Hello everyone, sorry for taking such a long time to update this work, but I've been quite busy with my original novel, which will come soon! More info on my Tumblr! Now, you can expect more chapters of this work soon! I am going to keep updating it from now on, I played Dragon Age: Veilguard and hated it, and I think everyone can make a better story with better characters. I have read Dragon Age fanctions with better dialogues than the ones in that awful game. So, in any case, I will see you in a few days.
The subsequent updates are as follows!
-Harry Potter x Overlord (1 One Shot!)
-The White Lion of the Red Keep (One Chapter)
-One Piece: A Demons's Treasure (One Chapter)
-The Overlord Geass (One Chapter)
-Boku No Overlord (One Chapter)
A lot of updates coming up!
So, that would be it!
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Chapter 5
Val Royeaux came to an abrupt stop as the gates welcomed in what seemed to be strange creatures from various parts of the world. The onlookers were puzzled by the sight of a carriage being pulled by unusual horses—skeletal in form but emitting a mysterious aura. These horses were adorned in golden plates, exuding a powerful and enchanted presence. Accompanying them was an envoy from an unfamiliar empire, adding to the intrigue. Despite the mystery surrounding this group, it did not diminish the significance of what they had brought to the city of Val Royeaux.
Empress Celene rushed to the throne room and saw that the entire palace was bustling to welcome the envoys of a mysterious nation that had suddenly emerged. Her heart was unusually difficult to pacify, as there was an unsettling aura surrounding the situation.
An envoy from an unknown empire, here of all places? Empress Celene thought in confusion as she walked towards the throne room. She began to look around, ensuring everything was up to the standards of what Orlais should be—pristine and wondrous.
"Where is Madame de Fer? I require her assistance in this matter," spoke Empress Celene. She noticed the First Enchanter of Montsimmard was already present, unsurprised since the moment she heard an envoy from an unfamiliar nation emerge from what seemed to be a portal at the city gates. She knew they were witnessing strange magic, and Madame de Fer considered strange magic to be dangerous.
"Your Majesty, I arrive as fast as I could," Vivienne said as Empress Celene sighed deeply.
"I appreciate this unprecedented moment, but I understand you realise how peculiar this all is," Empress Celene said, as Vivienne could only nod in response. Surprises were not something Vivienne appreciated. She believed that an unknown nation with a different view of magic could potentially bring problems to Thedas.
And Thedas already had enough problems as it is.
"It's only natural to feel concerned about this new nation. We are unsure of their origins and how they differ from us. Perhaps their perspective on magic varies greatly from ours. We need to be prepared, yet also strategic. We still need to uncover the true identity and capabilities of this new empire," Vivienne responded, and those words made Empress Celene relaxed a bit. It was true, they needed to be smart, perhaps this paranoia she was feeling was made up, all in her mind.
However, Empress Celene was quick to spot a group of Templars present, presumably to prevent the envoy from using any magic on them. She also observed nobles from various houses arriving at the palace, heralding the arrival of a new nation in Thedas with glee. This would sparked anticipation for many extravagant parties in the future. Consequently, the imperial court buzzed with attendees eager to meet the envoy and potentially leverage the situation to their advantage.
The Game never stops. Empress Celene thought, as she knew Briala was among the nobles, watching from the shadows.
"Your majesty, the envoy has arrived," a masked man spoke, as Empress Celene sat on her throne, taking a deep breath and calming her nerves.
"Let them in," she ordered, and soon the throne room grew quiet.
The large and ludicrous door of the palace opened, and everyone waited eagerly to catch a glimpse of the envoy. "I present Lady Albedo, envoy of the Empire of Nazarick!" the announcer exclaimed as all eyes turned to the woman, walking with grace and elegance. Albedo's beauty was truly mesmerising, leaving the onlookers in awe. It was evident to Albedo that these humans were not accustomed to seeing a succubus at all, which would make things easier.
However, Albedo was aware that her horns and wings were the main reason for the attention she was receiving, as people seemed to be trying to figure out what sort of race she was. While the nobles were familiar with horns, as the Qunari had them, the black wings were a new and unusual sight for them. And if from what their information said about Thedas, demons and all of those things weren't keen to be welcomed.
I suppose it will be a matter of time, really. Albedo thought as she gave a small bow to the empress, who sat on the throne.
"I bid you welcome to Val Royeaux, Lady Albedo," Empress Celene greeted with her regal and calm voice, ensuring her true feelings and intentions remained concealed. The Game was prevalent not just in Orlais but beyond, but Albedo was indifferent to the human intrigues. "I do hope that the grandeur of the city, inspire your visit."
Albedo would roll her eyes at the presumptuous statement, finding amusement in the arrogance of the Orlesians her lady had told her about. However, she was not one to be outdone and could play the same game. It was all fun and games until they discovered her true race.
"The city is truly marvellous, Empress Celene," Albedo replied in a succulent voice. "It's evident that we made the right decision to come here, among all the other nations. However, I would like to apologise for our sudden and unannounced arrival. It was unbecoming of us."
Albedo's words echoed in the throne room. Many nobles were trying to take a peek into Albedo's character. Yet, the perfect and cool demeanour of the succubus was hard to figure out.
"Worry not, Lady Albedo," Empress Celene reassured, her voice resonating in the hall. "We are thrilled to have you here with us at this moment, which will undoubtedly mark a new chapter in our history." Albedo couldn't help but ponder the truth in those words, realising that it would indeed be a significant moment in the histories of not just Orlais, but all of Thedas.
"Indeed, that's our hope. It's one of the reasons why my empress wishes to establish diplomatic relationships with the rest of Thedas. We are, after all, new to this continent," Albedo declared, causing whispers around the great hall.
Empress Celene, upon hearing those words, sensed an opportunity to inquire further and gather more details from the envoy. She was curious about the location of the Empire of Nazarick, the nature of its inhabitants, their attitudes towards magic, and most importantly, whether they were human, judging by the envoy's appearance.
"And we are thankful for that. But if I may ask, what kind of magic did you used to arrive here on such short notice?" inquired Empress Celene, adopting a gentle tone that appeared more curious than probing. Despite her attempt to conceal it, she recognised it as a clear effort to prompt her to reveal more about their capabilities, and it was the perfect time to not say, but to let them know, that for them, magic was different.
"Our magic is vastly different from you," Albedo said, knowing all the people were hearing with keen ears.
"How different?" Empress Celene asked.
"You use the Fade to draw magic—we don't," Albedo claimed, causing now everyone to gasp at such claim.
"Impossible!" Vivienne hissed, stunned, refusing to believe such a claim. "Without the Fade, you can use magic!"
"For you humans, perhaps that's true, but for us, that's not an issue," Albedo declared with a smile, as whispers grew only more.
"What are you, then, my lady, if I can be so bold to ask?" Empress Celene inquired. Albedo had been waiting for this moment, aware that their response could influence the future of Thedas.
"A demon, of course!" Albedo exclaimed excitedly. The moment those words left her lips, it was like a switch had been flipped. Everyone started to exclaim in shock at Albedo's statement. The expressions of pure horror were both amusing and entertaining.
"Demon!" Vivienne had her staff in hand as quickly as those words came out, and the Templars quickly surrounded Albedo, who looked at the humans with a bit of an amuse look on her face.
"Who are you possessing, you filth!" Vivienne demanded as she stood before the queen. Some of the Orlesian guards were protecting the empress, who had a shocked look on her face.
"Possessing? No, I do not possessing anyone or anything. This is who I am, what I was created to be. Perfect. Powerful," replied Albedo with a cold tone. Looking around the throne room, she decided to clarify her presence there.
"As the envoy of the Empire of Nazarick and the voice of Empress Galadriel, the Demon Empress, I have come here to establish relationships with the Empire of Orlais. I also want to inform all the nations of Thedas that my lady's empire spans across continents, from Voshai to Amaranth, yet remains undiscovered to all of you," Albedo addressed the gathered nobles.
"We lay claim to what lies beyond—the place you called the Tirashan, the Sea of Ash, the Gamordan Peaks, the Tirashan, Western Approach, and the Arbour Wilds," Albedo announced. His words were met with loud shouting, especially considering that the Western Approach was once part of the Empire of Orlais.
"Prepostereous!"
"They lay claim?! How could they lay claim to what is ours by right?!"
"This is nonsense! The gall of this—demons!"
Albedo heard the voices shouting at her. It was the reaction they expected. After all, Albedo and her lady already knew that Thedas would never be open to having a diplomatic relationship with a nation of demons. It was impossible. But still, if there was something they had learned in the few years of conquering other nations across the world, it was to position themselves as the ones acting in good faith. The ones who never attacked and were trying to establish good and friendly relationships with other nations.
Besides, Thedas was plagued with numerous issues. Mages were oppressed, confined to prisons known as Circles, and deprived of the freedom to live their lives. The Dalish were constantly fleeing, leading a nomadic existence without any sense of unity among their people, while the elves residing among humans endured a life akin to impoverished peasants, often treated as insignificant pests or slaves. The status quo of Thedas would forever change with the arrival of a new nation. This nation, brimming with magic and encompassing a diverse array of races, had united under a single banner and had now reached the shores of Thedas.
And the only thing they need was for the humans to be, well, humans.
"The Empire of Nazarick sees no difference in its people. No matter their race, religious affiliation, or whether they are mages or not, everyone is welcome to be a proud citizen there," Albedo exclaimed loudly, aware that many spies were already listening to the conversation between her and the Empress of Orlais.
"So welcoming for a demon," Vivienne hissed as she walked down, her staff in hand. "Your words sound like honey to fools. Your body certainly ensures that you attract attention from those who only seek to indulge in the flesh of an ordinary woman of the streets. It appears your creator had a fetish. But it is of no consequence. A demon will always be a demon. They are not to be trusted."
Albedo's eyebrows twitched as the human not only had the audacity to call her a whore, but also insult her creator. Despite the anger consuming her, she clenched her teeth and maintained a smile on her face. She was determined not to give this insignificant human the satisfaction of a reaction. Albedo was resolute in not showing any weakness to anyone present. Besides, Albedo knew this human wanted her to snap.
Albedo was smarter than to give this human the reason to distrust them. But she would have her revenge in the future.
"Oh? No reaction?" Vivienne asked with a smirk on her face.
"React to what, my lady? Your pose no more threat to me than an ant to an elephant. Besides, it's unbecoming for a lady to call another such thing. I am still an envoy in a nation. Is this how Orlais behaves? Like a bunch of savage baboons? If that's the case, how disappointing. Perhaps Ferelden would behave more eloquently and dignified," Albedo said with a very loud sigh in her voice. Almost dramatic.
The entire hall erupted with loud exclamations, ranging from insults to offensive remarks. It was clear that Albedo's statement had struck a nerve. It was a bit amusing how insulted Orlesians felt by being compared to Ferelden.
"You—" Vivienne hissed.
"Enough!" Empress Celene exclaimed loudly. And soon all the halls grew quiet. "Demon or not. Lady Albedo is an envoy for a nation. And should be treated as such!"
"Your Majesty, she—this thing is a demon!" Vivienne hissed again.
"I understand, Madame de Fer. However, she is part of a diplomatic party and will be accorded the appropriate treatment," Empress Celene asserted, casting a brief glance at Albedo. "Nevertheless, what you're suggesting is not feasible. Certain territories are under the jurisdiction of the Empire of Orlais. We do not engage in negotiations with demons, Lady Albedo."
Albedo hummed deeply. "It's that so. I suppose there's only one way left then."
"It appears so," Empress Celene replied, and the entire throne room realised what that was supposed to mean. War.
"This is the will of Orlais, and your majesty?" Albedo asked one more time, just to make it clear.
"Yes. We shall not allow a demonic nation near our borders, my lady. I do hope you understand it," Empress Celene said.
"Understood, your majesty. I shall take these words to my empress," Albedo said before bowing to Empress Celene.
Empress Celene watched as Albedo left the throne hall, only able to breathe a deep sigh once the demon was gone. However, her relief was short-lived.
"Summon the war council. Bring my cousin, Grand Duke Gaspard de Chalons. It is crucial that we stand together at this moment. Also, please arrange for me to speak with Divine Justinia right away," commanded Empress Celene, unaware of the magnitude of destruction the upcoming war might bring.
Antiva City was a stunning sight—robust yet beautiful, populated by denizens who charmingly flaunted their wealth and famous silver tongues. Galadriel couldn't help but acknowledge that the city was teeming with so many "side-quests" that made her feel truly alive. The extensive exploration she had undertaken in recent years had brought her a sense of closeness to home. It was akin to Yggdrasil's expansion, where engaging in many side activities filled with NPCs, each with their own storyline, was truly remarkable for her.
Ah, there's nothing better after a long day of work than simply hitting the road to explore a bit, maybe even tackle a few side quests. With a smile, Galadriel thought as she and Narberal approached a tavern where they were meeting their contact. As they stepped inside, the chatter of the tavern fell silent as all eyes turned to the famous Dark Knight of Thedas, the Dark Hero, the Blade of Silent Plains, the Ghost of Nevarra, and Galadriel's personal favourite, the Outlander. These were titles she had earned over the years, from her unwavering dedication to her work, always completing her tasks no matter how challenging or impossible they seemed.
Besides, Narberal had her own nicknames too, although they always seemed to be more focus on her beauty rather her power.
"So, there she is," a hooded man whispered as he sat at the end table of the tavern. "As fast as she is known to be."
Galadriel approached him with a crate in her hands. Unconcerned by the numerous shadows nearby, she confidently remarked, "Here, as promised," before setting the crate down in front of the man, who chuckled heartily.
The hooded man tilted his head at one of the masked assassins, who took the crate and left the room quickly. Galadriel knew that the Antivan Crows were the best and the most elite thieves, spies and assassins throughout Thedas. So learning more about them was always a good thing for Galadriel.
"The package appears to be in perfect conditions. Quite the job, truly. Not even our best agents could've achieved this," the hooded man said, and Galadriel only hummed back.
"No reactions, eh? Nothing. I do wonder how your faces look behind that helmet of yours," the hooded man whispered, perhaps trying to intimidate Galadriel. But of course, it wasn't working at all.
"Keep wondering," Galadriel replied with a monotone voice, almost dismissively.
"I do wonder what sort of secrets you had," the hooded man replied. One of the Crows quickly began to whisper into his ear. Galadriel already knew the kind of words this person was about to say. His gasp indicated he was taken by surprise. However, he quickly composed himself and handed over a large bag of coins.
"Here, as promised, the Antiva Crows always honoured their contract," he said with a bow. "Now, if you excuse us, we are currently having quite of an emergency meeting. Please, enjoy your stay in our city."
Galadriel simply nodded, accepting the bag of coins before exiting the tavern. Once they ensured no one was tailing them, Narberal quickly caught up to her lady, walking briskly by her side.
"My lady, do you think, they'll try to do something?" Narberal whispered, as Galadriel hummed deeply.
"Hard to say. The news of the Empire of Nazarick will spread fastly across Thedas. It will be good to see how each nation reacts. But time is on our side," Galadriel replied with a smile. "We only need to act first."
"What do you mean, my lady?" Narberal asked.
"They harbour a strong dislike for demons and fear magic. If we factor in our empire, they will probably shift the blame onto us and portray us as the villains. Orlais will respond in its typical fashion, declaring war against us. There's even a possibility of facing an exalted march. Our possession of unknown magic and demonic nature make us the ideal target in this situation."
Galadriel couldn't help but smile at the perfect opportunity to sow chaos in Thedas. She found it sad and disheartening that humans were so consumed by fear and hate that they would choose war over peace. Galadriel was sincere in her desire to engage in trade with Thedas and its nations. She sought to pursue a different approach, rather than resorting to conquest. While she had used conquest in dealings with other nations, she was now eager to explore new avenues. This was the sole reason she refrained from opting for complete genocide.
"But well, a bit show of force would put them down," Galadriel hummed to herself. "Besides, this is also the perfect moment to make my character, the Outlander, a legend. A new hero, and stuff."
Galadriel smiled to herself, already thinking on how to act with the upcoming war and all of that. "Let's go, Narberal. Let's head back to Nazarick. There's a lot to plan ahead."
Divine Justinia sat surrounded by the grand clerics of the Chantry, studying the map in front of her. The eerie sensation she felt was unsettling, especially upon hearing the news of the events at the palace. She knew she had to figure out a way to navigate through this challenging situation, particularly when faced with an empire allegedly under the control of demons.
The room was filled with whispers of an Exalted March. Many clerics were discussing it as if it was not a delicate matter, but rather something insignificant. Justina was greatly concerned by this, especially considering they had no knowledge of the foreign nation involved.
"Most Holy, if this empire is indeed under the rule of a self-proclaimed Demon Empress, we cannot let the Chantry stand idly by! Demons are the Maker's enemy, as well as ours! Furthermore, this empire possesses magic that is unfamiliar to us! We cannot predict the kind of terrors they might unleash! It could be even more dreadful than the ancient Tevinter Imperium!" One of the Grand Clerics exclaimed, with many others echoing his concern.
"The destruction of Mont-de-Glace may be their doing!" Another one said.
"They say their one of their city is in the Sea of Ash! That place is inhabitable. Only monsters and demons could live in such a place!"
Divine Justinia sighed as she gazed at Cassandra Pentaghast, the Right Hand of the Divine. She could sense a feeling of distrust and concern on her face. The tension in the air was palpable due to the unsettling news. The looming threat of war felt increasingly real, particularly because Orlais seemed determined to go to battle, regardless of Divine Justinia's stance. The honour of Orlais was in question, with a rival nation attempting to claim territory that rightfully belonged to them.
It was at this moment that Justinia felt quite tired and exhausted.
"It's there any option left besides the call for an Exalted March?" Divine Justinia asked as they looked at her, stunned.
"Your Eminence, surely you are not trying to make peace with demons!" A cleric exclaimed.
"No, that's not what I said. We are discussing demons that are present here without possessing someone. It's been claimed that their magic differs from what we know. Their magic isn't from the Fade. We are unaware of this threat and advancing towards war may not be the wisest choice," Divine Justinia explained. Some could discern the logic in her voice, but it didn't alter the reality that demons were nearby.
"True, but they are already moving towards war, Most Holy! Reports from the Western Approach came in a few hours ago. There are reports of strange things, creatures gathering, which have caused a panic in Orlais. Empress Celene has requested assistance from Nevarra and the Free Marches. We must also take action! This could be a threat on the level of a Blight!"
Divine Justinia doubted those claims, if she was honest. "Cassandra?" She asked.
"It is true, but they also say that those creatures are armoured undead, and more. We don't know exactly," Cassandra replied.
Divine Justinia lets out a sigh. First, there was the ongoing tension between the Circles of Magi and the Templars, followed by Kirkwall's escalating issues with the Qunari, and the city becoming a major powder keg. And now, a foreign empire, governed by demons, was looming on their doorstep. She found herself turning to the Maker in prayer, hoping for guidance.
But it appeared that the only guidance she had right now were the loud voices that called for an Exalted March.
"Most Holy, we must call for an Exalted March!"
Divine Justinia gazed at Cassandra, who appeared troubled and distrustful of the clerics but acknowledged that they were correct, especially in dealing with demons. However, even the Seeker was uncertain. It was all in Divine Justinia's hand, and with a heavy sigh, she looked at the grand clerics.
"Send out the letters."
Divine Justinia hoped that the Maker was on their side. She would pray that night, but no one would anwser.
Author's note!
Next it's a one shot, from my What if series of Harry Potter x Overlord!
Also, as many of you know, I am going to finish a set of fanfictions that will allow me to focus not only in a new work, but also, in fanfictions such as this! So you can expect more chapters of my works that were left to dust from now on!
Also, if you wish to support me, please go to my Tumblr, where you can do it! I don't use P treon, or anything like that. I don't put a paywall on my works. Thank you!
See you all later!