Six months had passed, and while Nazarick had make big public moves, the Espada on the outside stuck with what they did best in maintaining their secrets and taking job quests. Now war heroes by their actions in the Dragon Kingdom, more requests for their services poured in, along with spreading to new areas that they hadn't been active in before. This included building up a reputation in the southern nation of Kokka no Shinku-Kokai. Their reputation in the Holy Kingdom also especially grew, with some quests dealing with demi-humans that managed to sneak over and past the Great Wall.
Away from the public eye however, Aizen and his alliance had been pooling their resources, and in particular, securing suitable bodies to build an army that would be animated via artificial souls. Most importantly, the creation of [Wild Magic] infused items took on great importance, as they would hopefully counter the effects of the [World Class Items] in Nazarick's possession.
Of course, this was to say nothing of Aizen now officially in a relationship with Queen Calca Bessarez, even if this was known only to a few in her inner circle, including the Custodio sisters and her brother Caspond. That the Queen had come across someone whom she saw as a romantic interest was a surprise to everyone in the know. Although the sisters had to some extent been aware she had been meeting up with someone during her time in the gardens. Someone capable enough to go unnoticed for a very long time.
Remedios being the more headstrong of the two, wasn't pleased at all with this turn of events. To her, Aizen encroached upon the Queen's heart via underhanded tactics, and as a foreigner was not to be trusted. On the other hand, while Kelart held some apprehensions, it was clear that he was a capable man, and that his presence had a positive influence on Calca to become a better ruler, so for the time being Kelart decided to wait and watch.
Whatever their stance on the situation, there was little they could do when Calca decided that from time-to-time, Aizen and Amelia, since the latter was also a representative of the Espada, along with their bodyguard Juno, were to come see them at the Royal Palace. The official context for this was negotiations between the Queen and this now well-known and proven mercenary group, while in reality there was also the social undertone to it.
This meeting was to take place in a meeting chamber in the Royal Palace of moderate size, with a round table in the center, a large glass door leading to a balcony, and a cabinet with different books and a small space for drinks and tea. Currently, as they waited for their guests, Calca was sitting at the table, Kelart pouring herself and the Queen tea, while Remedios stood by the glass door looking at the garden outside with crossed arms to show her disapproval of the situation.
"Take a seat sister, they will be arriving at any moment." Kelart calmly said, taking a seat to Calca's right.
"Hmph. It leaves me uneasy, that this Juno never sits." Remedios groused, turning her attention towards the table.
"She's a bodyguard, it's normal for her to feel the need to be ready to spring into action whenever. Something I would think you would relate to." Calca curiously remarked.
"I-I know... But this is meant to be safe place, Lady Calca. At the very least she could sit as a sign of respect."
"Her standing is also much lower than yours, sister. Don't let that influence how you behave." Kelart wearily pointed out.
"Fine." Remedios said, rolling her eyes and taking a seat to Calca's left.
After a few minutes, someone gently knocked and a servant announced the arrival of their guests. The double doors opened and a trio entered the meeting room, with Aizen in the middle wearing dark shoes, white trousers, shirt, and long tailed jacket. To his right was Amelia who was wearing knee high leather boots, black pants, a white blouse and a corset, while Juno wore her greenish armor similar in design to that of Climb in the Re-Estize Kingdom, with sword hanging at her left-waist.
Upon their arrival, the sisters got to their feet as Calca remained seated, and pleasantries were exchanged, especially with each guest going to the Queen to give her a bow. Aizen in particular doing so before planting a kiss on her hand, after which with the sisters sitting to the Queen's sides. Aizen sat opposite to Calca, with Amelia to his right so that she was now facing Kelart and Juno standing opposite to Remedios.
"Like always, we appreciate the opportunity to come into your home, Your Majesty." Amelia said in a tone of respect and professionalism.
"Your availability is also much appreciated." Kelart added in a similar manner.
"Would any of you like some tea?" Juno asked, since given the private nature of the meeting that was her occasional role.
"I would like some, Juno." Aizen said.
"I would like a refill, as would Lady Calca." Kelart said with an appreciative tone and smile.
"As Juno does that, it is my understanding that you have new requests for us?" Amelia inquisitively asked.
"Indeed, we have a few things that would be similar to what has been asked of you before. However, we would like to discuss a more complex and wide-reaching contract. Something a bit more definitive, than a few requests." Kelart replied in a business-like tone.
"Oh? Perhaps you are looking for a similar arrangement like we had with the Dragon Kingdom?" Amelia mused with a slight smirk.
"Don't look so overconfident." Remedios growled, earning her a piercing gaze from Juno just as Calca raised a hand to silence her.
"Now, is not the time for this, please."
"My apologies, My Lady." Remedios contritely said with a head bow.
"Apologies." Juno added, doing the same.
"Indeed. I would like for a long-lasting contract, but one far grander in scale than the one you had with the Dragon Kingdom." Calca informed, straightening herself while looking at Aizen.
"Since everyone here 'knows' of us, I won't hold back... Well, you have helped and assisted me during all the time we've spent together, and it is far from my wish to restrict your business, especially now that it is expanding, but I would like to hire at least two of your teams to be present here and at the Great Wall." She said, blushing slightly.
"As you know it is an honor and pleasure to be of assistance, and never would I think that you wish to hinder anyone, My Lady. Now, it is true that keeping two or more teams of Espada here would be a blow to our available manpower, especially if we want to be as mobile as possible. There are also concerns regarding the fact that the Great Wall isn't the safest of places..." Aizen started to say, when Remedios sarcastically spoke up.
"Certainly not as dangerous as a warzone."
"Indeed. However, it adds to the risk and required payment." He calmly explained.
"Of course. I should mention that this idea is just preliminary. If there isn't an agreement now, there would time to negotiate and formalize a contract at a later date, as your concerns are understandable. Given the long-term nature of the contract I propose, payment would be delivered in portions, along with certain benefits to make-up for the 'inconvenience'." Calca softly pointed out.
"A wise way to go about it, Your Majesty. Then, perhaps we should agree to continue this conversation at a later date?" Aizen said with a smile.
"So, you agree, at least at a surface level, to the proposal?"
"Indeed. You are a lady of her word, so I am certain that you will see it through when the time come." He coolly replied, causing her to blush as she spoke.
"You flatter me overmuch~ Uhm... I have also been thinking of other amenities that would be fitting for this 'arrangement'. Especially since I would be using the Espada to help mend our problems... So with that in mind I was considering giving you some kind of official stance within our government, Aizen."
"..."
Only Kelart wasn't taken by surprise as she was aware of the plan to have this offer extended to Aizen, as her Queen had privately discussed it with her to get her opinion and how to go about it. Juno also didn't react, because while she was stunned, she did her best to keep her calm demeanor as she should as a bodyguard.
Amelia was visibly taken aback, looking between Calca and then Aizen, who was also unfazed. Her surprise due to Aizen not mentioning to expect this to happen. While she would have imagined something like this to happen, she certainly didn't expect it this soon. Remedios was far more vocal.
"Please reconsider, Lady Calca! This man's an outsider and doing no more than what's expected of him as a leader of a mercenary band! He does not deserve a standing within our ranks."
"You should know better than to speak of Aizen-sama that way." Juno growled, starring down White of Nine Colors and leader of the Paladin Order.
"Again, this is not the time." Calca said, lightly tapping the table and again earning herself both women's apologies.
"B-But, Lady Calca..." Remedios tried to press, when Kelart spoke up.
"Sister, be silent as your Queen speaks." Kelart firmly said, stunning Remedios into silence with her wording.
"Again, I have yet to decide on what this position would be exactly since you already do a lot of good work for the people as head of the Espada, but it is my intention to give you a title of some kind to facilitate things and make it worthwhile. It's a..." Calca went to say already blushing when Aizen softly spoke over her.
"It is a kindness that if you think me worthy of, I will gladly take. Something that I will wield to the best of my abilities, for our mutual benefit."
"Ahem... Right." She mumbled, further blushing.
The conversation continued only for a short while longer, since Calca's propositions were still in an early stage, and depended on the Espada being onboard or not, which they were much to her relief. When the meeting was over, final pleasantries were exchanged, and as Amelia and Juno moved towards the door, Calca went to meet Aizen halfway between the exit and table.
"You look lovely as always, my dear." Aizen smoothly said, caressing Calca's face.
"Thank you, I do my best. It's good to see you and I hope that if this deal goes well, we can see more of each other, beloved." She lovingly said.
"But let's not get to ahead of ourselves, since you had mentioned what others might think."
"I know and I've been thinking, it's silly to let such things get in the way. I want to spend more time with you, and I am willing to let more people know about us, no matter what they say." Calca said in a low yet passionate voice.
"That's understandable and if that is what you wish, I shall very much accept it."
"Thank you."
Exchanging a quick kiss, the duo went their separate ways and Aizen's group went back to their headquarters, with Aizen and Amelia knowing that once more things were going very well, and the Queen was responding very well to the Shinigami's affection and help. Indeed, it was all going according to plan.
The rest of their day continued as usual, that was until the evening. Under the cover of night, the Espada's headquarters was suddenly roused when Gustav Montagnés, Vice-Captain of the Paladin Order under Remedios, came to speak with the head of the Espada on a clearly urgent and unnerving matter. Despite his pleas for swiftness he was made to briefly wait in their main office, with Juno standing with him. Unohana went about waking up Amelia and calling Aizen back from Las Noches, and after a few minutes Gustav was greeted in the office by the pair.
"Finally! You must come with me at once! We have already wasted enough time." Gustav hurriedly said.
"Go where and for what?" Aizen dryly asked.
"The Great Wall has fallen! From what we know it was broken open and now Jaldabaoth is leading an army of demi-humans into our lands as we speak!"
"You should have led with that. I'll be going to where you need me. Juno stay here and call for Carmyn. Amelia, send word out to everyone else."
Honestly Gustav was thrown off by how calm the man seemed, but he knew that right now wasn't the time to think on such things. Especially when they had a long trip from Rimun back to the Capital. Something Gustav had overcome since Kelart could use [Teleportation] to get him there. One of the spells that she had that was kept secret to only a few.
"What do we need Carmyn for? We have to go." Gustav argued in agitation.
"I doubt the Great Wall fell that long ago from how you're acting. No, it is probably a recent development, and you came here through magical means. Carmyn can send us back to the capital the same way." Aizen calmly replied.
"I-I don't..." The Paladin tried to argue, when Aizen lifted a hand to silence him.
"We don't need to discuss this right now. Just know that we will be in the capital shortly."
"I... Right... And how can you be so calm?" Gustav asked, clearly bewildered by Aizen's demeanor.
"This is not the first time the Espada have delt with a crisis. After all, we were there when the attack on the Re-Estize Kingdom capital occurred. The same applies to their experience with demi-humans."
"But I... That's not what I meant. I understand that about them, but you..." Gustav went to say, when Aizen chuckled.
"I am their leader. I would be remiss in being less than those who labor in my behalf."
Shortly after Carmyn appeared, having been roused with Inon following, and she having him, Aizen, and Gustav gather around her, as she used [Teleportation] to transport them to the capital, close to the Royal Palace. Once there, the pair of Espada used a better version of the spell to return to their headquarters, even if Gustav was made to think otherwise, as both him and Aizen entered the palace.
From what Aizen could deduce, news was yet to be made widespread. Probably an attempt to control panic for the moment, with Gustav leading the way into the palace and into a small office where the Custodio sisters currently were. Its windows had been draped, with everything else haphazardly pushed aside so that only a large table was at the center of the room with a map of Roble's northern half upon it, and the two sisters talking as they motioned to it.
The arrival of Aizen was greeted with a visible displeasure from Remedios, who crossed her arms as if telling him to get on with it. Kelart on the other hand sighed and motioned for him to approach as Gustav remained by the entrance, since for the moment only a few would be allowed inside.
"How are you two here so early?" Remedios growled in equal parts displeasure and surprise.
"Hmm... I see. I take it that rumors of one of the Espada being able to use [Teleportation] weren't false after all." Kelart openly mused to subtly silence her sister and move the conversation along simultaneously.
"Likewise, Lady Kelart." Aizen remarked with a smile, stopping next to the table.
"Indeed. Now, I'm sure you can imagine why you were called here."
"I take it that the Espada's experience with demons and demi-humans is necessary."
"Yes, much like how your people aided the Re-Estize Kingdom and the war in the Dragon Kingdom, we request your assistance now. Payment can be discussed later." Kelart pointed out.
"If you people need to be paid for something like this." Remedios mused in open contempt.
"I agree with Lady Kelart. Payment can be discussed after. The nation we call home is in a crisis, so certain liberties can be made with the contract. Fortunately, most Espada are still currently in the Roble Holy Kingdom, with word already being sent to recall those that are elsewhere and may be able to return. I imagine we still have some time to gather our forces." Aizen remarked with a cool, calm confidence that impressed Kelart, and unnerved Remedios.
"Indeed. Your recommendations to Her Majesty for an 'early warning system' using [Message] bore fruit, as our scouts sent the alarm as the Wall broke open. For now, there are many small villages and cities to 'occupy' the enemy's attention, which will give us time to gather our standing army and send word of the disaster to the population, so we can then ready our emergency conscription." Kelart firmly informed.
"What about the Adventurers?" Aizen asked as he briefly scanned the map.
"They also factor into the 'conscripts', since in a case of a calamity like this, they have to act no matter what their usual standing is." She professionally replied.
"Good. Is there anyone else that would be willing to help?"
"No... We are an isolated nation after all, so there isn't anyone else. At most, word will be sent to the south, but as it stands they will probably not act as it's not an immediate problem for them." Kelart replied with a disappointed sigh.
"Bah! They're fools and would only get in our way. Same goes for the Espada and Adventurers. We should gather our forces and take a stand at Kalinsha. They've been readying themselves for this for years and once we're ready no demon will take us by surprise." Remedios spitefully said.
"While I agree with Kalinsha, it would be foolish to ignore any other aid that may come to us." Kelart countered.
"They are outsiders and unused to working with our forces. They will get in the way." Remedios argued back.
"The Espada have fought alongside armies before. Armies that belonged to more than one nation, and have led said armies into battle and victory. There is no wish to take any of your authority, Lady Remedios, but as I have already agreed to help, it would be unwise turn your back on us so quickly." Aizen calmly retorted, his wording taking her by surprise.
"I was saying that you do not belong on the frontlines. That's our job. My job."
"His people are skilled and experienced, and will do much to bolster our forces. And as I was saying, what we currently have in the north is all we have. Along with whatever Espada are able to come from their assignments outside of our lands." Kelart firmly interjected.
In that moment the room's door was opened and Queen Calca Bessarez made entered, wearing her usual gown with her hair hanging freely, as she marched towards the table, looking a bit pale and tired. She was greeted by all there with a bow, and decided to place herself to Aizen's right as she looked over the table and let out a weary sigh as she spoke.
"An early speech for the masses is ready and waiting for you to review it, Kelart. As per one of Aizen's proposals, word has been sent to Green of Nine Colors, Ran Tsu An Rin. He will send our plea to his people."
"Feh! They'll never come." Remedios indignantly said.
"Most likely, but I had to try. Beloved, I am relieved to see you here so soon." Calca sighed, taking Aizen's hand in hers.
"I couldn't delay my response during this crisis, and I am glad that my recommendations have been proving useful to you. We were just now discussing how we might be of use." Aizen said with a smile, planting a quick kiss on her lips as she finished.
"Good~. I was thinking, and if I'm not wrong, Kalinsha would be the best place to make a stand, correct?" Calca asked, now visibly more uplifted.
"That is exactly right, Lady Calca. I am currently considering that my sister and I should be there, along with our main forces and the Espada." Kelart dutifully replied.
"What about myself?"
"I would prefer if you stayed behind."
"Agreed." Remedios added, amusing Aizen with the first sign of solidity the sisters have shown since his arrival.
"No. I want to be there and face this threat to my people."
"But it is far too dangerous." Remedios argued, not hold back her worry.
"Agreed. And if something was to happen, the country would be thrown into further chaos." Kelart added in a more controlled manner.
"If I may, while I do not want to see Her Majesty in any danger, if she must be there, my Espada can be used as her personal guard. Especially if all of them will be participating." Aizen confidently said.
"Exactly. I will be safe, so please put your worries at ease. Also Kelart, we have to look over the plans for refugees. More than likely their numbers will be relatively few, but we should have people tend to that and any supply lines that could be of use to ease our people's suffering. I do not like using our own villages and settlements to slow our enemy's advance, so we must do something to ease their suffering whenever possible." Calca said, feeling energized with Aizen's support.
"Yes, I have already been thinking of that, but we can see to that as soon as we are done here."
"Very well. In that case the two of us can tend to that and other matters. Remedios, I need you to send word to the Paladin Order and our commanders so they can begin to gather their forces. Aizen, you are here so I can show you some things about our 'normal' strategy, but would you prefer to go back to Rimun after that to manage the Espada?" The Queen asked.
"Thank you, but there is no need for that. Amelia is more than capable of doing that herself, and she'll get as much ready as we can muster."
With plans of action established, Remedios went about her tasks, while Aizen ended up going along with Calca and Kelart to accompany them as they saw their tasks through. It was here that due to the coming invasion, Calca became a bit less worried about what people might think and started to show more affection towards Aizen, leading to people noticing them and rumors starting to spread. For Aizen, there was only a calm smile as events proceeded to unfold.
The Green of the Nine Colors Ran Tsu An Rin, having received the request he was to deliver to his people for aid in the upcoming invasion, made his way through a river that passed near the capital to the sea to deliver said message. However, as he was doing so, his path was blocked by the somewhat merfolk-like and familiar form of Jillur of the Espada, who had placed himself in the river to intercept him, doing so without any cloak hiding his inhuman features.
The reason he knew of Jillur was because he heard of the man who had tamed the Kraken that threatened his people, and now walked among them. The man who he recently had learned to be an Espada, yet he had kept this to himself and his own as was expected of him. So to see this man there he knew that it meant something, so stopping his advance upon the water he went to the side and out of the river, just to be surprised to see a human in Annika Masador Aenar.
"Hello there~" The Segunda Espada sweetly greeted.
"What is the meaning of this?" Ran sternly asked, looking around as Jillur emerged from the water.
"First, we would like to express our gratitude for having kept certain things secret that are known to your people, but not to the Roble Holy Kingdom." Annika said with a polite bow.
"We can also imagine what you are tasked with doing." Jillur stoically added.
"My role is that of a simple messenger." Ran cautiously replied.
"We know. However, you're aware of who that man is. And you are aware of what his connection to your people is. He will go with you to also present our case, as will the Sea Dragon." Annika informed with a kindly smile.
Indeed, despite Aizen being clear on how he wanted to keep his allies out of trouble as it were, the Sea Dragon having little to contribute to outside of the area he commanded and the Merfolk, insisted on helping if something was to happen to the Roble Holy Kingdom.
"If that is so, why are you addressing me?" Ran asked in uncertainty.
"Because your own backing of the humans you serve would also be appreciated." Annika explained, still smiling.
"Then you have no reason to worry. I cannot speak for my people, but I do not wish death on any of those I know here."
"Good. That makes it easier. We leave now to deliver your message." Jillur said.
"Good luck you two~" Annika said with a friendly wave, as both men vanished into the water.
A few days passed, and the Roble Holy Kingdom finished gathering its armies. The Espada also gathered and were in full force to back the locals, along with Fracción and duplicates, with the Queen's intention being for these to take part in the front that would go to Kalinsha. However, before this happened Ran returned to the capital and made his way to a personal audience with the Queen, going to the same office where she, Kelart, and Aizen were busy strategizing.
"I apologize for the sudden appearance Your Majesty, but I bring word from my people and the noble Sea Dragon." Ran resolutely informed.
"...!"
Calca and Kelart were speechless, because they did not honestly expect to see him before it was too late. Nor did they know expect a reply to come, and they most certainly did not expect said reply to have word from the Sea Dragon himself. Aizen was unfazed, since he knew what was coming beforehand, but none noticed his calm due to their own shock.
"After great deliberation and with the backing of the Sea Dragon, my people have agreed to answer your call for aid. For this, along with the personal assistance of the Sea Dragon, over 2,000 were pledged to the cause, to use as you see fit." Ran proudly announced, breaking the pair of women from their stupor.
"By... By the gods! That is among the best pieces of news I've heard in days. Thank you, Ran Tsu An Rin." Calca said with clear signs of holding back her emotions.
"I am here to serve and honor the title of Green given me." Ran said with a bow.
"In that case, perhaps we could take an alternative approach to simply moving most of our forces to Kalinsha." Aizen suggested, getting the attention of those present.
"Ahem! What do you mean?" Kelart asked, swiftly composing herself.
"With these additional forces, and the Sea Dragon with them, along with what I have managed to gather from the Espada, perhaps it would be possible to keep the Merfolk forces, some of mine, and some of yours some distance away from the city. Move the rest into it and in case something comes to pass, we call them in as a reserve. This will hopefully catch the enemy in a pincer attack should the need arise." Aizen analytically suggested.
"Hm... Well, the extra forces would allow us to spread ours out to some extent." Kelart mused as she thoughtfully cradled her chin with right thumb and index-finger.
"It would take some effort to hide our non-human combatants, but it could work in case things do go back. The Espada would also be split up, correct?" Calca inquisitively asked Aizen.
"Indeed."
"There are some places near the city that could be used to hide the new additions to our forces and even some of our own to an extent. The Merfolk and the Sea Dragon could use the river to come deeper inland, correct?" Kelart asked in full composure, looking at Ran.
"Correct. It should be deep enough to mask their approach."
"So knowing that, indeed I can see this idea working. It also gives us something to fall back on if the city falls and our forces are pushed back."
"Let's hope that does not happen. But indeed, I think that will benefit us." Calca said as she gently ran her slender, immaculate fingers over the map, hoping that this new development will be what it takes to save her country and people.
Two days later they arrived in Kalinsha, with several camps set up some distance away, making use of existing structures and villages to house some of the Merfolk forces downriver. The Sea Dragon remained in his true form downriver to maximize his combat prowess as the Kingdom's army and some of the Espada gathered. These camps were set up to obscure as much of what was hidden and precautions were taken to ensure that human smells were predominant to hide the non-humans present from any of the hostile demi-humans' keen senses.
Within this secondary force outside the city of Kalinsha, Aizen had assigned Espadas Alvis' and Cayo's group to be there, along with the duplicate of Yoruichi and their Fracción in Arisuke and Vali. With them were Annika and Jillur, and Carmyn and Inon. This meant that with the main force placed in and around the city, they had Nazz and Leinas, and Rylen and Jaecar, along with Elsa, Clementine, and Khajiit.
Among the forces in the city were Queen Calca and the Custodio sisters. Aizen was left behind since he wasn't seen as a fighter, and while the exclusion of Juno from this was seen as odd, he clarified that it was normal for her in her duties as personal bodyguard to him and Amelia. With their preparations nearing completion, they focused on the upcoming battle.
From their latest reconnaissance, the enemy was still some distance from the city, which served as a grim reminder of how their strategy of sacrificing villages and settlements to slow the enemy's advance worked to buy them time. Though none were sure if this cold and pragmatic stratagem was a result of one of Aizen's many contributions to the Queen, none could deny its effectiveness.
As for the Holy Queen herself, she, her Twin Wings, Nazz as representative of the Espada, and a few others from the military setup a meeting on the domed roof of a central building in the city, with the goal of hopefully gaining enemy's attention once they made their way into the city and not on the secondary force behind it.
This meeting was held in a place that provided many vantage points to the city and the areas immediately surrounding them. Much to their surprise, this allowed them to see over the horizon a loud and savage hoard of demi-humans. Above them several flapping forms of both demi-humans and demonic beings were seen. This mass of violence rushing at full speed to clash with the army's defensive positions around the city took them by surprise.
"I can't believe that they have reached us so soon." Calca gasped, rising from her seat next to the round meeting table to see the forms in the horizon.
"Worry not, Your Majesty. Our men will hold them back." One of the members of the military said, with a reassuring tone.
"As he says, let our forces and Paladins handle it. We should move from here." Kelart firmly said.
"We'll see you to a more secure location." Nazz resolutely said, getting up from his seat.
"You're all correct. Now is not the time for doubt. Let us move." The Queen commanded.
From there, those taking part in repelling the surprise attack made for the frontlines, while a small contingent of Paladins accompanied Nazz, Kelart, Remedios and Calca made their way through the city. Around this time, the human war-machines began to punish the demi-human forces, with Rylen, Leinas, and Clementine joining the forces outside the gates, as the rest stayed behind for support.
Around the same time, a storm cloud formed above the city, which served only to hide a force of Gazer Devils and Imps that soon started to descend into the city and cause additional chaos. Yet even these were just cover for the one that had taken the initiative to weaken the humans from within and let the demi-humans handle the rest in a pincer maneuver of their own. This being the masked demon Jaldabaoth, whose true identity was Demiurge of Nazarick.
Placing himself some distance above smaller buildings in the city, his wings kept him afloat like a boot above an anthill as the "Demon Emperor" looked around and took in the air, unsurprised by what he felt. Indeed, this city was brimming with morale despite the situation. Perhaps it was because of the fortified nature of the city, or due to the presence of the Queen and her Twin Wings, or perhaps the presence of the war heroes in the Espada?
It was all very amusing and expected, as the overconfidence of humans usually tended to be, made it all the more entertaining to crush. Looking into the horizon his senses could pick-up on another force in the distance, perhaps they had decided to keep a secondary force hidden to try and ambush the enemy or have a cushion in place in case the city fell.
Whatever the case, they were doing a very sloppy work at hiding them, but at least he couldn't exactly tell what these forces were, from where he currently was, so they did manage that much. Demiurge wondered if any of this was an idea put forth by the Espada, since they were experienced in driving back the beastmen in the Dragon Kingdom.
Not that any of it would matter either way. He certainly wasn't lacking for possible victims, and as he commanded demons to attack certain spots in the city, or threw a spell to maim some of their number to slow them down and drain their MP and resources tending to the wounded, Demiurge pondered on who to go after first.
After a few seconds of consideration, he was certain going for the Queen's entourage would provide the most important of victims. Though perhaps he should show that he wasn't foolish enough to miss a second army? Unfortunately, his Demi-human Alliance wasn't able to split off to attack a force beyond the wall. With a wave he commanded Evil Lord Wrath still hidden in the clouds to summon a small force of Gazer Devils and a Scale Demons to deal with them.
The sudden appearance of demons over the city, no matter how strong they actually were, made for a rather dangerous inconvenience. Especially for the group escorting Calca, because even if the sisters and Nazz were there, each instance of combat slowed their progress. These seconds of interruption pilling up until they arrived at a small square and the passage that they were using was suddenly blocked as a sizable portion of a building fell upon it. Soon the sound of that crash was then replaced by a subtle, malicious chuckle.
"Well, well... Isn't this interesting?" Jaldabaoth mused, as he descended from the sky.
"No one make any sudden moves." Nazz warned in a low tone, as the group gathered around Calca.
"Please, I am not an animal. I don't attack based on movement. But I do apologize for the slight inconvenience. It would seem that my finger slipped." The masked demon remarked with thinly veiled sarcasm, motioning to the blocked passage as his feet touched the ground.
"Stay back! Nazz and everyone else protect Her Majesty. I'll handle this fiend myself." Remedios commandingly growled, taking a step forward as she drew her blade.
"What is this rush for? I'm magnanimous, so I do not mind a bit of conversation. Unless of course everyone here is in that much of a hurry to die." Jaldabaoth said in mock civility as he dusted off his apparel.
"Silence demon! I'll..." Remedios continued, when Calca suddenly spoke up.
"If he is truly open to a conversation, then stay back Remedios." Queen Calca resolutely interjected.
"B-But My Lady, this thing is a demon and a liar."
"Come now, I am not without reason. I won't attack unless provoked. Nor am I in the business of wasting my time without cause." Jaldabaoth remarked in a pitying tone and posture.
"Heed my command, Remedios. Stay back!" Calca sternly commanded in a forceful display that shook most present by surprise.
"A…As you wish."
Remedios relented, returning to her Queen's side, even if this situation didn't sit well with her at all. Demons were treacherous creatures and this one in particular seemed cunning enough to weave any twisted plot to get his way. With Nazz again at the front, Calca just placed herself where her eyes could fully meet the demon, and gulping as she resolved herself to speak.
"Now then, Demon Emperor Jaldabaoth. I have some things to ask you. Why have you come here? If you wish to trample this country, why not move with the demi-human army away from the fortress? Or could it be..."
"You need say no more. I can imagine what you wish to say, and sadly it would seem that you are mistaken. The reason I have come here alone is not to parley with you." He retorted with a disappointed sigh, surprising those present much to his amusement.
"I come before you for two simple reasons. First, I imagine that the death of the 'Holy Queen', her Twin Wings, and a member of the famed Espada at my hands would bring about greater despair than your deaths at the hands of my army. Second, I wish to correct my mistake from my invasion on the Re-Estize Kingdom, and confirm that there were no warriors here capable of matching me." The demon added, scanning the group.
"You might be surprised. There may be someone like that." Calca calmly remarked, earning her a dry laugh.
"I doubt it. While the morale in this city is surprising... No, I would dare to say that it is bursting at the seams, but I doubt that there is anyone here capable of contending with me, Your Majesty. No, in my eyes, yours are little more than lambs, come to meet the slaughter." He said with a subtle, yet still intense snarl, sending a chill down her back.
"That's enough. If you didn't come to parley, you can start your business with me." Nazz boldly declared, stepping away from his group so that he stood between them and the demon.
"Ah, such empty bravado, and at an all-time high to boot. Very well, I shall humor you, Espada." Jaldabaoth said with a weary sigh and head-tilt.
"Wha-?! Don't be foolish. I'm the one that will kill him!" Remedios protested through gritted teeth.
"Silence! Learn from my mistakes. For now, all of you focus on keeping your Queen alive." Nazz commandingly rebuked, sending a chill down a stunned Remedios' back.
Unsheathing his blade, Nazz started to march towards the waiting demon, who humored him by turning his fingers into claws with a [Skill]. Nazz for his part was unsure of how proceed. He knew thanks to Cthalpi's information that this was Demiurge, one of Nazarick's Floor Guardians. While he was the second weakest among their number, compared to everyone else from Roble, Demiurge was akin to a walking calamity.
Ensuring no casualties in the crossfire would be difficult enough in this small area. A task made all the more challenging by the fact that he had yet to receive the order to stop holding back until Aizen was ready to enact his own plans. Still, no matter how cautious he was about finally engaging with someone from Nazarick, handicap or no, Nazz wasn't going to let it slow him down. He had a job to do, and now a lover and three beautiful children to return to...
"Aaaaaargh!"
Unleashing a mighty war cry, Nazz charged at the demon, bringing his blade down on him for a downward slash, that Jaldabaoth easily sidestepped and replied with an upward clawing motion that Nazz reacted by quickly raising his blade up, just for the demon to use his other hand to stop the blade mid-blow and waving his index-finger in a "no" gesture with his free hand.
Pulling himself back, Nazz spun and landed a clean horizontal slash on the demon, who used his claws to block the blow and was sent flying into a nearby building. Ramming his blade into the ground, the Espada waited as he knew that his last hit had done nothing. Especially since neither of them were actually trying. It was also at this time that a communication came to him via his ring.
[We're moving towards the city. I know that it's early, but we're being attacked by demons, so the commanders have decided to move forward and try to at least intimidate the demi-humans with the Sea Dragon and the Merfolk.] Annika informed.
[Hmph. And I'm having to deal with the 'Demon Emperor'.] Nazz dryly remarked, getting a gasp in return.
[So soon?]
[Indeed. Depending on how this goes, I may just give the order soon, so keep advancing until then. After... well you know.]
[Oh, indeed~] Annika chuckled, ending the message.
"Did you land a worthwhile blow?"
The one to speak up was Remedios, who approached Nazz with two Paladins that were escorting the group, Calca and Kelart still standing at a distance with the rest of them, and all of them with hopeful expressions on their faces.
"No. Now stand back, he's..." Nazz tried to explain, just to be curtly cut-off by Remedios.
"Then! I'll do it myself."
However, as Remedios spoke the rest of the building began to fall on the demon and a malicious chuckle began to come from under the debris.
"It's been a while, since I've taken a blow like that.~"
As the rest of the building collapsed, a mass of flames erupted from it, the cobblestone ground cracked and suddenly all debris was sent flying in all directions. The Paladins, Remedios, and Kelart were quick to return to the Queen's side, assisting her in blocking the oncoming debris and flames, while Nazz simply stood in place like a sentinal. Emerging before them was a fiery, massive figure, much larger than the Espada, with horns and exuding a purely savage aura of strength that wasn't there before.
"Now, let's get serious, shall we?" The monster growled, with a much deeper and hateful tone.
"Who are you!?" Remedios indignantly growled.
"I am Jaldabaoth, and you all have just earned yourselves a painful execution. You have my promise that it won't be quick!"
"Bring it." Nazz sternly retorted.
While everyone, even Remedios was visibly shaken by the sudden transformation, Nazz was keen enough to have noticed that some kind of swap had happened and despite appearances, whatever stood before them was of a lower level. However, this didn't mean that it's attack potency or danger to those of Roble was decreased. Indeed, if its appearance and aura was anything to go on, it felt like now was time to see Aizen's orders through.
[Attention, Espada. Wherever you are, whatever you're doing, the time has come. We are Aizen-sama's blades, and now is the time to reveal our true colors. Permission to fight at full capacity is granted. Espada... ATTACK!]
Sending out his orders, Nazz allowed his power to flow, a dark purple aura briefly forming around him, as eyes seemed to flash under his armor, and the air shifting slightly before the aura dissipated and it was as if the avatar took a breath.
"Fine. I'll start with you." The demon proclaimed.
"Everyone stand back."
Marching towards Nazz, the demon, which was in actuality a summoned version of Evil Lord Wrath, clenched his right-hand into a solid and fiery fist, unleashing an attack promised death upon the Espada who, just in the final moment, pulled his blade from the ground and slashed it upwards, slicing into the fist.
For a moment it was as if time had stopped as all human eyes at the scene, Calca's, Remedios', Kelart's, the Paladins', and even approaching Adventurers were wide and in silent awe as the blade had struck true. The massive form of what they believed to be Jaldabaoth staggered back, his mighty attack stopped cold as it let out an angered roar that echoed through the city.
"You..." Wrath growled with widened, shocked eyes, as the fires that engulfed his body intensified.
"I am Nazz of the Espada. And you better be ready if you wish to leave this place with your foul carcass intact!"
"...!"
Wrath tried to utter a threat, when suddenly Nazz's blade passed in blinding speeds through his stomach, opening a shallow but large wound. This only served to further enrage the demon who wildly threw another punch. It appeared to have made contact, but Nazz was fast enough to not only block with his sword, but to coat it with his corrosive energy. So while his avatar was sent flying back, the demon cried out in pain as his right-hand's fingers partially dissolved.
"Everyone get back! That's an order!"
"Grraaaaagh! DIE! [Napalm]!"
There was no time to consider anything, as Kelart's grasp of magic told her that this spell was something much more than she was able to do or fathom, so she ordered everyone to do as they were told and move back from the fight. Even Remedios, after some resistance was made to follow after her focus returned to Calca's well-being, and her warrior's instincts screaming at her of the danger before them.
As the battles continued Demiurge, still in his masked persona was near the Great Wall, standing in the middle of a small demi-human and demonic force that stood guard over the opening he made in the structure. As he stood there, he used a [Mirror of Remote Viewing] to keep an eye on the battle, and not since his master's fight against a brainwashed Shalltear was he ever this flabbergasted.
Not only did he witness Wrath struggling against Nazz, but he also saw the other Espada quite literally blowing holes into his demi-human and demonic hordes. In addition, he saw the ones known as Annika and Carmyn moving around the battlefield, teleporting in what he assumed to be portions of this second army to face his, which included Merfolk and a Dragon!
Under his mask, Demiurge was speechless. This was above and beyond what their information and theories regarding the Espada had implied. This was far too much power for them to have, and yet they were unfazed by the numbers of the Demi-Human Alliance. Then, before he could mull further on this shocking turn of events, it happened.
A chill was sent down the Floor Guardian's spine as the mirror suddenly cracked, and a weight briefly fell upon him as the very air became thick and viscous. It was certain it would have been suffocating for nearly any other creature. The instant that occurred to him, he turned to find his nearby demi-humans and the demons dying from this phenomenon. Then suddenly, there was a presence behind him.
Demiurge turned to face the figure and instinctively took a rather combative posture, just to see a few feet away from him the face of the Espada's leader, Aizen. The man was wearing mostly white with black trim, and had a katana sheathed on his side. He held a calm expression, something that further confused and intrigued Demiurge, as it become clear that the Espada's forces weren't the only ones hiding secrets.
"I believe that we haven't been introduced. My name is Aizen. Sōsuke Aizen."
"No, I don't believe I've had the pleasure. I'm J… Seven, you may call me Seven." Demiurge plainly replied, assuming that this man was aware of his switch with Wrath to some extent.
"A pleasure. I assumed that you are familiar with my Espada and I. At least to an extent of course. It must have been quite the surprise." Aizen mused with a friendly, his eyes looking over Demiurge.
"Indeed. It's not just any human nation that would be that lucky. Indeed, that was quite the long con you pulled, but I also assume that you have a reason to show your hand like this."
"Perhaps with time you would be able to piece things together, but for now I would like to offer something to you, Seven."
As Aizen spoke, he activated his Perfect Hypnosis and began walking to Demiurge's right, who was able to follow the Shinigami, clearly unfazed by it. Yet, this was what Aizen wanted to test and see. This meant that the demon currently possessed a [World Class Item], confirming a theory he had, ever since learning that certain [Wild Magic] spells could be blocked by them, and since it and Kidō-based powers had similarities, it was a worthwhile test.
"That being?"
"Your army is doomed, even if it doesn't know it. You however, are free to escape on one condition." Aizen declared with a smirk that frankly irritated the Floor Guardian.
"Again, that being?" Demiurge said, doing his best to stay calm and keep a civil tone.
"You take word to your master, that I wish to parley. Do this and call back the demons, and you can fly away."
Demiurge's demeanor suddenly shifted, from annoyance to a focused rage. He did not know what Aizen meant by "master", but the man's confidence bothered him since no one should speak to him with that tone. It almost made it seem as if Aizen knew more than he was letting on, which was impossible. His and the Supreme One's schemes have been flawless!
There is simply no way that anyone could know that "Jaldabaoth" answered to a higher power, and yet he clearly knew something to have followed him this far and make him this offer. Under different circumstances Demiurge would have enjoyed trading verbal jabs with this man, but he felt like the time for idle conversation was long past.
"I won't mind taking your message. It will give your last words something of value." Demiurge hissed, as his fingers turned to claws and wings sprouted from his back.
"So be it. I'll make you see reason some other way." Aizen coolly said, drawing his blade.
Despite the rage boiling his in belly, Demiurge was no fool. He wasn't going to fairly face someone who able to command the respect of an individual fighting Wrath on equal footing. Instead, he launched several spines towards Aizen with a flap of his wings, and took to the skies to create much-needed distance. The spines did nothing, as Aizen easily avoided them and turned his attention upwards to the demon that was out of reach.
"Hadō #57: Daichi Tenyō."
Gesturing his hands upwards, Aizen used the Kidō spell to send the nearby corpses and pieces of debris from the fallen wall to start to levitate and shoot-up towards Demiurge. The Floor Guardian was taken aback by the strange spell, but deftly dodged as he flew and moved around the incoming projectiles, and replied with a spell of his own.
"[Maximize Magic: Napalm]"
A large magical array formed above Aizen, with a massive pillar of fire that fell and seemingly swallowed the Shinigami. The inferno dug into the earth beneath, cracked and finally sundered the ground in the area. Letting out a breath, Demiurge pulled away and waited for the smoke to clear, and when it eventually did, he saw in the center of this sundered terrain a patch of untouched ground but no one there.
"There is no need to be shy, Seven. I can come to you as easily as this."
"...!"
It happened in the blink of an eye as Aizen appeared before him, so close that as the demon's brain processed this, the Shinigami's hand was on his face, and as a natural reaction he tried to swat the man away which only served in Aizen pulling his mask away. A vein visibly bulged in Demiurge's head as he quickly understood his mistake. Something that even he had warned Shalltear about, so it was an insult to have so openly revealed his face to this unknown.
"You're not so hideous as to hide your face behind a mask. Or that well known for that matter."
Demiurge quickly looked over Aizen, who was now standing in the air, and activated one of his [Skills] to engulf himself in flames to dissuade his opponent from getting into melee range. At this Aizen lifted his free hand, pulled his middle finger back with his thumb, and used the Oni Dekopin Hakuda technique to flick an invisible force at the Floor Guardian. Having used this one before on Shalltear, he knew its effectiveness.
Swallowed by a power he could not perceive or fight against, Demiurge was sent flying into the Great Wall, explosively creating a crater as a result. Extinguishing his flames, Demiurge slowly climbed to the top of the wall, looking up at Aizen who had yet to move and was simply looking right back at him.
Demiurge was starting to consider his options. It was clear that his opponent not only had him beat in terms of speed and physical stats, but also some strange magic and techniques. The spell [Napalm] hadn't worked, and while it wasn't his most high-level spell, it wasn't an issue as he had enough mana left to counter some of that speed with [Teleportation].
"Not attacking?" Demiurge stoically mused.
"Should I?" Aizen casually retorted.
Despite his smile, Demiurge was irked by the fact that it was that clear that he was planning something to force an opening onto Aizen, but also a refreshing experience since he had yet to fight someone with such a keen mind.
"Fine. I shall do it... [Greater Teleportation]."
Demiurge shifted himself to behind Aizen and when the Shinigami turned, he unleashed his next spell.
"[Hell Flame.]."
Extending his finger, Demiurge fired a small black flame-ball towards Aizen, which attached to his jacket and quickly turned into a black/red flaming inferno, prompting Aizen to not only try to rip it off, but also call upon a spell as he did so.
"Hako Okuri..."
Aizen started to say, which caused a partially translucid orange box to form around his jacket, that squeezed the flaming jacket down until it was a small cube and then vanished. Demiurge used the moment's distraction to land a clean punch on him with his enlarged arm, sending Aizen to the top of the Wall.
"...!"
Gathering his bearings, Demiurge began to gather his mana and prepare to unleash a spell, when agony filled his stomach. He did not know what was going on, but as his attention scattered and his diamond-like eyes widened, his arms wrapped around his stomach, as the pain forced him to cry out.
"Aarrrgh! What... did you do to me!?" he growled, belching blood and black flame.
"Nothing too complex. I just gave you my jacket, and since I have some familiarity with a demonic body, I sent it straight to your stomach."
Demiurge's eyes impossibly widened further at the realization. A teleportation spell that transports an object inside a target!? While possible, he could not fully grasp how this Aizen managed to get past his defenses in order to do so. Was the power-gap between them this wide!? But before he could fully process the truth of the situation, his train of thought was again broken as his own flames continued to eat away at his insides.
The pain was such that as he processed everything, his wings grew weaker and slowly he began to fall towards the ground. As his feet touched land, his mind finally broke through the pain and deactivated the spell. He was now breathing heavily, with internal damage and blood dropping from his mouth. He would heal in time if left on his own, but it still left him greatly weakened. Luckily, he had been gifted [Hygieia's Chalice] by his master, which heal any injury and fatigue.
Aizen meanwhile was somewhat disappointed that Demiurge managed to stifle the flames, but his plan with the jacket had worked out well enough. Honestly, he gave his silent respect to Hachigen Ushōda for having devised this strategy against Baraggan Louisenbairn. With this, Demiurge was now vulnerable.
Before Demiurge could try using [World Class Item] however, Aizen was again just a few feet away from him. Feeling cornered again he went on the attack with a punch from his enlarged right-arm. Aizen's swung his blade twice with a speed, fluidity, and grace that put the demon to shame, as one blade swipe sliced the arm in half, and the other sliced what was left from the shoulder, sending Demiurge to his side holding on to the newly made stump.
"Graaaagh! Dammit... Such a miserable failure!" Demiurge hissed, as Aizen looked down at him.
"We all have moments where we are cornered and lose ourselves to... simpler things. Now Seven, as you call yourself, what do you say about my offer now?" Aizen tersely asked.
"Keh...!"
It took only a moment for Demiurge to weigh his options, and as shameful as it was to run from this, his greater duty was clear; the Supreme One MUST be informed of these developments. If this powerful stranger was letting him leave so as to fulfill that duty, then all the better, as he then hissed through gritted teeth.
"Very well. You've made your case, and I'm not foolish enough to get myself killed. I'll pass your message along, Aizen... [Greater Teleportation]!"
The demon vanished, and as Aizen dusted himself off, he made his weapon disappear and walked up to where the demon's mask lay. Despite being cracked from the fall he picked it up to show to the Queen and her subjects, as a further token of his labors. The Espada had now revealed their true power, Demiurge had been driven back, and very shortly the Demi-Human Alliance would be shattered. Aizen saw no better way than this to show his more obvious cards, now all that was left was for the Espada to end things on their end and for Demiurge to keep his word. Indeed, it was all going according to plan...