom that saw their forces there be all but wiped out, save but a few exceptions. While everyone still saw the group as one comparable to the Black Scripture, outside of its Captain and Zesshi, the Cardinals had taken a step back when it came to trying to earn their favor after Aizen's recent reveal as the true leader, and the victory at Asike.
Their win at Asike was a good way to justify the desire to let the Espada be for a while longer, since the Captain understood that being a major part in a war would only further bolster their morale and make them less likely to want to ally with anyone more "official". The reveal of Sōsuke Aizen's true role in the organization, was something that the Captain did not fully understand as a motive to let the group be for the time being.
Marcus certainly understood that they knew little about the man and that would make him harder to approach, but at the same time the Espada's values certainly wouldn't change. After some thought the young Captain decided that perhaps he had yet to come to the correct conclusion, due to his age and lack of experience with such matters.
Coming back from his thoughts, Marcus turned a corner and came face-to-face with Zesshi. She was calmly leaning against a wall with her war-scythe resting at her side, arms folded, and the report given to her resting on the floor. Luckily her expression was one of calm, so Marcus imagined that the conversation would go well, all things considered.
"Good day, Zesshi. I take it you read the reports?" Marcus asked, approaching the half-elf.
"I did. They sure did make the Theocracy look bad.~" Zesshi replied with an ironic tone and chuckle.
"Well, I do agree that perhaps someone more 'focused' could have been sent to manage our forces. Although, given the mass of undead that was described in the reports, I can't say I blame them for being caught off-guard." The Captain dutifully pointed out.
"Hah~! Ah, that's a bad joke if I ever heard one. But I will admit that Labrax did well in surviving. I'll make sure to pester him for details once he gets back."
"And? What did you think of the Espada?" He cautiously asked.
The question prompted Zesshi to lower her arms and turn to face him with a wild smile on her face, which told the Captain that things may yet take a complicated turn.
"To kill the ruler of the beastman is not a bad feat. Or to cut their way through the undead. At this point the only thing I can say, is that I wouldn't mind playing with them a bit~ After all, it isn't every day that a group makes such an impact."
"Don't get your expectations too high. I doubt that any of them have a similar level of power to myself, let alone you." Marcus quickly and stoically pointed out.
"Perhaps, but even so something tells me that they would be worth playing with. Especially when they are going around doing all these big things. Makes me wonder what else they could do~"
"..."
This was not a good sign. That she had gotten so worked up by a group that shouldn't really be on her radar, made Marcus worry and give more credit to the Cardinal's concerns regarding Zesshi's current mental state. He wondered if it would have been better if he had given the vampire the Black Scripture had met near E-Rantel more credit, having worded its presence in a different way to at least give Zesshi something else to focus on, now that the vampire was missing, and presumed dead at Momon's hands. Whatever the case, he knew that at this point there was nothing else to be done outside of seeing his task through.
"About the Espada, the Cardinals wanted to make clear that we won't be allowed to interact with them. Which includes yourself. Given their exploits, I certainly agree with the merits of keeping them alive." The Captain informed, causing Zesshi's head to tilt slightly to the side.
"Oh..."
"Try to understand, Zesshi. It was decided that we would not get close to them, until we have more concrete information on their leader. They have dubbed his recent actions as 'suspicious', and felt it best to wait for the right time for us to actually interact with them." Marcus pressed, with a calm and understanding tone, which was overwhelmed as Zesshi cracked her fingers.
"I don't need the speech..." She groused, looking to a nearby window as a predatory smirk creased her lips.
"Tell me, how would they impose that upon me, if I decided to go now~?"
A weary sigh escaped the Captain's lips as she said that. It wasn't the first time Zesshi openly questioned the rules imposed upon her as one of the Theocracy's secret weapons. However, he certainly did not remember any display like this. As Zesshi looked at him with that disturbing smirk, she flooded the area with genuine bloodlust. Enough to make even his body clench up, as the added effect of the reddish aura of her [Phantasm] also started to manifest.
"Zesshi, we have discus..." Marcus went to say, when she spoke over him.
"I've already said that I don't need the speech. Just humor me, because here's what I think would go down if I did. I would attack, you would react and then we would fight for real~ At best it would last 5-minutes. Maybe less actually~" Zesshi chuckled with a childlike glee.
"..."
"Oh, no need to think about our gear and whatnot. We've sparred too often, so unless you have any new openers, I can imagine finishing things up rather quickly. Then I would either jump out the window... Or take a detour for the Cardinals, who I'm certain would be evacuating at that point. But if our fight did take 5-minutes, at best there would be four other members of the Black Scripture present and I'm willing to take that risk~"
Marcus was silent, as Zesshi gleefully went on about her plans to either murder several people of high standing in the nation, escape to follow her desires, or a combination thereof. Strangely enough he in a way, couldn't fault her for having such pent-up feelings and intentions towards those around her, even himself. While he wouldn't support any of it, or "go easy" on her if need be, he could see reason behind her words and intense bloodlust.
"...So, I would kill those that got in my way. Then probably jump out a window. That would be easier, since I can't spend all that time cutting down weaklings. After I was outside, I should find new clothes, ones not related to our artifacts, just to be safe and then rob someone for their coin. Yes, that sounds like a great idea~! I've never robbed someone before, that sounds exciting. Just... Something different to do~"
Zesshi continued talking with a strange child-like tone, that thankfully led to a less concerning conversation, as she mused what having to go on the run would be like, with things like finding an inn to stay, or finding decent gear, and also stealing such things from people as needed. With this different topic, her bloodlust also retracted, and the air started to return to normal, becoming easier to breath and relax.
"Well, as long as you understand how things are... I have nothing against you expressing your frustrations. I think that more than anyone you've earned it." Marcus said after a long sigh.
"Such composure~ As expected from our good captain." Zesshi chuckled, before taking a more serious expression.
"Then, where do they want me? Should I go to the vaults? My room? Perhaps the dungeons?"
"Nothing of the sort. As long as you understand the current situation, you are free to be as you usually are." The Captain explained.
"Oh? That is such a poor choice of words, but understood..." Zesshi said, retrieving her weapon and patting Marcus on the shoulder.
"Good talk, Marcus. See you later."
With that Zesshi departed, allowing Marcus to let out a deep breath of relief. Leaning back against the wall and passing his hands through his hair, he utilized this moment of solitude to truly regain his composure. More than anything, this particular exchange really helped to remind him of the pure power that Zesshi brought to the table, and how easily she could turn it against them.
On her end, Zesshi was far from happy about being reminded of her restrictions, but being able to see Marcus squirm was certainly a fun sight. Needless to say, it was certain that both battles had a great impact upon both nations involved, and even those not directly involved, working as another and greater showcase of the Espada, but an overshadowing display of power for the strange and supremely powerful undead Sorcerer King, Ainz Ooal Gown.