The Nazarick Triumvirate (collab with daniel santiago 4545)

by theoneandonlyedster

The Undead Overlord. The Dragon Emperor. The Nephilim Champion. Momonga is joined in the New World by two of his guildmates who stayed with him 'til the end, and together they will take the New World by storm as the Nazarick Triumvirate! Collab story. Follows canon plot with some alterations. OCxHarem. Rated M for mature language and mild sex scenes. Now with a TV Tropes page!

8. An Eventful Road Trip

Before we start, both daniel and I would like to thank everyone for 100 follows and favourites on this story! Your support and enjoyment of our work mean a lot to us and keeps us motivated to deliver you the best work we can!

It is for that reason I must deeply apologise to both daniel and you all for the lateness of this chapter. I wish I could offer you a better reason, but after my weekend away at the end of June…instead of feeling refreshed and recharged, I felt listless and unmotivated for not only writing but everything in general, whether it was for things I usually enjoy like playing games and watching anime or every day things like work, talking to my friends and even personal hygiene. I won't bore you with the details, but it meant I didn't write for a whole week, and even when I did start writing I had days when I felt completely unmotivated and thus didn't write since, like I explained in a past author's note, I refuse to put out anything that isn't up to my usual standards. I owe that to you, to daniel and to you who have come along for the ride with us.

I've been doing better the past few days and as a result was able to blitz the latter half of this chapter during that time, but that's no excuse for the delay and for that, you once again have my unreserved apologies. I can't promise something like this won't happen again, but I will do my best to try and maintain a positive mind-frame at least for the sake of this story, if not for my own mental and physical health.

(daniel: Hey guys! Good to see you again! Hopefully this chapter will make you all more forgiving on the tardiness! My partner in crime has his slow days too! But we need to have faith in him! Greatness takes time!)

Now that's been said, here we go with chapter 8 of this story as our gang hits the road with the Swords of Darkness and Nfirea. As always, the usual disclaimer that neither I nor daniel own Overlord or any of its characters, locations, events or anything else related to the anime, manga or Light Novels. The only things we own are our OCs, Henry and Fengxian. ENJOY!

Chapter 8 – An Eventful Road Trip

The sun was still high in the sky as the company of nine set off from E-Rantel, with the only minor delay to the start coming from having to load up a cart with all of the food and supplies they would need for the journey to Carne Village and back as well as some of Nfirea's equipment that he'd insisted on bringing. Once that had all been put together, they had all poured over a map to decide on the best route to take out of their two options. The first, and perhaps most straightforward route, was to follow the path north out of E-Rantel until it reached the outskirts of the Great Forest of Tob and then take an easterly bearing to Carne. The second route was slightly longer yet safer and would take them east out of E-Rantel before swinging up and around to the north in a wide arc that would avoid the Forest altogether.

Arguments were put forth to take both routes, but in the end, the prevailing opinion was that they had the strength in numbers and could handle the more dangerous route, so the first route was chosen. Once that had been decided, they figured out a guard formation around the cart that would allow them to spot enemies coming in all directions as well as sufficiently protect Nfirea from harm. Lukrut would be at the front, as his skills as a hunter and tracker would allow him to scout ahead and inform them of any possible obstacles in their path. Behind him, ostensibly to protect Lukrut from harm as well as serve as an additional line of defence from any enemies who would attack from the front, but in reality they positioned themselves there to make sure the pervy hunter didn't get up to any ideas, were Alfred and Eleanor. Nfirea would be driving the cart and guiding it whilst Ninya sat with the supplies, with Peter guarding the left-hand side of the cart and Dyne the right-hand side, and finally Momon and Nabe would act as rear-guards in case anyone tried to ambush them from behind.

Once this was all settled, they finally departed from E-Rantel in good spirits and started to follow the road to the north. It would, according to Nfirea, take them the rest of today and tomorrow morning to get to Carne at the steady pace the cart was setting. Even if they'd hoped for a slightly shorter journey time so that the quest could be finished sooner, both Momon and Alfred didn't seem to mind. After all, both were in a good mood having discovered not only Ninya's talents but also Nfirea's special ability, and the journey there and back, along with the time they spent in Carne Village, would allow them to get to know the pair, along with the rest of the Swords of Darkness, better and set the stage for their future plans. And seeing that both their Lord and Crown Prince were content put both Nabe and Eleanor at ease, even if they had to endure the company of such lowly humans for a time. Being in the company of the man they loved was also helping in this endeavour.

The first part of the journey was pretty unspectacular. No enemies were on the road and the terrain was easy to navigate, allowing the group to relax and enjoy the beautiful grasslands and scenery around them. For the Swords and Nfirea it was nothing special, but Momon and Alfred, having never experienced being around actual grass and rivers before, were doing their best not to let their awe at the surroundings overwhelm them. The only slight hassle, if one could call it that, was Lukrut's almost constant flirting with Nabe and Eleanor, but after a while the girls learnt to either ignore it or throw some polite insults back in the hunter's direction, causing the man to sputter and the likes of Dyne, Ninya and Alfred to chuckle good-humouredly.

Eventually, they did take a short rest break by a stream to allow the horses pulling the cart a chance to have a drink and for the Swords and Nfirea to fill the skins they'd been drinking from. So as not to arouse suspicion, Alfred also did the same for himself and the others even though they technically didn't need to drink whilst the others were content to sit and admire the running water and wildlife that passed them by.

(Isn't this amazing, Suzi? We're seeing proper grass and touching actual running water coming directly from a stream, not that filtered crap we had to put up with back in our world. Isn't this just the best?) Alfred finally spoke up privately with his guildmate as he passed them their water skins back.

(When you put it like that, it really does sound wonderful, Ise) Momon couldn't help but chuckle at how easily enthused his friend was, even if he was feeling the same way. (Even with all those documentaries and images we saw of what the Earth used to be like, along with all the environments we experienced in the games we played…it's not the same as experiencing the real thing. Could you imagine how Blue Planet would react to this?)

(He'd be in heaven…it was his dream to one day exist in a world as beautiful as this, which is why he spent so much time crafting the landscape and sky on the Sixth Floor) Alfred mused as he took a swig of his waterskin and almost convulsed in sheer pleasure at the taste. (Damn Suzi, I wish you were able to taste this…I've never drunk anything so pure and refreshing in my life!)

(I'll take your word for it) Even if he was a little envious that his friend could taste the water and he couldn't, Momon didn't want to bring down the mood by harping on about it, and thankfully he was prevented from musing too much as Peter stood up to address them all.

"I hope you've all enjoyed the rest while you can, because from here on out it might get a little dangerous," he warned them. The rest of the Swords and Nfirea nodded grimly since they were familiar with the territory and the dangers it presented.

"Don't worry about us, we'll be careful," Momon replied confidently. Even though he knew himself, Alfred and the girls would be more than a match for anything that crossed their path, it was best to err on the side of caution.

"That's what we're here for, right? We did take this job under the auspices of being bodyguards after all," Alfred pointed out. "Mr Bareare here wouldn't have hired us otherwise." This drew nods and smiles from the likes of Dyne and Ninya, whilst Nfirea found himself more at ease upon hearing the gallant knight's words.

True to form, however, Lukrut couldn't help but start flirting with the girls again. "Try not to look so concerned, ladies," he spoke up in his attempt at being romantic but instead coming across as a leery pervert. "Everything will be alright as long as you have me out there keeping an eye on things. I'm the best tracker this side of the Re-Estize Kingdom!" His gaze shifted between both girls, expecting one or both of them to at least compliment him, but upon getting nothing he continued to dig his own grave. "No need to be shy, you can praise me whenever you'd like!"

"Sir Momon…permission to squeeze his neck?" Nabe casually asked, deliberately averting her gaze from the desperate human.

"Not granted, Nabe. Please compose yourself," Momon replied almost mechanically.

"I apologise, Sir Momon," Nabe demurred with a small bow. "But in my experience, mosquitos such as this should be dispatched without mercy. Please inform me if your wishes change and I will see to it immediately."

"Hear that, Lukrut? You're nothing but a mosquito now!" Peter ribbed his friend as the Swords, Alfred and Nfirea all shared a chuckle at Nabe's latest insult.

"So harsh! But it's okay gorgeous, I know you lovely ladies still want me!" Lukrut replied without shame.

(If I didn't know him better, I'd say the guy's a masochist. He's almost asking for the girls to rip his nuts off!) Alfred said whilst doing his best to contain his amusement at the hunter's antics. He'd long passed the point of being annoyed about it since between him and Lukrut, both Nabe and Eleanor would choose him every day of the week.

Ninya took the opportunity to change the topic to prevent her comrade from talking himself into a bigger hole. "You know, where we're sitting is actually considered the territory of the Wise King of the Forest, which is another reason why we ought to be on guard from here on out," she spoke up, her words drawing both Momon and Alfred's attention.

"Who is this…Wise King of the Forest?" Momon asked curiously.

"Legends say that it's a very old and powerful magical creature," Nfirea spoke up as he began to reattach the horses' reins to the cart. "Not only can it cast magic, but it's also said to be physically strong. And if its four, razor-sharp claws don't finish you off, it's snake-tail surely will."

"Aye, many unwary adventurers have fallen foul of its strength," Dyne commented as he got to his feet. "Now that we're passing through its territory, we'll need to be extra careful like Peter said." Nothing further was said out loud as the group of travellers all got to their feet and, once the horses were tied back up to the cart, set off once again.

(Wise King of the Forest, eh?) Momon privately said to Alfred as they resumed their respective positions in the convoy. (Sounds like a good opportunity to see what manner of creatures lurk in this world. We ought to try and find it given the chance)

(IF we get the chance) Alfred replied dryly. (If it's as powerful as Nfirea said, I bet Aura's already tracked it down and is thinking of ways to capture it as we speak)

~TNT~

Once they were on the move again, Momon decided to strike up a conversation with Ninya. After all, he was curious to know what level of magic was considered the standard for people of this world and the young magic-caster seemed like his best source of information, and it would help him get to know her a little bit at the same time. After a quick mental communication with his companion, Alfred and Eleanor swapped to the rear for the time being which allowed Momon and Nabe to take position in front of the horses. He then asked Peter if he could temporarily take his place to speak to Ninya, which the young leader didn't mind as it would allow him to keep an eye on Lukrut in case the hunter tried to keep flirting with Nabe.

"Miss Ninya…if you don't mind, could I ask you a few questions about magic?" He asked the young spell-caster, who jumped slightly at the sudden question before realising who was asking.

"Not at all, but if you don't mind my asking…why ask me and not Miss Nabe? She appears more capable than I and might be able to help you better," she replied.

"A fair point…after all, Nabe can cast advanced tiers of magic," Momon worded his answer carefully in order to remain vague. As one of the strongest among the Pleiades, Narberal could cast up to Tier 7 levels of magic, but he didn't want to be common knowledge just yet. What was more important right now was to ascertain both Ninya's and other mages' levels of magic. "But her proficiency is with lightning magic, and as such she is limited in what she can use. Besides, we come from another continent and the tier system there might be different from yours so I was hoping a native spell-caster of your talents could inform me of what levels of magic we could encounter here. After all, foreknowledge of these things will keep us safe in the long run."

"That makes sense," Ninya reasoned. "I don't know what else I can tell you that you might not already know, but from what I've read, Tier Magic, which is the most widely used system of magic at least in this continent, was first utilised by the Six Great Gods to defend humanity from the monstrous beings that threatened it. Given how effective it was, Tier Magic was then introduced as our world's law of magic, with more people beginning to adopt its practices over other forms such as Wild Magic and Runecraft thanks to the efforts of the Eight Greed Kings, some of whom were capable of using the highest tiers of magic that most of us can only dream of."

"I see," Momon used. Tier Magic was the magic system that had been used by players in YGGDRASIL, and from what Ninya was saying it would appear that it was alive and thriving as the common form of magic in this new world also. But hearing the terms Wild Magic and Runecraft piqued his curiosity since he'd never come across those in all his time playing the game. "Tell me, why is Tier Magic more used than those other two branches you mentioned?"

"From what I remember, both Wild Magic and Runecraft can only be used by certain races," Ninya clarified. "For example, the dwarves both created and are the only known race that can use Runecraft spells, whilst Wild Magic is said to be so rare that is only wielded by the Dragon Lords."

"Hmmm…interesting," Momon used. In just this short stretch of conversation, he'd been opened up to realms of magic that he'd never have known about outside of YGGDRASIL. He and the others would have to be on the lookout for any possible interactions with the Dwarves and these Dragon Lords in order to learn more about them. "Can you also give me any insight into these 'talents' that Peter bought up and which you and Nfirea here possess?"

This caused Ninya to blush slightly in embarrassment. "Apparently it's very rare to be born with one, and from what I've read about them they are fixed at birth and cannot be changed or taught to other people," she eventually explained once she'd gotten over her blush. "It allows us to manifest a unique power, but the abilities we gain through it are not related to a person's normal talent."

"So if, for example, someone was born with the talent to boost the power of magic spells, but didn't show an inclination or aptitude towards it and instead favoured a skill like Martial Arts, then they wouldn't be able to make use of that talent, correct?" Alfred interjected from behind the cart, having been listening with half an ear to their conversation since, like Momon, he too was curious to learn more about this world's magic.

"Correct, Mr Alfred, which is why a lot of people don't think talents are that important," Ninya answered. "In the case of myself and Mr Bareare, we are both very fortunate that our talents match up with our chosen professions. As you heard earlier, my talent allows me to learn spells faster than most, meaning that I could master a spell that would normally take six months to learn properly in three, which is the reason why I can already use Second Tier magic even though I'm still so young."

"I see, and what's the highest known tier of magic in these parts?" Momon asked for clarification.

"Most magic-casters are only capable of casting First and Second Tier magic, but there are those among some of the platinum-ranked adventurers we've come across who are capable of casting Third Tier spells," Ninya answered. "But I have heard rumours that many among the Thirteen Heroes and Eight Greed Kings were capable of casting up to Sixth Tier Magic and that the most powerful sorcerers in the other two human kingdoms are capable of casting up to Fifth Tier Magic."

"In other words, not as powerful as what we were capable of in YGGDRASIL…" Momon thought to himself since he and the other skilled magic casters of Ainz Ooal Gown such as Tabula and Ulbert had been capable of using Ninth, Tenth and Super-tier spells. Whilst what Ninya shared was useful in establishing what the denizens of this world were capable of, it was also a bit of a jab to what remained of his heart as it all but confirmed what he, Henry and Fengxian had already feared was the case: They were the only ones from the former Ainz Ooal Gown here in this world. "I'm just glad Ise and Ki were there with me…I shudder to think how I would've dealt with all of this had I been alone…" He was torn from his musings by the sight of Nabe's slender form beginning to tremble in anger which, combined with the exasperated sighs he could hear coming from Peter, meant that Lukrut still hadn't cottoned on that his continued flirting was getting on the girl's nerves. "I'd better go and calm her down before she blows a gasket…" "Thank you for your indulgence Ninya, but I think I need to go and calm Nabe down before she kills Lukrut."

"You are welcome, Mr Momon," Ninya replied with a smile as the black-armoured warrior made his way back to the front of the convoy where, as he suspected, Lukrut's attempts at wooing Nabe were not only continuing but were also becoming more invasive. But even as he resumed his place next to Nabe, allowing Peter to return to guarding the left-hand side of the cart, nothing could have prepared him for what the bold tracker spewed out next.

"So what you're telling me…is that you and Momon are lovers, just like Alfred and Eleanor back there?" Lukrut asked. Despite how innocent the question sounded, the way the pervy hunter said it was enough to push Nabe over the edge and shatter what composure she had left.

"I never even said that, so stop putting words in my mouth!" She shouted, utter disgust joining her fury at the mere thought of her and her father-in-law in such a position. Treason of the highest order against her beloved not to mention practically incest! "I am already pledged to my Lord Constantine and he is the only one I need by my-!" Whatever she was about to say was cut off as Momon quickly put a hand over her mouth to halt her tirade.

"Control yourself, Nabe!" He hissed furiously in her ear, since their conversation was during curious glances from Nfirea and Ninya, as he turned and pinned Lukrut with a smouldering glare. "As for you, Mr Lukrut, I would advise you to discontinue your attempts to delve into our personal lives, unless you want me to silence you permanently."

"Uh…sure, if that's what you want, I guess," Lukrut replied, momentarily confused. However, it only took him a few seconds to regain his usual swagger. "Though from the sound of it, whoever that fella is she's already with is a lucky man."

"If only you knew, buddy…" Alfred had merely been content to observe these goings-on without being worried in the slightest at Lukrut's advances since he not only trusted Nabe's devotion to him but also Momon to keep a handle on things should they get out of hand.

"I'm really sorry Mr Momon, Miss Nabe…he can be really idiotic sometimes, in fact a lot of the time, but I promise he doesn't mean any harm by it. This is just how he is." Peter apologised on his companion's behalf.

"It's fine, just as long as he's careful and minds his words from now on," Momon replied generously. "If he continues to anger my female companions though, I make no apologies for what will come next."

"Make no mistake, Lukrut's a damn fine tracker and his skills have gotten us out of many dangerous situations in the past, but if he worked on them the way he does on his flirting techniques, he'd be one of the best throughout the land," Dyne added. "And Lukrut, I'd advise you to heed Mr Momon's warning. Their personal lives are their own, and you really ought to stop prying into theirs and others' business."

"Yeah yeah I get it…I'll do my best to-" Whatever apology was on Lukrut's tongue was cut off as he immediately raised a hand to halt the convoy, his keen eyes having spotted a flicker of movement on the horizon. "Hold up…we've got company coming towards us."

"How many, and from which direction?" Peter asked, instantly on alert.

"Just past the treeline," Lukrut said, indicating a point off to their left-hand side, and as everyone's gaze followed the ranger's finger they got a good view of the incoming horde that was just bursting out of the forest. Leading the charge were a gang of what were unmistakably goblins, about 40 or so in number, and what was surprising to both Momon and Alfred was that, unlike in YGGDRASIL, each of these goblins looked as though they had their own unique appearance along with individual sets of armour and weapons. One or two of them wore lighter armour and had bows strapped across their diminutive backs, but the majority of them carried short swords and axes and were covered in plate armour.

The ten hulking monsters charging alongside them, however, were more worrisome. It was simple to determine that these were ogres given their size of about 10 feet, warty brown skin, and a substantial amount of muscle on their bodies. A little bit more troublesome than the goblins, but nothing Momon and the others couldn't handle. Momon was confident that he or Alfred could defeat this group by themselves and escape unharmed, but because they were acting like an adventurer group, they would have to include the girls in the action while being careful not to use all of their strength.

"I don't think there's any way we can avoid this fight…Look, they're already splitting up to surround us," Lukrut indicated. Just as he'd stated, the majority of the goblins and ogres were heading straight towards them whilst a smaller bunch were peeling off to attack the cart from another direction.

"Mr Bareare, make sure to keep yourself hidden and out of sight. We'll do our best to keep them off you." Nfirea didn't need Peter to tell him twice as he immediately ducked for cover amidst his supplies. "Mr Momon, Mr Alfred…any ideas how we should play this?"

"Have the Swords of Darkness establish defensive positions in and around the cart," Alfred instructed as he and Eleanor joined the others. "Lukrut, take a position on top of the supplies next to Ninya. You two will have a good view and angle of attack should the enemies come close. Peter, Dyne, you stay down here and mop up any stragglers who come close."

"Got it. What about you four?" The leader of the Swords asked.

"We'll attack them head-on and divert their attention away from the cart," Momon spoke up as he, Alfred and the girls started to walk forward. "We should be able to take out them quite easily. Please handle any stragglers you miss."

"That sounds…Hold up, you can't be thinking of taking all of them out by yourself?!" The young man exclaimed. "Allow us to help you thin their numbers at least."

(Let them, Suzi.) Alfred intervened before Momon could retort. (Even if we know we can take them ourselves, it looks better on us if we at least accept their help)

"Agreed. Lukrut, Ninya, do your best to slow them down or whittle their numbers as best you can until we get in close," Momon relented.

"Got it!" "W-Will do!" The two replied.

"And should any get past you or them, Dyne and I should be to deal with them," Peter acceded. "Aside from that, they're all yours."

"Just sit back and enjoy the show. You'll get to see why Nfirea paid good money for our services," Alfred added as he unhooked his sword and shield from his back. (How do you wanna play this, Suzi?) He privately asked his friend.

(You and Alb-I mean Eleanor take point on the main group. I'll deal with the ones trying to flank us and Nabe can help them out their numbers with lightning magic. Sound good?)

(You can count on me) Alfred replied confidently. (By the way, I saw what you did there with Narberal and Lukrut…well played)

(I can't hide anything from you, can I, Ise?) Momon chuckled as he drew his swords. "Should've known he'd see through it so easily"

(Oh please, it was kind of obvious, otherwise you'd have gotten Lukrut to stop ages ago) Alfred deduced as they approached the hordes of enemies. (You were banking on him to needle Narberal enough so that she'd let slip my name with Nfirea's hearing, and then made a show of telling both her and Lukrut off afterwards for everyone's benefit. Now we just have to hope that girl we saved and her sister are the close friends Nfirea was talking about. Even if they aren't, we've already ensured he's going to be asking us questions with that potion we slipped that adventurer earlier…all part of your grand plan, right?) His tone had turned to teasing at that last rhetorical question.

(Yeah yeah…let's just focus on the bad guys for now) Momon grumbled before opening up the Message communication to both Nabe and Eleanor. (Eleanor, you will go with Alfred to hold off the main horde. Nabe, I want you to use your Lightning magic to reduce their numbers, but make sure you use nothing stronger than Tier Four magic, understood?)

(As you wish, my lord) Both ladies replied. Eleanor unhooked her spear and matched steps with Alfred as the two of them broke into a jog towards the main group of enemies while Momon turned his attention to the few trying to flank them. But even as he took a step towards them, he saw both a physical and magical arrow shoot overhead and take down their targets courtesy of Lukrut and Ninya respectively.

"Perfect…whatever makes my job a little easier." "Whenever you are ready, Nabe."

"Gladly. Chain Lightning." From her fingers came small arcs of lightning that burnt holes through the chests of one of the remaining ogres and several goblins, causing them to collapse on the spot.

"Well done, Nabe. Go and assist Alfred and Eleanor. I'll clean up the rest here." With these words, Momon leapt mightily into the air towards one of the two remaining ogres. The creature chuckled humorously at this human's intent and raised the club in his hands to block it, only for Momon's blades to slice effortlessly through both the ogre's weapon and its body as he bisected it at the waist, sending both halves of its body crashing lifelessly to the floor.

"Wow, that was amazing…" Ninya breathed, awed.

"No way…just how strong are these guys?!" Peter exclaimed as he turned his gaze to where Alfred and Eleanor were engaging the rest of the horde, and his eyes widened at the display. Wielding a gleaming silver sword in one hand and a shield in the other, Alfred was effortlessly alternating between deflecting blows and quick and precise sword strikes that were thinning the goblin numbers rapidly. As Peter watched, Alfred quickly shifted his attention to an ogre that was threatening to strike Eleanor's blind side as the girl was doing her part, covering Alfred's back and thinning the goblin numbers with effective thrusts and twirls of her spear. The ogre roared at the silver-armoured warrior's defiance as he brought his club down with enough force to crush him flat, only for Alfred's shield to successfully catch and hold back the attack.

"Eleanor! Now!" He shouted to his companion.

"Right!" Without halting her momentum, she skewered the goblin she'd been fighting before leaping up onto the ogre's arm. With its weapon still occupied by Alfred's shield, the ogre was unable to stop the female warrior from running up its arm and onto its broad shoulders where she proceeded to jab her weapon through its head and out the other side. As the ogre collapsed, she effortlessly leapt off its falling corpse and used the momentum to sweep aside a few more goblins as she resumed her place covering Alfred's back.

"They are incredibly in sync. If we didn't know better, I'd swear they were at least orichalcum or platinum-ranked adventurers," Dyne commented.

"Y-yeah, remind me never to piss them off again," Lukrut said shakily, his eyes on Momon who was tearing his way effortlessly through the goblins that remained on his side. Even when the cowardly creatures attempted to flee, Momon showed no mercy and threw one of his swords that skewered them right through their backs…all except… "Hey! Don't think I see you over there!" He exclaimed as he noticed a goblin that Momon had missed attempting to flee down the track. Even though the goblin had already gotten quite far, it was still within the tracker's range. One arrow nock and release later saw that particular goblin join his brethren in death.

"Good shot, Lukrut," Peter complimented, only to have his attention diverted by Momon's mighty roar. As he and the others looked over their eyes widened at the pile of ogre and goblin corpses at the man's feet.

"Is that all?! How disappointing!" Momon exclaimed, the battle lust still upon him. Even if they were low-levelled creatures, dispatching them all so effortlessly was exhilarating! Melee combat may not be his forte, but right now, in the heat of battle, he could understand why the likes of Fengxian and Takemikazuchi had enjoyed it so much. Without another word, he charged over to where Alfred and Eleanor were still mopping up their enemies. The two had already put paid to nearly all of the goblins, aided by Nabe and her lightning magic, and were currently dealing with the last of the ogres. "Alfred! Leave one for me!"

"Fine by me! Eleanor, we'll take these last two together!" Alfred replied as an exhilarated laugh left his lips. "I'm all fired up!" As small sparks of flame left his mouth, unnoticed by all, he batted another ogre's strike away with his shield before slashing a wide arc across its chest, sending it sprawling to the ground like its comrades. At the same time, Eleanor nimbly dodged and weaved through the other ogre's clumsy swipes before seizing an opening and stabbing it in the eye. As the creature cried out in pain and dropped its club, the female warrior swiped her spear up and beheaded it.

"Come on ugly, at least give me a challenge!" Momon shouted as he blocked, parried and dodged the last remaining ogre's frustrated swipes with its club. To an untrained eye, it may seem like the ogre had the armoured warrior on the ropes, but the reality was that the Lord of Nazarick was merely toying with it. After a short while though he became bored and effortlessly loped off both of its arms causing it to bellow in pain. "Nabe? Fry this fucker!"

"As you wish, Sir Momon. Lightning!" This time a single, but much larger, bolt of lightning shot forth from the tip of her finger and impacted against the ogre's armour, causing it to cook and sizzle so rapidly that the ogre didn't have a chance to react before his body shrivelled into charred dust at Momon's feet.

"And that…is how you do it!" A blood-splattered Momon called out exuberantly before turning to his companions. Their armour and weapons were also caked in goblin and ogre blood, but both were relatively unharmed. Eleanor's expression as ever remained stoic beneath her hood, but from the way his friend's body was trembling Momon could tell that Alfred had been having just as much fun as him. (How'd you find that, Ise?) He asked, although given that his friend had once again invoked the spirit of a literal hot-headed salmon-haired anime protagonist, the answer was obvious.

(Exhilarating!) His friend replied. Judging by his tone, his companion was only just coming down from his own battle-lust. (Even if these things were weak as hell, it was a good workout at least! Plus it allowed us to show off for our erstwhile companions back there!)

(Indeed, and judging by their looks, I bet they don't know whether to be impressed or terrified of us. Either way, great way to make a first impression!) Momon chuckled as another sight caught his eye (And they aren't the only ones…)

If Alfred had chosen to look behind him, he would have witnessed both Nabe and Eleanor breathing a little heavier and wearing a small blush on their cheeks even as they tried to retain their stoicism, for the sight of their beloved slashing his way through the horde of filth had set their hearts and loins afire. For Eleanor, it was for seeing her darling look so cool and strong whilst dancing his way through a macabre of blood and guts, whilst for Nabe it had been the sight of her beloved looking so gallant and heroic whilst facing down the monsters that had made her weak at the knees. If it hadn't been for the company they were keeping, either would have gladly jumped and subjected him to some hot and heavy post-slaughter sex, so it was probably a good thing Alfred didn't notice otherwise he might have had his way with them upon seeing the state they were in, company and circumstances be damned.

As the four of them walked back towards Nfirea's cart, both Momon and Alfred had to restrain themselves from laughing upon seeing the stunned looks etched on the faces of all four Swords of Darkness. "All enemies pacified; area secure. We can carry on our journey whenever you're ready," Alfred stated.

Maybe it was due to the matter-of-fact way he said it, or the absurdity of his statement given the slaughter that had just taken place, but after a moment of stunned silence the Swords of Darkness all broke into laughter at Alfred's words, shortly followed by Momon and then Alfred himself. Only Nabe and Eleanor didn't join in.

"That's it? Enemies pacified and area secured?" Peter almost wheezed as he stopped his chuckles. "You two are something else, let me tell you!"

"If we didn't already know you were copper plates, I would've sworn that you were all ranked higher by that display alone," Dyne added with a small chuckle. "That was an awe-inspiring display of strength and teamwork that I think all adventurer groups should aspire to."

"Did you have to show off that much though? Could've left a few more for us to clear up!" Despite the accusing manner of Lukrut's words, his tone and expression were full of mirth as he said it.

As for Ninya, she was looking at them all with a mixture of adoration and hunger. From her vantage point, she'd borne witness to the whole thing and had seen Lady Nabe cast a Tier Four spell! If that was what she was already capable of, and from her stance and demeanour it looked as though she'd been holding back, Ninya found herself aching to question and learn from the stoic magic-caster.

"All that matters is that the situation has been dealt with, and we can continue on to Carne Village when we're ready," Momon stated promptly. As he spoke, there was a small rustle from within the cart as Nfirea's mop of hair poked out from under the tarpaulin.

"I-is it safe for me to come out yet?" The boy asked nervously, which drew another round of chuckles from the Swords, Momon and Alfred.

~TNT~

The company of nine set off in good spirits after cleaning up after the battle and taking their share of body parts from the dead goblins and ogres to hand back at the guild. They drove until dusk, when the sun began to set, and then looked for a nice sheltered spot to camp, one that was not too far from the road but also had plenty of natural shelters to protect them from any unnatural weather phenomena.

It didn't take Lukrut long to find them a suitable location, and once there, they set up camp. Though both Nabe and Eleanor privately complained to Momon and Alfred about their masters performing so-called 'servant work' that they thought was unworthy of them, they acquiesced and raised no further objections when both men pointed out that, as adventurers, it was critical that everyone pitched in to ensure the group's survival, and it would do them no good to be seen as arrogant and rude while establishing their reputation as a powerful force.

Both men understood why they thought that way, especially Nabe because it was her duty back in the Tomb to be a maid and perform such servant-like duties. It was undoubtedly jarring and vexing for both ladies to see the Lord and Crown Prince of the Great Tomb stoop to onery tasks like gathering wood, building tents and catching food to eat around a campfire alongside, in their eyes, lowly humans, but as long as they kept these attitudes to themselves and didn't project them outwards, it was something else that could be addressed once they returned to Nazarick. After all, if they were to continue posing as adventurers, they would no doubt be interacting with more humans than just the Swords and Nfirea, and so it would be up to both men to make sure the ladies gave more thought to their words and actions around them since one slip-up could set them back and raise suspicions.

But for now, both ladies seemed to be following their orders and minding their mouths as much as possible. Besides, Momon and Alfred were having too much fun to let that put a damper on things. Being out in the wild, camping under the stars and eating food around a campfire…these were the simple things that had been missing from their world for too long and they were determined to make the most of it as long as it lasted.

Ninya and Dyne got to work preparing a large tub of broth enough for all nine of them to eat, and once it was passed around the group ate in reflective silence. Only Momon left his food unfinished because he couldn't eat it, which he justified by citing a religious tradition about not eating in the presence of others on the same day as taking a life. Because it was a 'foreign custom' that the Swords were unaware of, they accepted it as truth. Alfred had no reservations as he guzzled down the broth with gusto, and even Eleanor and Nabe both acknowledged that the food was 'acceptable', which was high praise from them.

As they finished eating, Alfred bought up something that had been on his mind for a while. "I hope you don't mind, but why did you guys come up with the name Swords of Darkness?" He asked the four of them. "It sounds like the name of an evil-aligned party which is the furthest thing from you guys, nor do you wield black blades."

"Ah, I was wondering if that was going to come up," Lukrut smirked before indicating Ninya. "Why don't you tell 'em, Spell-Caster?"

"Don't tease me, Lukrut!" the young girl stammered indignantly. "I was young and naïve, and it's probably never going to come true anyway!"

"Nonsense, Ninya, it's nothing to be embarrassed about," Dyne gently reminded her, causing the girl's embarrassed expression to lift somewhat.

"Someone once told me that it's better to have an impossible dream than no dream at all, so don't be too down about it, young Ninya," Momon told her kindly. "Anything is possible should you put your mind to it, and seeing the people you surround yourself with I have no doubt you will one day achieve it, no matter what it takes." Momon's words drew a smile from everyone present, even Nabe and Eleanor who couldn't hide their awe and respect at their leader's wise words.

(Eloquently put, my friend) Alfred commented.

(It needed to be said…it's always good to have a dream to aim for, and from what I've seen so far she will do great things if she keeps aspiring to it) Momon reflected.

Peter was kind enough to spare Ninya's blushes. "It's a reference to some of the old legends, the ones about the Thirteen Heroes," he explained. "We named our party after the swords used by one of them."

"Crap! I don't know what to say in response! They probably expect us to know all about them, but if we say we don't know anything we'll end up looking bad!" Momon internally panicked.

"U-um, forgive me for asking but…w-who are these Thirteen Heroes?" Eleanor asked in her practised timid voice, drawing stunned stares from both the Swords and Nfirea since she'd hardly spoken a word for the entire trip until now. "S-since we come from so far away, some of the legends you know are unfamiliar to us."

"Thank Kami for Albedo's quick thinking and smarts. I'll have to reward her for that when we get back to Nazarick." Alfred thought, relieved.

"I suppose that makes sense, even if they are well known," Ninya spoke up. "Among the Thirteen Heroes was a fearsome warrior known as the Black Knight who wielded four powerful blades that were known only as the Swords of Darkness."

"When we started our group, our ultimate objective was to find these Swords for ourselves one day," Peter resumed as he reached into his pack, drawing out a small black knife from its scabbard. "But we needed a symbol of our own in the meantime, so we carry these daggers as placeholders."

"I don't care if these things aren't the real deal. To me, they are a reminder of our team coming together in the first place and the adventures we've shared ever since, and that's more important to me than any mythical blade," Lukrut added in an unusually reflective tone as he held his dagger up, with Ninya and Dyne doing the same with their own small blades.

"I think that's the first time I've ever heard something so poignant and deep-meaning come out of your mouth, Lukrut," Dyne teased.

"Oi, take that back!" The tracker exclaimed indignantly.

"Who are you and what have you done with our friend?" Peter joined in as both Ninya and Nfirea giggled at their antics.

"Shut up! I'm a silver-tongued fox and you know it!" Lukrut shouted, which only served to make everyone laugh even more.

"This takes me back to the good old days when all of the old crew was still around…" Momon reflected as he watched the Swords and Nfirea continue to banter with each other. "We all adventured together, collected materials and built Nazarick as one united group of friends, all whilst sharing stories and laughter with one another. Those were the best times of my life…I just wish they could have lasted forever." His gaze then settled on Alfred who was sitting next to Eleanor and seemed to be listening intently to what they were saying. "But…even if they are all gone, at least I'm not alone in this world. I have Henry and Fengxian, along with the Guardians, the Pleiades and the rest of the people inside Nazarick to look out for me and keep me company. It might not be the same as having all of my friends back, but given the alternative…I wouldn't change it for anything." As if sensing his thoughts and his gaze, Alfred turned his helm to look in Momon's direction and nodded as if he'd heard and agreed with his thoughts.

"Amazing things do tend to happen when you share the same goal. Alfred and I can both speak from experience," Momon added as the conversation started to die down, causing everyone to turn their gazes in his direction.

"Were you and Mr Alfred on a team before this one, Mr Momon?" Ninya asked.

"We hadn't become adventurers at the time, but yes…you could say we were both part of one," Alfred said.

"I wasn't always the towering bastion of strength and heroism you see before you right now. A long while ago, when I was weak and alone…a knight clad in white armour saved my life, the very same armour our friend Alfred is wearing right now." The Swords and Nfirea's eyes all turned to Alfred, but he shook his head as if to clarify he wasn't the warrior in question. "He led me to the people I would eventually call my comrades, Alfred among them. And my, they were the most eccentric bunch of people you could ever meet: A genius who dabbled in alchemy, an archer with very…questionable and mature interests…" Momon's gaze couldn't help but go over to Lukrut as he said this. "…and his sister who was a talented performer and singer, a warrior who constantly strived to surpass his rival, the white-armoured knight who saved me, to name but a few. Meeting them…changed me forever"

"They were the best group of allies we could have ever asked for, and even dearer friends, especially the knight in white armour who saved Momon, and it was his example that led to Momon saving me when I needed it the most. Aside from Momon here, I considered him my dearest friend and mentor who taught me a lot. In honour of his ideals, and to remember all he did for me, I wear this armour and wield this sword and shield he personally handed to me," Alfred added in an unusually sombre tone. "Momon and I will never ever forget the days we spent among them as long as we live, the best days of our lives."

"Ainz Ooal Gown…the guild, and its members…they were the world to me…" Both Momon and Alfred thought to themselves simultaneously.

Both Nabe and Eleanor were listening intently to Momon and Alfred's stories. They'd had no idea how their Lord and Crown Prince had first met, but ever since their Lord Constantine had joined Ainz Ooal Gown, the pair had become almost inseparable along with Fengxian once he'd joined. It was also their first time hearing about Lord Touch Me had been responsible for saving Lord Ainz, who in turn saved their beloved thus bringing them to the guild in the first place. Combined with the reverence their beloved seemed to hold for the one-time strongest member of Ainz Ooal Gown, it was enough for the two to sub-consciously better their opinion of the paladin, even if they still held some lingering resentment towards him and the others for not joining their beloved, along with Lord Ainz and Lord Fengxian, in this new world.

Ninya had also been listening intently to the men's stories, sparking inside her the hope that she could have similar experiences with not only her present comrades but any adventurers she met in the future. "They sound like amazing people, Mr Momon," she said kindly. "And I'm sure you, Mr Alfred, Miss Nabe and Miss Eleanor will find more companions like that again someday."

Even though Ninya's words weren't meant to offend, it still snapped something inside the normally affable Momon. "The day will never come!" He exclaimed sharply. "Nearly all of them left, and those who remained are the only ones I need!" The sudden outburst startled everyone present, even Alfred who knew him better than anyone was shocked, and caused Ninya's expression and eyes to sadden.

It took Momon a few seconds to realise he'd snapped unnecessarily. He knew Ninya hadn't meant to be hurtful with her words, so he couldn't understand why his mood had shifted so dramatically like that. It was moments like these where he wished he'd chosen a different race to play as the constant suppression of his more positive emotions wasn't doing him any favours right now. "And maybe I'm not as over the others leaving as I thought it was…" "Dyne, Ninya, dinner was lovely…if you'll excuse me, I just need a moment alone." Without another word, he got up and walked away from the fire.

"Sorry about that," Alfred apologised to the others. "The memory of what happened is still fresh and he often has trouble coping with it. I'll go and check on him, and hopefully he'll be alright by morning. Thank you again for dinner." With those words, he too got up and walked away from the camp in the direction Momon had been heading, eventually finding him a little way off from the camp sat facing away from him on top of a large rock.

"Hey there, big guy. You doing okay?" He asked as he drew up alongside him.

"I'm fine…I'm sorry you had to see that," Momon apologised as he turned to face him. "I know Ninya didn't mean any harm with what she said but…it's only been a week, Ise. I miss them all."

"You don't have to apologise. I miss them as well," Alfred told him as he took a seat on a smaller rock opposite his friend. "You're not the only one who sometimes feels angry that they all left, because I do as well, and I'm sure Ki does as well. And how could we not? We built the guild and the Great Tomb between us all, sacrificing months and years of our lives in the process, so for them to leave as they did…I can understand why since some of them, like Touch Me and Bukubukuchagama, had more to their lives than just the game, but it still hurt, and the casual and dismissive manner in which some of them left…that irks me the most…" Momon could tell he was referring to Ulbert, and to a lesser extent HeroHero, when he said that. "But you aren't alone, Suzi. I'm still here, as is Ki, and as long as the three of us are here, the memories of what we did together and the good times we shared will never die so long as we hold them in our hearts, which in a way…guarantees that they'll never truly leave us."

Momon nodded at his friend's heartfelt words, recognising the truth in them. So long as they kept the memory and spirit of the guild alive, his friends would never truly be gone. Besides, they had all left behind a permanent legacy in the New World through their created NPCs that were now as real as his friends had been, such as the Guardians, the Pleiades and the rest of the Nazarick dwellers, so even if he wanted to forget them (which he never would), he doubted he'd be able to thanks to their presence. "Thank you, Ise," he said. "I'm really glad you are here with me. Not just you, but Ki, Albedo and everyone else as well, and I'm sorry if it sounded like I cared more about those who are gone instead of those who are here right now."

"As I said, there's no need to say sorry to anyone. Except for Ninya since she didn't deserve your anger," Alfred replied. Momon nodded, resolving to do that first thing in the morning. "And we're glad to have you here as well. It just wouldn't be the same without you here to lead us, just as it was back in the old days, and I know you care for us as much just as every one of us cares and looks out for you, which is why I can promise with confidence that you'll never have to feel alone again."

"It means a lot to hear you say that," Momon said warmly as he rested a hand on his friend's shoulder. "You, Ki, all of Nazarick…you all give me purpose in this new world, and in return I'd do anything to keep you all happy and safe."

Alfred smiled beneath his helm. "I believe you, my friend, and I know you will," he told him, his tone conveying all the respect and affection he held for his oldest and dearest friend. The two then fell into a comfortable silence, content to watch as the moon slowly crept up into the sky overhead.

~TNT~

As Momon and then Alfred both left the area around the fire, Ninya's expression saddened even further at the thought that she'd potentially upset an individual she was coming to admire a great deal, especially after what she'd seen from him earlier that day when they were ambushed. "I-I'm sorry for bringing the mood down, everyone," she murmured into the silence that followed. "But I think I've said something I shouldn't have."

"You weren't to know Ninya, none of us were, and I'm sure Sir Momon isn't truly angry or upset with you," Dyne tried to reassure her. "It's as Sir Alfred said: Whatever happened to him in his past must still be affecting him a great deal. Judging by his reaction, I'm guessing whatever he went through was quite traumatising."

"You think all of those people he was talking about were wiped out?" Peter ventured. "I've seen that reaction before from someone who'd lost all their companions in battle before, and it would explain why he, Sir Alfred and the ladies here decided to leave their home for a fresh start here. I doubt anyone would want to remain somewhere that only brings them painful memories…"

"Nobody died," came the quiet voice of Eleanor, who like Ninya had her knees huddled up against her chin. "Rather, they all left one by one for the simple reason that they simply didn't want to travel with Momon, Alfred and ourselves any more, and it was both the suddenness and lack of explanation for their departure that affected Sir Momon so deeply."

"Sir Momon and Sir Alfred are not just the strong warriors you saw earlier today…they both have big hearts and care deeply about the people closest to them," Nabe added. As much as it pained her to make nice with these humans, she remembered the words of her lord and her beloved about fitting in as best they can. "Having all of the people they cared about just up and leave them like that…it's like Eleanor said, it affected them deeply and sometimes they still have trouble processing it."

"I should have known…I know what it's like to lose the people you care about so suddenly like that," Ninya murmured, tears falling from her eyes as she looked desperately at Nabe. "Do you think he'll ever forgive me, Miss Nabe?"

The Nabe of a few days ago would not have deigned to even spare Ninya a glance, much less an answer. Her beloved was having more of an effect and influence on her behaviour than she'd have ever thought possible, and on top of that she hadn't failed to notice how Ninya had been looking up to her since the earlier ambush alongside her hesitant enquiries regarding the nature of her magic and if she could teach her about it. "Am I actually becoming fond of this insipid little human?" "It's as Mr Dyne said, Miss Ninya. He knows you had no ill intent behind your words, and I'm sure he will personally apologise to you once he's calmed down. For now though, I'd advise all of you here to leave him and Sir Alfred be for the rest of the night, and make sure you don't bring this up with him again." She turned her stern gaze upon everyone else except Eleanor. "That goes for the rest of you too. Have I made myself clear?"

They all nodded immediately, not wanting to risk her wrath. They'd seen what she was capable of on the battlefield and didn't want holes ripped through the chests via a swift lightning bolt. "Good. Now then, Eleanor and I will go and check on them and see if they need anything," she added as both she and the other girl got to her feet. "After that, we will likely retire, so we shall see you all in the morning." With those words, both she and Eleanor left the fire behind, prompting the Swords of Darkness and Nfirea to strike up another topic of conversation in their absence. By maintaining their civility with the humans and not snapping at or harming them unnecessarily, Nabe hoped that both she and Eleanor had done their best to satisfy their lords' wishes.

After all, it was only their orders that were keeping these humans alive in the first place, otherwise she'd have burnt Lukrut to a crisp when he'd declared his love for her at their first meeting.

~TNT~

After a good night's rest and a hearty breakfast, the group broke camp at daybreak and headed back out onto the road to resume their journey to Carne. Before they got underway, and in order to relieve the tension that had settled over the camp after last night's misunderstanding, Ninya had been wary of approaching Momon at first, fearful that the giant warrior might not be in a forgiving mood, but she'd been surprised and delighted when he'd sought her out and apologised for snapping at her the other night. She then offered her own apology for unintentionally upsetting him, and with these issues resolved the group set off in good spirits, resuming the formation they'd adopted the day before.

It took them most of the day to reach the outskirts of the village, but thankfully they weren't set upon by any more gangs of goblins and ogres which put everyone in a good mood. Such was the air of positivity that during one of their breaks to rest the horses, Nabe had shown Ninya a few pointers to get a better grasp on her magic whilst Alfred gave Peter one or two tips on how he could use his shield offensively and defensively.

"We are almost at Carne Village everyone," Nfirea called out eagerly, raising a cheer from the Swords of Darkness and Alfred. He'd greatly enjoyed the company he'd been in for the last day or two and was presently feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness that rose the closer they got to the village knowing who was waiting for him there. But as the group crested the hill and got their first glance (aside from Nfirea and secretly Momon, Alfred and Eleanor) at their destination, they were slightly unnerved by what awaited them.

You wouldn't think the village had been ransacked a week ago judging by how intact all of its buildings were, but what was most alarming to the visitors (or curious in the residents from Nazarick's case) was the large wooden fence that ran all the way around its borders that hadn't been there before.

"H-how strange…that barrier wasn't that there when I last arrived…" Nfirea commented.

"I'm guessing since the attack the residents have decided to take extra precautions," Peter reasoned. "They'll probably be a bit on edge seeing an armed group approach, so let's put our weapons away and approach carefully."

The group did as Peter suggested as they approached the freshly constructed gate that opened slowly on their approach. Before they could enter though, Lukrut suddenly raised his hand to halt the convoy. "Hold up, we've got company." As he spoke, a group of about 10-20 armoured goblins suddenly charged through the gate and arrayed themselves in formation with their weapons raised and teeth bared. "Damnit, I thought I smelled something foul!" The hunter swore as he nocked an arrow to his bow, with Ninya, Dyne and Peter also raising their weapons.

(What the heck?! Why are there goblins here, and why do they look as though they're protecting this place?) Alfred wondered as he prepared to draw his own weapons, only to be stopped by a raised hand and a shake of the head from Momon.

"Everyone calm down, we'd rather avoid crossing swords if we can help," spoke what appeared to be the goblin in charge. He had a gold earring in one of his ears, a sash running diagonally across his chest and a large sword clutched in his hand. "We may outnumber them, but these guys look like they can hold their own. Especially the giant in the back there and the one in silver armour. They're giving me shivers by just looking at them."

"Who the hell are these guys? And how is it that goblins can talk?" Peter wondered as he and the others slowly lowered their weapons.

"As I suspected…" (It's alright, Ise. I think I know what's going on here) Momon reassured his friend as the lead goblin muttered something to one of his comrades.

(You do?) Alfred didn't seem convinced but did as Momon asked as the other goblin ran off somewhere. Eleanor and Nabe had remained as nonplussed as always which also helped ease his mind.

(Yes, and I think our explanation is about to reappear…right now) Momon replied as the goblin returned, escorting a figure that was all too familiar to both Momon and Alfred.

"Is everything alright, sir goblin?" Enri Emmot asked the leader as she approached.

(Isn't that the girl we saved last week?) Alfred asked as he finally realised what was going on. (Looks like she's already used one of the Horns of the Goblin General you gave her.)

(It would seem so) Momon replied. "That explains the wooden fence…but these ones look stronger than your average goblin. How could a girl like her summon such an intelligent force?"

"Enri! Is that you?!" Nfirea suddenly shouted, causing the girl in question to look in their direction. Upon seeing Nfirea, her whole face lit up in a beaming smile.

"Nfirea! It's so good to see you!" She replied as she run up to the cart. "What brings you all the way out here?"

"I-I came here to gather some more ingredients for the shop, a-and to see you," the young man stammered, blushing furiously. "I-I heard the village was attacked and wanted to make sure that you and Nemu are okay…"

"That's so sweet of you, Nfirea," the young girl replied, struggling to hide a blush of her own. "Oh yeah, they each love the other but are too nervous to admit it," Alfred thought to himself with a chuckle. "Come straight on in! We have so much to catch up on, and I want to hear all about what you and your grandmother have been up to since I last saw you!"

"Are you sure about this, boss? Some of these guys give me an uneasy feeling…" the lead goblin said to Enri.

"It's fine, Jugem. Nfirea is a dear friend of mine and I trust him implicitly," she told him. "And if Nfirea trusts these people to guard him, then I'm sure we can trust them not to cause trouble for us." All of the Swords, Momon, Alfred, Eleanor and Nabe nodded quickly to confirm Enri's words.

With the initial dressing down out of the way, the group and their cart passed through the gate escorted by the goblin troop. Although the Swords were wary of being guarded by goblins, they had come to trust Nfirea, and if Nfirea trusted this girl who seemed to be in charge of the goblins then that was okay by them. Besides, Lukrut had managed to get Nfirea to admit he was crushing on a girl here last night around the fire, and judging by their reactions to one another this appeared to be the girl in question. Naturally, they'd have plenty of embarrassing questions for the stammering young herbalist once they next had him alone.

Once everyone was inside the village perimeter, Enri immediately took Nfirea's hand and led him away to her house, leaving everyone else to escort the cart to a safe place. But as the Swords and the goblins started leading the cart towards the village centre, Alfred and Momen momentarily paused as a familiar female voice entered their heads.

(Lord Ainz? Lord Constantine? Is that you, Lady Albedo and Narberal I've just seen enter the village?) Lupusregina asked via Message.

(It is indeed. We've come here on an escort mission for a client) Momon answered.

(Hello there, my darling little wolf. I've missed you so much!) Alfred flirted. Even via Message, he could hear the shuddering moan his voice caused her to utter.

(I've missed you too, my beloved Crown Prince) she all but purred in response before switching back to business mode (My lords, permission to make my report in person?)

(Granted. Is there a safe place we can talk privately?) Momon asked.

(Yes, there's a small hidden rise if you follow the path round to your left. Hardly anyone in the village goes over there so we should be safe to talk privately) she responded.

"Peter! The four of us are going to walk around the village and check it out. We'll catch up with you later, alright?" Momon called out to the leader of the Swords who merely waved in response as he and the rest continued to follow behind the cart. What he said wasn't a total lie since he and Alfred were curious about what sort of progress the village had made in the past few days, but it was as good an excuse as any to slip away.

The group of four followed Lupusregina's instructions and followed the path that wound around to the left of the village and which bordered the fence at the border for a few minutes until they found themselves approaching the small rise that the werewolf had mentioned. As she'd described, it was hidden from sight from the rest of the village by a large storage building and a small pocket of trees. But as they approached, they saw no sign of the red-headed maid.

"We've come to the right place, so where is-?" Whatever Alfred was about to say was interrupted by a shout from behind as he felt a sudden weight leap onto his back and wrap their arms around her next. He was initially caught off guard but relaxed as he caught a whiff of the ambusher's familiar scent.

"Daaaaaaaaarling!" cooed Lupusregina as she pressed herself to Alfred's back, attempting to hug him as tightly as she could. "I've missed you!"

"I've missed you too, my beloved little wolf," Alfred replied as he swung around so that she was pressing herself into his chest instead as he gave her hair an affectionate stroke. "But please try to control yourself. We don't want to be overheard."

"I-I'm sorry, my darling Crown Prince, I promise to do better in the future!" She said with a near pout, even as she leaned forward and placed a searing kiss in the gap in his helm where his mouth was. "But even being apart from you the past two days has been sooo hard…I just couldn't resist jumping you and being in your arms once again!" Her sweet and sincere apology put paid to any further thoughts of telling her off, so he instead removed his helm and allowed himself to relax and enjoy the kiss, revelling in the taste of her lips. Having gotten so used to his taste before having to live without whilst on duty, it was taking all of Lupusregina's composure to not rip off their clothes and give into her lust.

"Control yourself Lupusregina!" Nabe hissed, even as she tried to hide her blush and the burning sensation in her loins that had arisen from seeing her beloved acting so caring and loving, with Eleanor beside her having a much harder time doing the same. "Our lord and Crown Prince are meant to be-OOF!" This time it was Nabe's words that were cut off as the enthusiastic werewolf leapt off of Alfred and quick as a flash wrapped both girls in spine-breaking hugs of their own.

"I've been soooooooooo bored without you Narberal, and you too Lady Albedo!" She crooned sweetly. "I'm so jealous you both got chosen to accompany our lord and our crown prince whilst I've been here watching those humans! You've got to tell me about what you've been up to!"

"Lupus…please…get…off…can't…breathe…" Eleanor found herself gasping.

"Crushing…me…please…stop…" Nabe barely choked out.

Both Momon and Alfred couldn't help but chuckle at their enthusiastic reunion and watched for a short while before deciding to show mercy on the two girls, even if they were at pains to break up such a sickeningly sweet sight. "That's enough, my darling little wolf…put your two harem sisters down before you break them in half." Alfred chided as he placed his helm back in place. The redhead pouted but did as her beloved ordered.

"You said you wanted to give your report in person, Lupusregina. Is there a particular reason why you called us out here apart from wanting to see us?" Momon asked.

"Yes, my lord," Lupusregina replied, once again all business as she fell to a knee before her master and father-in-law. "Aside from updating you on this village's progress, I also bring a message from Lord Demiurge. As you and our Crown Prince are surely aware, we are currently experiencing a shortage of metals and other minable materials. Between himself and Lady Aura, Lord Demiurge has discovered a way to not only solve that problem but also boost the fame of your adventurer personalities by a large amount at the same time."

"You have done well to bring this to our attention, Lupusregina," Momon praised her, since he, Henry and Fengxian had spent a considerable amount of time trying to find a fix to this problem without success. "What is the nature of that solution?"

Lupusregina shook her head even as a small blush formed on her skin upon hearing her lord's praise. "Forgive me, my lord and Crown Prince, but Lord Demiurge didn't wish for me to know the details. All he asked me to do was to pass on the message. I believe Lady Aura has taken up temporary residence in the nearby forest where she will inform you of the details personally."

"No forgiveness necessary, Lupusregina. You did as you were instructed, which is all we can ask for," Momon reassured her. "And don't worry about your report on the village. We plan to inspect it for ourselves. For now, you may return to your duties."

"Thank you, my lord. You are most gracious and kind," Lupusregina gushed as she proceeded to press her face to the ground. "Forgive my selfishness, my lord and Crown Prince, but this lowly servant has a humble request to make should you wish to hear it."

"We will hear you out, Lupusregina. Speak your wish," Alfred replied.

"Thank you, my beloved Crown Prince," Lupusregina replied, hesitating slightly before continuing. "If I may…if it's not too much ask since you are already here….once you have completed your duties here and before you leave...could I have a moment alone to catch up with my beloved?"

"LUPUSREGINA!" Both Eleanor and Nabe hissed with disbelief and barely-concealed jealousy. They'd been wanting something similar for the past day or so when they'd been out on the road but hadn't gotten the chance due to the company they'd been keeping, so for their harem sister to so brazenly ask for it like that...how dare she?! But before they could reprimand the impudent maid, Alfred held out a hand to stop their respective protests.

"Don't worry, I'll try and find some alone time with you both later when watching eyes aren't nearby…" he promised them softly, causing them to blush and moan quietly with desire even as his gaze went back to the slightly cowed maid. "As for you Lupusregina…I make no promises, but like with Eleanor and Nabe I'll do what I can."

Lupusregina lifted her head, her eyes and expression blazing with happiness. "Thank you, my darling Crown Prince! I am not worthy of your attentiveness and compassion!" She leapt to her feet and, with one last deep and respectful bow towards Momon and Alfred, ran off with a bounce in her step.

"You've got yourself a feisty one there, my friend," Momon commented.

"You have no idea, especially when she brings out the wolf side of her," Alfred said with a small shudder as he, Momon and the girls resumed travelling on the path which took them all the way around the village, and as they walked, they were able to get a good look at how the village had not only recovered from the attack but had also adapted to their new goblin residents, and what they saw pleasantly surprised them. From the looks of things, the goblins had not only assisted the villagers with the repairs to the damaged buildings and the construction of the wooden palisade but were also showing them how to defend themselves. They had seen a goblin archer showing a few people how to properly use and fire a bow and had even borne witness to one of the much larger and bulkier goblins happily showing several eager young children how to properly hold a sword.

(Goblins and humans living together and aiding one another…if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it) Alfred commented as they made their way back around towards where they'd left Lupusregina a while later. (Looks like your decision to leave those Horns with that girl Enri has paid off)

(I honestly wasn't expecting these sorts of results) Momon admitted as they stepped back up to the rise, which when you turned around afforded a somewhat good view of the rest of the village that wasn't hidden by the small bunch of trees nearby. (It takes somebody with a really strong will to not only use the Horn but use it in such a way to summon an elite defence force that has enough intelligence to speak, follow orders and willingly accede to living alongside humans. I'm telling you…Enri's no ordinary girl. I'll have to tell Lupusregina to quietly observe her if she isn't already)

Alfred nodded in agreement as his enhanced sense of smell picked up a familiar whiff heading towards them. (Heads up, Suzi. Nfirea's coming over).

(Probably to tell us he's ready to head into the Forest) Momon answered as the four of them turned to greet the approaching young man who was panting as though he'd run a marathon. "Nfirea…is everything alright?" He asked politely once he was in earshot.

"Y-y-yes, I'm fine. The new lady in the village…Miss Lupusregina I think her name was? She told me I could find you here." Nfirea said, breathing heavily. "I'm also ready to head into the forest to start foraging for ingredients, but there's something I wanted to ask you first."

"Since you came all the way out here, I'm guessing you don't want anybody else to hear us?" Alfred asked. Nfirea nodded quickly in response. "Then ask away, my friend."

Nfirea took a deep breath as he wrung his hands nervously before lifting his head to look at them determinedly through his messy fringe. "Mr Momon, Mr Alfred, please be honest with me," he spoke up nervously. "Are either one of your Sir Constantine?" Nabe's eyes widened and Eleanor leapt about a foot in the air as they both struggled to hide their shock. Just how had this human figured it out? Was he now a threat that needed to be disposed of?

Both Momon and Alfred couldn't help but smirk widely under their helmets as they gave each other a quick look. (Looks like that carefully orchestrated plan you pitched to me in E-Rantel is bearing fruit) Even via Message, it was hard to hide both the amusement and awe behind Alfred's words (Have I ever told you how much of a genius you are, Suzi?)

(Maybe once or twice, but I think this time I may have actually warranted it rather than you using those words to butter me up to the Guardians, Ise) Momon replied even as his insides did a happy jig. "I didn't actually think this plan would come together so well! How fortunate events played out the way they did! But I can't get ahead of myself…need to act surprised so as not to pique Nfirea's suspicions." "May I ask why you'd think that, Nfirea?" Momon asked carefully as Alfred, perhaps sensing Nabe and Eleanor's suddenly murderous thoughts, waved for them to stand down and move away to keep guard.

Nfirea took a deep breath before answering. "When I was catching up with Enri just now, she talked about the attack on the village and how she and Nemu were saved by a group of travellers led by a man named Ainz Ooal Gown," he explained. "She mentioned how this man Ainz and his companion, Sir Constantine, killed the men threatening them and that Sir Constantine had then given her a potion that healed her wounds. When I asked her about the potion, she mentioned it was a red potion she'd never seen before which reminded me of the potion Brita gave me back in E-Rantel. When I showed it to her, she told me that was the same potion Constantine had given her which made me start to suspect he and Sir Alfred, who was the one who gave the potion to Brita, might be the same person."

Nfirea paused for a moment to take a breath before continuing. "But what made me suspect even more was when I remember Miss Nabe blurting out Sir Constantine's name around the campfire last night as the man to whom her heart belonged, but even before that I'd caught both her and Miss Eleanor giving Sir Alfred looks that…seemed to be more than the usual looks of concern that would normally pass between comrades which made me think there was more than friendship between them. Enri also mentioned that these men, Ainz and Sir Constantine, were travelling with two other individuals: A massive warrior known only as Fen, and a woman named Albedo who seemed to be very affectionate with Sir Constantine from what she saw of them, which would mean that, if I'm correct in my assumption that Sir Alfred and this Sir Constantine are one and the same, then either Miss Nabe or Miss Eleanor must be this Albedo woman that Enri told me about."

It took all of Momon and Alfred's composure and force of will to not have their jaws on the floor as they listened to Nfirea's reasoning. It was now readily apparent that they had both underestimated just how clever and observant the young man really was. Given his arguments, there was only one way they could play it but they weren't going to make it easy for him. The truth was going to cost him. "I see you are a very bright young man, Nfirea Bareare," Alfred answered smoothly as he and Momon both unhooked their helms and deactivated their face-altering spells, allowing Nfirea his first glance at their actual faces. "Yes, I am Sir Constantine, and this is my superior Ainz Ooal Gown," he continued, indicating Momon/Ainz. "And as you guessed, it is Eleanor who is the Albedo your friend Enri mentioned. The reasons we have for disguising our identity in this way must remain private for now, but since you figured us out it is only right we clarify something about you for ourselves. You initially claimed that you hired us to find out about the true nature of the potion Brita gave you, but now that you know all of this…what are your intentions if we give you this knowledge?"

Nfirea was trying his best not to tremble in fear as he beheld their true faces, not to mention the sheer pressure they exerted merely by standing there! It was only due to Enri vouching for them and the knowledge that they'd willingly signed on to protect him on this mission that was stopping him from turning tail and fleeing. "Y-yes, as it's as you said…I initially wanted to acquire your services to gain more knowledge of the potion you gave to Brita," he replied, choosing his words carefully. "At first, the knowledge itself was tantalizing enough, but after seeing the strength you displayed fighting those goblins and ogres, and hearing from Enri how you effortlessly dispatched those men who attacked this village, it helped me realise something. The strength and power you all so effortlessly demonstrated…I know I could never dare to even come close to matching it, but to keep innocent people safe and healthy with my potions, and to protect those I care about such as my grandmother, Enri and Nemu…" Nfirea hastily threw himself forward into a small bow. "Mr Momon, Mr Al-no, I mean Lord Ainz and Lord Constantine, I know this may be selfish of me, but please, I beg of you…allow me to become your apprentice and learn from you so that I can protect the ones I love!"

If Momon's true face could have managed it, he would be grinning right now. As for Alfred, his mouth had cracked open into a pleased and caring smile. Even in their most optimistic of outcomes, they'd figured it would take a while to work on Nfirea in order to have him willingly work alongside them, but once again the young human was surprising them. It was clear he was devoted to those he cared about and would do anything to keep them safe, an attitude that reminded Alfred very much of himself and Touch Me.

Momon chose his words with care, not wanting to sound as enthusiastic as he felt. "Whilst Momon and Alfred aren't looking for an apprentice right now," he answered as they both replaced their helms and their disguises. "I believe Ainz Ooal Gown and Constantine could use the talents of a brilliant young man such as yourself as an assistant. In return for the knowledge you possess about potions, herbs and alchemy that we currently lack, we will help you uncover the secrets of this potion and many others, and in so doing expand your knowledge thus allowing you to protect the ones you love."

"R-Really?!" Nfirea exclaimed, not expecting such an offer.

"Of course, we could consider it a privilege and an honour to work alongside such a talented young man," Henry added. "When we have finished our business here and back in E-Rantel, we will make contact with you so that we can formally begin. Of course, it goes without saying that we must insist you keep the true knowledge of our identities a secret."

"O-of course, Sir Alfred. I promise you both won't regret it and I won't let you down!" The young man swore happily, shaking first Momon's and then Alfred's hands.

"If that is all, why don't you get your cart and the Swords of Darkness over here so we can start gathering the herbs you came here for?" Momon suggested. Nfirea nodded rapidly at this suggestion before running back towards the village with a spring in his step.

(That went better than I imagined…that young man is going to do great things, especially with our assistance) Momon reflected.

(Plus we get the benefit of his knowledge of this world's potions and herbs, so it's a win-win outcome) Henry added as Nabe and Eleanor rejoined them, their expressions slightly shocked at what they'd heard.

"Forgive me, my lords, but do you really think it's wise to have that human working so closely with us?" Eleanor asked.

"He is a very talented young man and his knowledge will be invaluable to both the safety and progression of Nazarick," Momon replied firmly. "I know neither of you are happy working alongside humans, but several of them have skills and knowledge that will be very useful to us, so I expect you to conduct yourselves accordingly around them."

"Of course, Lord Momon. Forgive your servant's curiosity," Eleanor replied contritely.

"The human discovered my lord and beloved's identities due to my carelessness. I shall atone for such transgressions with my life," Nabe said as she drew her sword, only for it to be knocked out of her hand by her beloved Crown Prince who immediately proceeded to wrap her in his embrace.

"I told you once before, Narberal Gamma, that I would not permit you to die so as long as I lived. You are mine, and I do not yet release you from our service," he whispered in her ear, causing her to moan in arousal. "Learn from this failure, so that you may serve us better in the future."

"O-of course, my beloved Crown Prince. This unworthy servant will do her best to live up to yours and our Lord's example," Nabe moaned piteously as she once again did her best to give in to the feelings of lust and desire welling up inside her from her beloved's touch.

(daniel: Well, this was awesome! Nfirea is honestly one of my favourite characters! Aside from being immensely talented and gifted, he's a genuinely good person that wants nothing more than to provide and protect those he treasures. He'll fit right in on the regime the Triumvirate will impose on the new world!)

Wow, that went on for much longer than expected, so much so that I'm having to cut it prematurely for the sake of the word count! If you're wondering where the encounter with Hamsuke is, that'll be the opening of the next chapter as we finish our stay in Carne Village and head back to E-Rantel where dark forces are lying in wait for our heroes. I'm looking forward to getting into that climactic battle and already have a few ideas as to how it and the preceding events will go.

As I always do, I must give credit where credit is due and acknowledge that many bits of this chapter were again heavily influenced by the following two Overlord fanfictions that I have referenced before: 'The Antichrist Cometh' by GoodguysRoverated and 'The Supreme Beings of Life and Death' by Ashkar. Please give those awesome stories plenty of love when you have the time!

I know I'm going to sound like a broken record at this point, but one more time you have my apologies for the lateness of this chapter. Once this is uploaded late Monday evening, I plan to have Tuesday and Wednesday off at least and then get to work on chapter 9 on Thursday. Fingers crossed, and baring any more bad days in terms of motivation for me, I'll have that done and up by the end of the month. Until then, on behalf of myself and my co-author daniel, thank you all again for reading and for all the love you've been showing this humble story of ours and getting to it to 100 follows and favourites, and we'll see you all again in the next chapter of the Nazarick Triumvirate!