Anticipation for the arrival of the Sorcerer Kingdom's ambassadors was high as Aizen and Calca, in their capacity as monarchs of the Roble Holy Kingdom, set out to personally visit places of importance in and around the capital. During which time, they also made sure to send missives to more distant areas of their nation, to inform the population of what soon may become an opening for diplomatic relations with a non-human nation. A most shocking and unorthodox opening move in their bid to end their nation's isolation.
That there would be some friction and resistance to this was expected. Still, with Calca's soft, warm, and kindly aura, combined with Aizen's unnaturally strong charisma and gravitas, to say that the people were placated would underscore how powerful of an inspiration that the royal duo had become. Especially when they didn't "impose" their will upon the people, but genuinely asked for their support.
Such a thing was compelling in-of itself, for such a captivating royal duo to "ask" their people to trust them instead of demanding it or commanding it. That in itself served as an inspiration, as they didn't impose their will, but inspired it within the people. So when this opening of possible possible diplomatic dialogue came to pass, and the captivating royal couple asked the population to be reasonable and open minded of this changing era, none could find voice to argue.
Truly, Aizen's sheer force of personality seemed to place the people under a spell all on its own, even without Calca being there to support him. The awe and admiration that he brought to bear made it seem where he could have asked anything of anyone, and they would have followed him barefoot into hell itself.
So when the topic of how the inhuman nation of the the Sorcerer Kingdom offered them much needed aid, after the invasion by the Demi-Human Alliance, was broached by the Royal Pair, support was nearly total. Especially when Royal Pair asked the population to stick together and assist their rulers in rebuilding their nation better than ever. With their support at an all-time high, there was little to no resistance even from the nobility.
Just as this plan was taking shape, word of the Roble Holy Kingdom's change in external policies started to spread throughout the lands. Even more so thanks to those present at the event where Amelia took office as Prime Minister. Especially in regards to the Slane Theocracy and Sorcerer Kingdom.
For the former, thanks to the use of teleportation magicks, it was simple for the Captain of the Black Scripture, Marcus Septimius Amor, and his entourage to move out from the event in the Holy Kingdom, back to the Theocracy. Within the night, their reports and statements were taken, which in turn gave the Cardinals time to process the Holy Kingdom's newly appointed Prime Minister, Roble's change in its isolationist policies and Marcus' interactions with Aizen.
Once he was done meeting with the Cardinals, Marcus departed and went to find a quiet and isolated place in the palace garden, in one of the larger balconies. He had done what he usually did, being as detailed as he could with his superiors, including the feelings of power he had gotten from Aizen and the Espada. However, this time he left a detail out.
While Marcus had indeed mentioned how Aizen praised him and offered him some kind of place within the Espada, the Captain neglected to mention the small yet still impactful feelings of being flustered and called out on whatever naivete Marcus had developed thanks to his upbringing and role within the Theocracy's society.
Marcus justified the decision to withhold this information as it not being needed since it didn't add to the overall scene that needed to be conveyed in his reports, but even that didn't exactly put him at ease. That he was to play a role for the sake of his nation, and with that would come expectations that he was meant to meet and supersede, meant that he should not expect praise for performing as required, he certainly knew.
However, to have someone of such clear intellect and power, point out how this seemed to be turning into a shortcoming of his, and highlighting his lack of experience, left Marcus pondering on a number of things...
"Nufufufu~"
The strange laugh brought him back from his thoughts, as now standing before him was the Extra Seat of his Scripture and the Guardian of humanity, Zesshi Zetsumei. As soon as he acknowledged her with a nod, she took the liberty to sit to his left on the bench he was currently occupying.
"Nufufufu~ It's so unusual to see you with so many openings, boy." She chuckled in ironic humor.
"Please don't use that weird laugh. And I guess I let the strains from this latest assignment take the better of me." Marcus admitted with a sigh.
"It's unusual for you to say such things, but from what I've read of the report, perhaps I neglected to consider the fatigue that comes from political situations. Since you weren't involved in any fighting." Zesshi mused with an oddly whimsical smile.
"Well, you've never really been interested in such things, so it is only normal that the feeling would be foreign to you. And you're correct. As I admit that the Holy King was far beyond what we had expected in terms of intellect and presence."
"Ara~! And what can you tell me of his 'presence'~?" She then asked with a tone not dissimilar to when she talked of having a child with a strong individual.
"I described it in the report." Marcus curtly replied, causing her to roll her eyes.
"There's no need to be so coy, Captain. If you prefer I can call back the people that were making their way here to speak to you about finding you your brides. From what I understand, they're even more keen on the idea, since they are aware that you were able to establish a 'friendly conversation' with the head of the Espada and Holy King." Zesshi chuckled with a cunning smile.
"That is hardly something that can be used to sway me."
"Oh, come on~! What if I go and talk to people about how distracted you seem to be? From the reports nothing seemed to have happened to have left you so thoughtful, o' Captain." She argued, causing him to shift in his seat for a moment.
"There's no need for you to go and bother people with things like that. As I said in the report, he was probably among the strongest individuals I have ever shared a space with, aside from that vampire. I couldn't tell what race he was, but I don't think he is human. At least not entirely. And when it comes to presence... He was being polite and courteous, so there was no hostility being directed at me, but he certainly, filled the room with this air of power. As per the report, I find it a bit strange to describe, as I'm not sure I have ever felt anything exactly like that." Marcus informed, finally relenting.
"Ara~! To think of something that leaves even someone like you puzzled~ To be able to command the Espada who themselves are noteworthy, and he is a rather handsome man... I can only imagine what the children would look like if he were to defeat me~" Zesshi started to ramble on, using her hands to caress her abdomen, while making strange sounds.
"..."
It never failed to amaze Marcus, in a negative sense, how despite all the times he had been present for a similar showing on the part of Zesshi to this, how it was always so awkward. As a person he silently worried for her future, but as one who has known her for so long, and was in the know regarding her upbringing, in a way he felt sorry for her, but didn't fail to be disturbed by what was currently going on.
In a way she was like him; naïve to the rest of the world, limited by her circumstances, and ironically enough her great power. At least this much was what came to him as he looked at her and his mind drifted to what Aizen said. Yet as soon as these thoughts came about, he lifted a hand to his forehead, massaging it as if trying to push back such unnecessary thoughts and considerations.
"Captain, could it be that I wasn't wrong in saying that something happened that you failed to report?"
"...!"
Again, Zesshi's voice brought him back from his thoughts. She had already recomposed herself and was now looking at him, with an amused and curious stare, waiting for him to react in some way. It was honestly surprising that she was now being so observant.
"You usually aren't as insistent on these things." Marcus deflectively argued.
"The Captain usually isn't as distant as this. You can tell me. My lips are sealed." Zesshi chuckled back.
"I... wouldn't say I failed to report anything. I simply did as was expected, and kept my feelings separate from the matter." He explained, causing her to roll her eyes at him.
"What a bore. Some day you'll explode from keeping so many 'feelings' to yourself. Gods know I feel the same." Zesshi remarked, with a sigh.
"It is what is expected of us, given our standing and position."
"It's bullshit that's what it is."
"You're being childish, Zesshi." The Captain sighed.
"What's wrong with being childish!? I like being childish! And what's it to you!? You get to go around, play dress up and share drinks with someone like Aizen, while I have to stay here and look at the same walls and people every day! I do nothing all day, I put up with their procedures, and 'treasures', and 'gods' and all of that! For what!? They won't even say thank you or ask me how I'm doing, or the like!"
Zesshi voice echoed through the garden and probably through the immediate area, but in the current state of things, it got an unexpected reaction, as it managed to pull out a chuckle from Marcus' lips. The occurrence being enough to get her to shut up, cross her arms and raise an eyebrow at him.
"Ah, fine. Fine. I'll tell you, but only if you do keep it to yourself." Marcus said, with the mix of sighing and a chuckling at her ravings.
"I'm all ears." Zesshi announced, with a wide and pleased grin.
"Indeed, he offered me a drink, which I declined as I don't drink. He then offered some kind of a role in the Espada, which I declined as this is my nation and I have no plans of abandoning it. However, the way he worded things, they way he spoke, it feels like it's been a long time since anyone had offered me such clear and open praise."
"For real?" She mumbled, taking him aback by her choice in words.
"You are very jovial today."
"I'm working on ways to work on my frustration, especially with this Espada business."
Silence then fell between them, as Zesshi hadn't expected this. To be honest, she didn't even know what to expect when she asked the Captain about this, as more than likely he would have deflected the question to the last. Or at least that is what she had imagined. This sudden shift about genuine sounding praise, was shocking and hit her head-on, as Zesshi could imagine how the words had hit Marcus when Aizen said them.
"This man praised you in some way and it's got you thinking?" Zesshi thoughtfully asked.
"You're making it sound worse than it is. I was just surprised is all." Marcus quickly argued.
"You keep telling yourself that... But from where I sit, that sounds nice and refreshing."
"You're thinking too much about this. In fact the both of us are thinking too much about it. Given the circumstances, it only makes sense that he would speak as he did." Marcus pointed out, causing Zesshi to roll her eyes again.
"Same goes for the Cardinals. They just don't sound as genuine as Aizen did. The same goes for just about everyone around here that is able to wield some kind of influence. Same will probably go for whatever wives you finally pick up... Let's just face it, we're surrounded by the social elite of the Slane Theocracy. You know... morons." Zesshi retorted, before leaning back into her seat with a weary sigh.
"Again, you're being childish..." Marcus tried to say, when she spoke over him.
"And you're being dishonest with yourself. That man, so far above anyone you know, praised you as a person, acknowledged your skills, even if indirectly, and you genuinely appreciated it. You can be honest about it, at least to me."
"I... It just feels strange is all. But... I have admit that it was 'refreshing' as you put it, and conflicting to feel it coming from an outsider, and someone as strong as him." Marcus wearily admitted, rising to his feet.
"Why didn't you stay? If he sounded good for it, maybe he would give you a better time of it, than you have here." Zesshi jokingly suggested.
"Because I'm no traitor, Zesshi." He retorted, with a calm, but stern tone.
"Right. Of course. Well, you can go if you want. I won't keep you, Captain. But if you ever change your mind, just be sure to mention it to me so I can also go and check out this new employment prospect." She pointed out with a weary laugh, as her thoughts went back to her actual reality.
"Hm... I should get going. Be well, Zesshi."
"You're welcome by the way."
"Indeed." Marcus chuckled.
Giving the half-elf a nod, Marcus departed, feeling as if a certain weight had been lifted from his shoulders after his talk with Zesshi. While her way of putting things was crude, and in some ways concerning, Marcus had to admit that she was surprisingly keen and decent a listener. So the conversation had helped him accept the compliment that had been thrown his way. Indeed, Zesshi turned out to be quite the surprising confidant, and in it's own way, this moment allowed them to grow closer than he thought possible...
On that same day, the Doppelgänger Claude Raunales and his group returned to the capital of the Sorcerer Kingdom E-Rantel, where he quickly made his way to deliver the missive to the Prime Minister herself, Albedo. She in turn had him accompany her, as they then went to the residence of the Sorcerer King himself, Ainz Ooal Gown.
While Claude was asked to wait, Albedo being the dutiful attendant that she was, made her way through the estate, to the private quarters of her master. Knocking on the door softly, before opening it and looking inside, to find the room open. Yet her keen senses picked up on sounds coming from the door that led to the closet, including that of women.
With gritted teeth, as she did her best to look composed as she made her way to the closet door and walked inside, announcing her presence and coming across what was for those involved a daily occurrence. Within this massive walk-in closet, Ainz stood before a mirror, currently dressed in white and golden robes, while four of the Homunculus Maids walked around him, and looked up other pieces of clothing.
"Oh!? Albedo. I didn't hear you walk into the room." Ainz remarked, shifting himself to look at her.
"My apologies. I knocked, but seem to have failed to properly announce myself." Albedo quickly said, bowing awkwardly, as her eyes were partially fixed on her superior as the maids finished up closing his robe.
Ainz sighed internally, as he again wondered if her strange behavior came from him having changed her settings. Not only that, but he was a bit embarrassed. Given how light his schedule was for the day, he decided to take a more lax approach, and now he feared he was setting some kind of bad example for his subordinates.
"I see. Please be more careful in the future. As you can see they are all busy making sure I look presentable as a King. Well, you can be at ease Albedo. What brings you here today? I thought you had things to attend to."
"Of course, my apologies, Ainz-sama. Indeed, I have, but the agents we sent to the Roble Holy Kingdom have returned. 'Claude' brought with him a missive with their terms for our meeting a week from now, so I quickly came to inform you, Ainz-sama." Albedo said, straightening herself from her bowing position.
"Umu... That was quick. Have you read it?" Ainz asked in curiosity.
"Indeed, I have, Ainz-sama."
"In that case, perhaps it would be easier for you to tell me its contents once I'm ready. We'll meet in the throne room. And bring 'Claude' too."
"As you wish. I also took the liberty of sending word to Demiurge, and from what I understand he should be able to join us." Albedo dutifully informed.
"Good. If that is all, you are dismissed Albedo."
"As you wish, Ainz-sama."
Giving the Supreme Being a bow, Albedo allowed her eyes to linger on him for a little bit longer, before departing and tending to the drool that was starting to build on the side of her mouth.
Ainz motioned for the maids to continue assisting him in picking up his clothes, while being unsure of what to think of the fact both Albedo and Demiurge were getting involved in this meeting. As it stood, the terms were basically decided upon between himself and Aizen, so Ainz worried what the two eager NPCs could say if the missive had any kind of new demands that had been put into place by those around Aizen.
With his garments straightened, with the ensemble being the white and golden robes, staff, white footwear with gold lining and several pieces of jewelry. Ainz strolled into the throne room in a regal manner, where Albedo, Demiurge, Claude, and some hidden Eight-Edge Assassins stood by as guards.
The Overlord walked up to his throne, everyone else quickly kneeling in his presence, took a seat, seemed to let his eyes scan the area as he internally sighed at all the theatrics and with a simple gesture motioned for everyone to rise. Given the situation Albedo, Demiurge, and Claude were all standing side-by-side facing their ruler, making for a situation that left the simple Doppelgänger feel out of place and nervous.
"First, I shall congratulate Claude and those that accompanied him, even if they aren't here, for a successful mission." Ainz magnanimously announced.
"You humble me with your words, Ainz-sama." Claude said, giving the Overlord a deep bow.
"You may rise. While I'm certain you will put forth a detailed report of how things went and who you interacted with, I would like to have a general idea of how things went." The Supreme Being mused as he rested his head upon his left-fist.
"Taking into account what I was told about Aizen and the Espada, it all went more or less as predicted by yourself and Demiurge-sama. Our arrival got a lot of attention, including the Espada as Rimun is the 'heart of their territory' there. In this case, the 2nd and 7th-ranked Espada. I was taken alone to, surprisingly enough, the Royal Palace itself, where I got to meet the Holy Queen and King, the newly elected Prime Minister, Prince Caspond, and the Queen's Twin Wings." Claude succinctly informed.
"The Shadow Demon stayed behind because it was detected?" Demiurge asked, getting a stiff nod in reply.
"In that case, it certainly was 'more or less' what you anticipated Demiurge." Ainz calmly mused.
"Please, Ainz-sama, I was just picking up on what you clearly had already considered." The demon humbly argued.
"And you managed to interact with them? Nothing negative to note?" The Overlord asked, turning his focus back to Claude.
"Remedios Custodio was an issue, as our information suggested, but she was placated by the rest. Outside of that, I was able to speak freely with them, or at least as freely as the situation allowed."
"That is good to know. Despite the circumstances with Aizen, the ability to address a room with such important people is imperative for what we are trying to achieve in the Holy Kingdom. That being said, I'll also have to think of a suitable reward." Ainz mused.
"Oh! Uhm... I would never dream of such a thing. Serving you, and receiving your praise, is more than enough for me, Ainz-sama." Claude quickly retorted, performing another deep bow.
"..."
Scratching the side of his head with his index-finger, Ainz sighed as like always, the NPCs willingness to basically work for nothing, caused him no end of consternations.
"Umu... In that case, Albedo I pass the word to you." He said, waving to her as his tone briefly took a certain tone of defeat.
"Do you wish for me to read it?" Albedo asked, missive at hand.
"Summarize it."
"As you wish, Ainz-sama. As expected it starts with a showing of gratitude by both rulers of the Roble Holy Kingdom, for your gracious showing of concern for their nation's current predicament. They seem to agree with accepting a visit from three ambassadors a week from now to open diplomatic talks. While accepting the terms put forwards, with the extra demand of wanting their own embassy here in E-Rantel, which includes the suggestion of using the same building the Espada once used as their headquarters, that they abandoned after moving full-time to the Holy Kingdom." Albedo calmly informed.
"This reply also goes within what we expected." Demiurge commented as he pushed up his glasses.
"I admit that I had wondered how the embassy remark would be taken, since that hadn't been mentioned when we spoke with Aizen in Nazarick." Albedo remarked, showing some clear disdain for the man.
"I'm sure that from his point of view it was implied, as an embassy would only make things easier for us as things proceed." Ainz pointed out with a neutral tone.
"It is exactly as Ainz-sama says. In turn them having an embassy here will make things easier for them, help solidify the relationship between both nations, and show the world that we are not above mercy and helping our neighbors." Demiurge added with a cunning undertone to his voice.
"Whatever the case, we should discuss who we will pick as ambassadors." Albedo pointed out.
"Speaking of which, Claude from what you saw, who would you consider to be the weakest 'link' among those people you met? Not including Remedios." Demiurge asked, looking at the Doppelgänger.
"The Prince."
"Oh? That is surprising, but goes along with what our latest information says regarding the Queen having been strengthened by Aizen's presence." The demon mused as he contemplatively cradled his chin with right-thumb and forefinger.
"Demiurge, we aren't here planning on manipulating anyone." Ainz pointed out, with a stern tone as he didn't want to risk anything going wrong.
"Ah, I would never dream of it, Ainz-sama. I was just asking out of curiosity, but given the current situation, I would never act on it." Demiurge quickly said, with a bow.
"As long as you understand."
"Then regarding the ambassadors. I think that Claude would be perfect for the role. Not only has he met these people to some extent, and exchanged dialogue with them, but he was already prepared for such things, since he would have replaced Prince Caspond, if things had gone differently in the Roble Holy Kingdom." The demon calmly suggested.
"Umu... I agree. He would do nicely for the task." Ainz remarked.
"You both humble me, Demiurge-sama. Ainz-sama." Claude said, bowing to both of them.
"The same should go for the two others, no? It is easier to employ a Doppelgänger, as they are more apt at theatrics. Perhaps we could make use of some of the Erich String Orchestra." Albedo analytically suggested.
"Yes, with how strained our man-power is, especially in terms of capable spokesmen, that is a good approach." Ainz mused.
"We just need for them to take on humanoid features to keep the people of the Roble Holy Kingdom at ease. Especially if Claude is more trained at this than they are." Albedo pointed out.
"True. They could focus more on fighting prowess and pleasing looks, than actual political ability. Naturally, we would also have them ready to intervene and speak when necessary." Demiurge added.
"In that case... Sebas Tian for his offensive capabilities, and Aureole Omega for buffs and teleportation ability. Granted, it is not an infallible line-up, but they would be able to hold out in case of trouble even as Doppelgängers, with the added ability to act." Ainz pondered aloud, quickly getting the attention of the three NPCs.
"As expected of Ainz-sama! Those two are already more friendly towards humans and are able to interact with them without issue, so two duplicates doing the same wouldn't raise too many questions in the future." Demiurge quickly announced.
"Eh?"
"I would have never thought of it like that. As expected of Ainz-sama~!" Albedo added with exuberance.
"I am humbled to be even a small piece in your brilliance, Ainz-sama." Claude said, as he was taken along with the Floor Guardians' excitement.
"..."
Ainz fell silent, allowing the current excitement and overreaction on the part of the NPCs to fade, and once it seemed like they were settling, he raised a hand to motion them to be at ease. Only then did he try to speak, having taken enough time to regain his composure after another scene that never failed to make him feel uncomfortable.
"If that is all, I think we are done with this meeting. Demiurge, as you were already responsible for Claude's upbringing as it were, I'll leave it to you to choose the two members of the Erich String Orchestra who will accompany him." Ainz promptly instructed.
"As you wish, Ainz-sama."
"You are all dismissed and may return to your duties."
With that final command, the NPCs again bowed before their Supreme Being, departing as instructed, and leaving Ainz to rest as he usually needed to after having to put up with the NPCs over-enthusiasm over almost everything he said. Albedo naturally went back to her duties for the day as Prime Minister.
However, she was very intelligent, and certainly very devoted to her beloved, so she couldn't simply stand by and allow Aizen to hold all of the cards, and have any advantage over Nazarick. While it was true that nothing was to be found in the Espada's former headquarters after the Sorcerer Kingdom took over E-Rantel, many people remained as it was their home.
Given that, she had sent out feelers for what they knew of the Espada, trying to find something of worth to them. Recently, she had heard something about stories of ships going missing at sea, with only at times a single or so survivor showing up with children. The Espada had been involved in case related exactly to this, and how they had returned while the rest had seemingly perished.
If Albedo's read of Aizen and the Espada was correct, she could see that Aizen had been playing his game for a long time, so it wasn't impossible that he had hidden some of his "cards" somewhere else. A place where only a few had ever returned from. With even this smallest pieces of information, a plan began to take shape in her mind, and when the time was right, she would enact retribution on Aizen...
On the other hand, Demiurge took a moment to walk around his master's home, taking in the Supreme Being's lingering majesty, even if he preferred his master to continue to reside in Nazarick, before he was to return to the field. This allowed for Claude to walk after his superior, silently following him after he felt they were alone enough to bring up a certain topic.
"Demiurge-sama, if I may. While I did not want to show my shortcomings to Ainz-sama, I must admit that I was surprise by just how different the Queen of Roble was from when compared to most of the information we had."
"Level-up." Demiurge calmly and tersely said, confusing the Doppelgänger.
"Pardon? I don't follow."
"I admit that the term may not be fully correct in this instance, but I believe I have grasped enough of its usage from what I've heard from the Supreme Beings. I never made sure that you were familiar with this topic, but tell me how much do you know of Carne Village?" The Floor Guardian asked in a manner akin to a teach asking a student.
"Again, I admit to my shortcomings, as I was never openly instructed to follow up on that. I only know that it is one of Ainz-sama's projects." Claude admitted, lowering his head as if in shame.
"A miss on my part perhaps... That aside, you can take this time to become familiar with it and with that perhaps grasp what I mean with 'level-up'. In any case, Carne Village and the human known as Enri Emmot, Ainz-sama arrived there not long after we arrived in this world, and with his foresight correctly concluded that at the very least, that peasant could be nurtured to usefulness to us." Demiurge explained, pausing as he let Claude process things.
"So, Aizen did that with the Queen?"
"Exactly. Humans are more often than not weak beings, but what Ainz-sama has proven is that some can certainly be nurtured. Now Aizen, as someone whose intellect is above my own has also grasped this fact. And since he has been here much longer than we have, has applied this concept of nurturing to more than likely everyone around him, including the Queen, and in the process turning around her reign."
"And in the process also getting a place on the throne." Claude mused in understanding.
"Indeed."
"I hope that I am not blaspheming, and if I am may my head be taken swiftly, but if that is the case, he certainly is brilliant." Claude carefully worded.
"Your thoughts are correct, for that remark many would have your head roll, so keep such things to yourself. Yet, as we speak here privately, I will also openly admit to that same sentiment. He clearly showed himself much more than we had expected. And that is why what follows is so important, including your role as ambassador. While not quite as pivotal as taking Prince Caspond's place, it will keep appearances and increase how the nations around us perceive the Sorcerer Kingdom as a nation, so behave." Demiurge said with a stern and direct tone.
"As you say, Demiurge-sama."
"Remember, while it is true that we were outplayed and have been placed in this situation, the future of this relationship will be shaped by both sides, so let us keep our wits above us."
"Indeed. I promise, I shall not fail you, Demiurge-sama."
A week later at the allotted time, the Sorcerer Kingdom's envoys arrived in Rimun. Again, the people of the port city saw a Frost Dragon descend from the sky onto one of the empty berths for ships. Upon it was Claude dressed in exquisite garments, a man that looked like an archetypical butler, and a woman whose style reminded some of those from the nation to the South. Just like before, the arrival of the Dragon was followed by the arrival of the Espada, with Annika using teleportation magic to take the trio to the Royal Capital.
Following previous orders, Annika took them to the Royal Palace itself. Being expected and watched via magical means, the group appeared literally just a few feet away from a small set of steps that led to large double-doors, leading to the Palace's interior.
Here the area was prepared to greet them, with 20 Paladins positioned in rows of five on their sides. Above the doors of the palace was the flag of the Roble Holy Kingdom, but also the Sorcerer Kingdom as a sign of the friendship one side extended the other, trumpets could be heard, and standing on top of the small set of steps was Kelart Custodio.
"I welcome you, ambassadors of the Sorcerer Kingdom. My name is Kelart Custodio. I come to you as representative of our monarchs and of the Roble Holy Kingdom. I bid you welcome."
Kelart walked down the steps, as she spoke, finishing with an elegant bow, displaying calm and cordiality to the new arrivals. Showing respecting for their status was expected of one to utter the first official words of this event. Claude smiled, took a few steps away from his companions and returned the bow before introducing himself.
"Claude Raunales, the head ambassador for the Sorcerer Kingdom. We are honored to be here, and your welcoming committee certainly makes us feel at ease."
"It gladdens me to hear that. Please follow me. The Royal Pair and the Prime Minister will see you shortly." Kelart cordially informed.
"Please lead the way."
Kelart then led the ambassadors deeper into the Palace, with Annika following shortly after with a few Paladins for appearance's sake. Eventually they arrived at another set of double-doors, flanked by two Paladins, with Kelart opening them, taking a few steps inside and motioning for the ambassadors to enter with a bow.
Beyond the door was a large room receiving room for official guests. The wall opposite to them bore stained-glass windows leading to the gardens, with was an exquisite blue rug leading up to them, and beautiful paintings hanging from the walls on either side, including a recent addition of the Royal Pair. Sitting behind a finely crafted and luxurious desk, clad in exquisite garments befitting their status was the Prime Minister, the Holy Queen, and the Holy King.
The Roble Holy Kingdom's three powers rose, nodded, and Calca motioned for the trio of ambassadors to approach their table. The ambassadors bowed deeply before taking seats opposite to theirs, while Kelart closed the doors and walked to one end of the table. Taking a seat next to a stack of papers, she would act as official scribe during the meeting. On top of the table, was a set of finely crafted glasses, pitchers with water, and small bells to be used to call upon staff if needed.
"Welcome to the Roble Holy Kingdom. I am Holy Queen Calca Calca Bessarez. This is Holy King Sōsuke Aizen, and this is our Prime Minister Amelia Bedelia Aigner." Calca announced in a calm and soothing voice.
"It is a pleasure to have returned to your land, Your Majesty. I now serve as Head Ambassador for the Sorcerer Kingdom. My fellow ambassadors are Sebas Tian as personal attendant to the Sorcerer King, and this is Aureole Omega." Claude said, motioning to those next to him.
Nods were exchanged, and despite appearances both Aizen and Amelia, thanks to their enhanced senses, could easily tell that all three ambassadors were Doppelgängers, so they knew those two weren't the people Claude said they were, but for the time being that mattered little.
"Then, let us begin. And do not mind Kelart. She will be making a record of this momentous occasion." Amelia informed.
With that they made themselves as comfortable as could be in the given situation as Kelart readied herself to start taking notes. For a moment there was silence, as each side took a moment to pour drinks, settling into the room's atmosphere, with Calca eventually taking the first step towards starting a dialogue.
"I would like to start by again echoing the sentiments of our missive, and extend our thanks as the rulers and representatives of Roble, for the concern the Sorcerer Kingdom showed for our nation's situation."
"The Sorcerer King is a being of great power and compassion. As our nation endeavors towards expanding, our eyes further open to the state of the world and the needs of our neighbors, so he decided that it would be remiss not to extend a hand to a struggling neighbor. Especially one that would more than likely do the same in return." The one going by professionally "Sebas Tian" explained.
"Which we certainly appreciate. Now, if we are here it is because both sides agreed with the other's missive and terms, so I suggest that we should start by discussing those topics. To wit, placing our initial focus on the aid the Sorcerer Kingdom spoke of, in terms of goods and labor." Amelia proposed with hand extended.
"Ah, straight to the point I see. As you wish, Prime Minister. I have a document with me discussing numbers for deliveries of grain and wheat, which I will hand you now. For the time being we are considering using a combination of teleportation magic and dragons for transport."
As he spoke, Claude reached into one of his sleeves and pulled out a scroll with the seal of the Sorcerer Kingdom. He handed it to the person directly in front of him in Queen Calca. She took it from his hands and proceeded to read over it, her eyes growing slightly wide, before she passed it to Aizen, who calmly read it, before passing it to Amelia who also looked rather calm, and finally the scroll ended up in Kelart's hands who also showed some visible surprise.
"A very generous amount." Calca remarked, doing her best to hide her surprise.
"A fair amount given the situation. Especially when we intend to teleport an initial shipment to Rimun as soon as an agreement is reached here." Claude informed with a slight smile.
"I do not believe we had discussed using Rimun for that in the missives." Aizen smoothly pointed out.
"That is true, but given its importance for trade, we believed that it would be fitting and beneficial for us, especially when we move on to the topic of trade routes." Claude promptly explained.
"The Sorcerer King also considered it to be ready to quickly mobilize if a shipment does suddenly arrive, since it is such a focal port city." The one going by "Omega" added.
"Hm... They have a fair point." Calca mused.
"Agreed. They certainly do. So, I say that we can agree to having Rimun be the place to receive these shipments, independent of how they are brought there." Aizen calmly announced.
"I am pleased to hear that. Not only are we able to send a shipment as soon as an agreement is reached, but we can also send along with it a force of 100 undead to begin working on the Great Wall." The ambassador proudly informed.
"Ah, yes... About that, we have sent word out to the population, and from what we can tell we have their support when it comes to accepting this aid. However, we will need to carefully layout a plan when it comes to their use, so that we can ease them into work without frightening our citizens, and see what we may or may not need to consider regarding the exposure of negative energy to the environment." Calca explained with a much more serious tone than before.
"But of course, Your Majesty. If that is the only issue, you can take your time to make said preparations, and afterwards inform us, and we'll have them brought here. Also, I will need to know where you would want them delivered exactly."
"The Great Wall itself, to lessen the impact that may come from the populace seeing them, no matter what they agreed upon." Amelia curtly replied.
"That can be arranged." The butler said with a head-nod.
"That settles things for the transportation of goods and labor. Now, perhaps we discuss commerce and routes?" Calca suggested in a softer tone.
"As you wish. Again, taking into account the fact that there is no direct connection between both nations, we offer the use of dragons and teleportation to move goods and even people between both nations. Perhaps some area of Rimun can be repurposed for this. We don't mind leasing some old warehouses, since we may need to move laborers in, depending on what you decide regarding the embassy." Claude pointed out.
"Taking into account how the only viable connection between our nations would go through the sea and the Re-Estize Kingdom, I do not see an issue with setting up a less used part of Rimun, such as the old warehouses like you suggested, to store goods, receive dragons, and establish teleportation circles or the like. I believe it would also allow people from both our respective nations to interact and hold dialogue to further encourage relations." Aizen diplomatically mused.
"Yes, that is what I was thinking." Calca added with a soft smile.
"In that case, perhaps it would be simpler to make such arrangements if we moved on to the topic of embassies? Depending where ours is placed, next to it could be another center of commerce." Claude mused as he cradled his chin.
"I was curious about that actually. As we had already selected where our embassy could be in E-Rantel." Amelia pointed out, to which the ambassador smirked.
"Indeed. You had chosen the building that was once the Espada's headquarters. Terms that were seen as acceptable, along with the Holy Kingdom setting up a trading center in another area of E-Rantel that, even before the rise of the Sorcerer Kingdom, was used for commerce. It is of course, your decision, as we do not mind if we need to build or renovate other buildings. I ask only to be mindful of the fact that we will want to employ our own laborers for time-based concerns." The ambassador amiably informed.
"That's a reasonable request... From what I know, Rimun still has some sizable buildings that can be set up to work as an embassy. Something similar to what the Espada currently use. However, that would also mean that commerce and storing goods wouldn't happen directly next to the embassy. More than likely requiring the restoration of warehouses and other districts. When it comes to speaking with locals, there are already other buildings and groups the Sorcerer Kingdom can integrate into." The Holy Queen pointed out.
"If that integration can be guaranteed, we will take the offer of where our commerce can be held. Regarding the embassy itself, that sounds like a good arrangement, given the circumstances." Omega reassured.
"We have been working with Rimun's population to make such ideas clear, so that should not be an issue." Aizen said, still with that same calm, focused countenance that Claude often found unnerving, but expertly hid as he humbly replied.
"The assurances of the Holy King certainly do make us feel at ease."
As soon as the remark escaped his lips Claude wondered if he had gone too far, since perhaps it would have sounded like a strange thing to say, so he quickly eyed Calca and Kelart. Luckily for him both women looked surprised and pleased to see the King have seemingly such a big impact on the ambassador's thoughts on things. After all, while they weren't aware, even with all the different moving pieces in this deal, the Holy King had certainly made some "assurances" clear from his visit to Nazarick.
"Hm... I am glad that our talks have born such fruit in such a short amount of time. Truly, it fills me with optimism for our future relations with the Sorcerer Kingdom. That being, I believe that brings an end to the topics we needed to discuss to discuss for now." Amelia said in her usual business-like tone.
"Yes, I agree with your sentiments, Madam Prime Minister." The one called "Sebas" said in acceptance.
"Kelart, do you have everything you need?" Calca inquisitively asked, looking at the Custodio sister.
"Indeed, I have, Your Majesty." Kelart dutifully replied.
"In that case, let us adjourn for now, and contact those we need to in order to receive that first shipment of goods and labor to our side, and then move on to a meal?" Calca offered with a warm and polite tone.
"That does sound lovely, Your Majesty. However, we will need a private place to make such communications." Claude said, with a more serious tone.
"That is not a problem. A room has already been arranged for that." Aizen said with a smile.
"Then we are in agreement. My thanks for your hospitality and forethought."
Establishing where the goods and labor had to be sent, the group exchanged pleasantries, and the ambassadors were taken to a room where they were able to privately report about how things progressed using [Message] with Nazarick. The ones to receive their reports would be Demiurge and Albedo, who would in turn report these events to their master, Ainz Ooal Gown.
On their end Aizen, Amelia, and Calca also sent word to the Espada and those people who needed to be mobilized and informed to greet what the Sorcerer Kingdom was about deliver. Once this was done, the group came back together to enjoy a proper meal within the hour.
When the meal came to an end, some small talk was had and then the Royal Pair excused themselves from the gathering to prepare and for the following day. Which was a dinner party at what was basically the manor and northern base of operations for one of the most important members of the Southern Noble Alliance.
This naturally meant that not only would that particular noble be there, but also other notable individuals, including Marquis Bodipo. Beyond expected pleasantries, the relationship between Roble's Northern and Southern halves were discussed, along with plans for the Royal Pair to leave for the South not long after.
Plans were made to take up temporary residence in Prince Caspond's manor there, make a appearances in certain locations, and finally go to that dinner party. In the meantime, with the aid of Prince Caspond and Kelart, the ambassadors would be shown around Rimun, finish up any necessary paperwork, with Annika's teleportation magic serving as transport for the group.
For the purposes of their trip, the Royals would be accompanied by 20 Paladins of some skill. However, the stand out members of their personal guard would be two members of the Espada in Leinas Rockbruise and Nazz, whom were recalled from their personal business in the Dragon Kingdom.
Transportation was an interesting development for those Paladins not used to such "casual" use of remarkable methods. For while they and the Espada were mounted upon horse, the Royal Pair took a carriage pulled by four Sleipnirs, which were among the most majestic and expensive of mounts in the land. Most had not even seen such beast until then.
Adding to their shocks, Aizen swiftly teleported all of them to the square of the city where the Prince's manor resided. It was such a shocking turn of events, and needless to say, the jaws of the Paladins and those nearby slacked open in comically fashion upon the sudden appearance of those flying the Royal emblem.
Even more so when from the carriage being pulled by the multi-legged Sleipnirs, appeared the Royal Couple who took a moment to greet the people, before moving into the Prince's estate. From there, they went about meetings, exchanging some pleasantries and at a point were greeted by quite the pleasant surprise as they were invited to Marquis Bodipo's own personal estate.
Upon their arrival, drawing many awed looks and gasps, they were greeted by the noble who as usual gave them a bow and a smirk as he stroked his beard, before they were joined by the representatives of lesser nobles. Some of whom belonged to the Southern Noble Alliance.
The importance of this event, especially before the planned dinner party, was that Bodipo formally announced a "change of heart", allying with the north. Calca's words had moved him, as well as seeing how capable Aizen was, and now the bold news regarding the Sorcerer Kingdom. Bodipo would place his "pieces" on the Royals' side, which included the lesser nobles and those of importance loyal to him. Even before the dinner, the Royals received a major victory.
Once the dinner between the Royal Pair and the heads of the Southern Noble Alliance happened, many whispers and comments were made about the Holy Monarchs. From how Aizen looked, walked, spoke, and his "aura", truly for many he was the King they had wished for, and many could not help but be drawn to him.
However, all were surprised, even pleasantly so, with Queen Calca's development and growing maturity, which further fueled praise for Aizen. Of course, massive outrage was expected due to Marquis Bodipo's change of allegiances, and the break in the Alliance showed how the balance of power tipped into Aizen's favor.
This shift grew as more people could see the merits in Aizen's and Calca's mindset, and what it meant for their nation as a whole. Some feared what may come from these changes regarding their personal power, while others simply were firm in their stubbornness to oppose the Holy Queen.
The presence of a clearly capable, and personally powerful Holy King however, managed to subdue such discontent, and leave them open to cooperation. Although the implication of some kind of reprisal from having gone against the ruler of their nation, certainly left some very keen on assisting the Royal Pair, if out of nothing but simple self-preservation.
This was most prevalent more and more information became available of how powerful their new King was. While some wanted to disregard such stories as mere flights of fancy or exaggerations, when someone like Marquis Bodipo bent the knee to the Holy King, many took notice.
What was certain was that when the night came to an end, and many talks were had among those present, even with a few leaving the event, the head of the house raised his glass and directed everyone on a newly formed sentiment of cooperation with the North, and the renewed life that had been injected into their nation.
This went beyond Calca's wildest dreams, that in a single trip the nobles of the south could be made to so greatly change their stances, was truly unexpected. Such things the Holy Queen pondered, as her and her beloved laid in bed, her head resting on his chest as she looked up at his calm and smooth features, her heart racing as she pondered of how lucky she was to have him, and how he truly was a lifesaver.
Indeed, there was nothing better than this, victory after victory, all the while she held the hand of her beloved, whose simple presence made her feel like everything would be alright no matter what happens. After all, such were Aizen's intentions, and before the week was out, both halves of the Roble Holy Kingdom would be truly united for the first time in recent memory.