Chapter 148 - Chapter 7: Fifty shades of the Princess face

Later in the night.

A group of riders raced down the road to the west, heading for Italica.

Above them flew flags emblazoned with red, white and yellow roses. The sound of many galloping hooves thundered beneath them.

Their polished breastplates and helmets reflected gold and silver light, and the waving flags and upraised lances surged forward at great speeds.

The knight at their lead is especially noteworthy.

She was a spectacularly dressed female knight whose golden hair swayed in the wind. She lashed her horse repeatedly. Her mount mutely bore the pain and threw itself forward in response.

The countryside flew past the lady knight's eyes, but it was too slow, far too slow. She gripped the reins tighter and lashed the horse harder.

"Bozes! You're going too fast!"

The woman whose voice was filled with even calmness caught up to the foremost rider.

She was a female knight with chestnut-brown hair. Behind her was a group of mounted warriors, whom she had left behind in her haste to catch up with Bozes.

The lady knight called Bozes replied in a voice like the tinkling of silver bells.

"We're still too slow, Panache!"

"Your horse won't be able to take it, and people in the rear can't keep up with you. If this goes on, we won't be able to fight even if we make it there on time."

"It doesn't matter, our objective is Italica, and the stragglers can catch up later. Time is of the essence now!"

"But—"

"Even if only a few people arrive in the end, there are ways to fight with small groups. The most important thing is to get there is soon as possible, even if it's by just a little."

Bozes had said this much, and Panache could not convince her otherwise. All she could do was follow behind Bozes and convince her to slow down as much as possible.

After Bozes forced herself to loosen the reins and lower her speed, the unit behind her finally managed to catch up a little.

"Panache, will we make it in time?"

"It'll be fine. If it's the Princess, she'll think of a way."

"But—"

It was all Bozes could do to suppress the uneasiness in her heart. Her energies were focused on the road which kept unfolding before her and the tiny point of Italica on the horizon.

Therefore, the first one to notice it was Panache.

"Hm?"

Something was approaching from in front of them.

Although this was supposed to be a major road of the Empire, that meant it had been built long ago and exposed to the elements in the wilderness, and in places, it would become very narrow, certainly not big enough for two wagons to fit side by side. If the riders continued like this, they would collide with the people in front of them.

Speaking of which, the entity approaching from in front of them was drawing near with a speed that surpassed their expectations. It looked like a box, and from a distance, they could not tell exactly what it was, but it seemed to be a wagon of some sort.

"Bozes!"

"I know."

"The hell you know! Look ahead!"

As Panache's scolding brought her around, Bozes straightened up, clicked her tongue and pulled back hard on the reins.

Panache raised her left hand to signal a halt to the rest of the unit behind her, and she pulled on her reins to stop her horse.

The people behind them were slightly relieved because they had a chance to give their exhausted mounts an opportunity to rest. Both man and beast panted heavily, sweating rivers.

"Ahhh, what a pain! Have them make way!"

Just as the knights behind them were about to advance to remove the obstruction, they saw Panache's signal to wait and stayed where they were.

"They came from Italica. I'll check them out and see if they have any useful information."

With that, Bozes slowly urged her horse forward.

Scene Change: Italica:

Piña Co Lada. 19 years old female. The fifth child of Emperor Molt, the ruler of the Saderan Empire. She was in a really distressed situation. She not only lost the city of Italica. But now she sat before the enemy Crown Prince. Not because she wants. But because she has to. After all, after the negotiations, she offered him, Momon and Creon. Beelzebub captain to dine together.

She must admit. The crown prince of the enemy kingdom who invaded Italica looked handsome despite his horns what curled out from the two sides of his head and she found somewhat appealing his two demonic, yet beautifully shining yellow irises. What strangely has vertically slit pupils instead of normal ones.

Beside the heir of Ainz. Sat his bodyguard who sent by his father. The dark hero. Momon. However, referring religious reasons, he did not remove either his close faced black helmet or consumed anything. This is what Beelzebub did not understand either. He knew there was a religious freedom in the Sorcerer Kingdom. But he never heard such religion what needed to keep these dogmas. But he is in the Princess presence. He will later ask about it, Momon.

Piña thought about why should anyone chose an elf to become the captain his honor guard after Beelzebub introduced her Creon Karailis, his captain in the honor guard. But after seen the variously raced soldiers in Beelzebub honor guard and those horrible abominations. She was not surprised at all. However, Piña became strangely curious what kind of kingdom offer complete equality to all races no matter their nature and use those strange creatures in the brunt of their forces.

But Creon Karailis. Beelzebub captain was not at the scene due he helped coordinate the forces in the city.

Such the Princess and Myui accepted this and let it go.

"Their technological and magical knowledge would be way above ours. I had to be cautious. One misstep and this 'Prince' may give the order to the annihilation of Italica. Or maybe…" she gulped nervously.

"Maybe the whole Empire…"

Beside her sat Myui Formal. The countess of the town of Italica. She was only 11 years old. But because of her father. The former head of Clan Formal, Colt, died participating in the Empire's expedition force to the otherworld. As her two older sisters were already married into other families, she became the head of Clan Formal. Her two older sisters are battling over who gets guardianship. Clan Formal withdrew its soldiers, having no spare capacity. As a result, crime increased, and public safety worsened.

Around them, the maids went and came. Bringing the newer and newer meals to the table. Count Myui picked her most prestigious guards to oversee the dinner. Beelzebub did the same and brought the best from his honor guards to oversee the dinner. But he did not pick any from the summoned units not to terrify even more the Princess and those who was present in the room from the side of the empire.

He saw how terrified they were already. And it would be indecent for bringing creatures in the room what could cause nightmares for the children and most of the adults from a mere glance. So he decided to bring a few from his best honor guard simply to oversee the event and to avoid further accidents.

Amongst them, there was massive Beastman with massive bulky armor. A Lizardman. But mostly humanoid raced people. A few humans, elf and a few more golden armored honor guard from various races.

Beelzebub inspected the princess with a look of curiously while hid his mouth behind his folded hands. For one moment the burgundy haired princess glanced deep into Beelzebub yellow eyes. Yellow meet burgundy and Piña suddenly turned her head away from the judging stare of her fellow royalty and blushed deeply.

When she looked into his eyes, she felt unburdened power without restraint, confidence, awareness, authority, and in the same time. Calmness, kindness, and nobility.

She did not know what to do with the man before her. The four of them sat in the dining hall of the Count Formal estate ceremonial dining room, and none of them said even a word. The air around them started to become heavier and heavier for the Princess of the Saderan Empire and the young Myui.

Those yellow eyes with vertically slit pupils were like as he tried to stare into directly into her soul.

Piña gathered her courage and her thoughts and slowly opened her mouth. "H-How is the food?"

The sweat started to drip in Piña's forehead and back in streams. "Why did I say such thing!? I wanted to say something else entirely! But when it comes to the time an entirely another thing came into my mind."

Beelzebub tilted his head and looked a little bit strangely at her. Then started to smile. His smile was like his mother's. Calming, reassuring. But the two horns what sprouted under his hair gave his face such shade it made his smile a little bit sinister looking.

He closed his eyes and bowed his head. "It is very delicious. Thank you." He answered.

Piña sighed inwardly in a relieved tone. "Princess may I ask a question?" asked Beelzebub.

Piña nodded nervously. "O-Of course."

Beelzebub sighed deeply. The tension just grows and grow in the room. Piña started to sweat again. "Your empire often attacks other nations without any declaration of war or scouting?"

Piña gulped nervously and mobilized all of her brain computing capacity to give the first heir of Ainz an adequate answer. "N-No! Of course, not! My father just thought with the appearance of the new gate. We may get the opportunity to expand our influence and gain new resources!" She retorted hastily.

"Please believe it! Please believe it! Please believe it!" She prayed deep inside her soul.

Beelzebub nodded. "I see…" he answered with a calm manner.

Piña sighed in a relieved tone.

"Still, it is strange you sent such great amount of force through the gate. You might think if you find an unknown structure in the middle of nowhere you send a few scouts forward to scout the other side. Before you send a whole legion. Funny. Don't you think." Explained Beelzebub with a deadly calm tone as he glanced lazily into Piña's eyes.

Momon glanced at his son from the corner of his helmet eye holes. "Careful Beelzebub. You are walking on thin ice." He thought.

Piña gulped deeply and clenched her fists in her nervousness. "He saw through it…What now?" she thought.

Beelzebub was silent for a moment. Then sighed deeply. "But that is the past. We need to concentrate on the future. And as my father always said. Even the most vicious enemy can be turned into a friend."

A relieved expression moved on Piña's face. "I am glad you say this." She said. "I would like to apologize in the name of the Empire about our intrusion. I hope our nations can negotiate the peace as soon as possible and can form a close relationship. I think it would benefit for both sides. "She said.

Beelzebub nodded. "I agree. But unfortunately, it is not up to me. It is up to my father. If he wants to spread his influence through the gate he will do that. Otherwise, after the empire paid compensation. Our forces retreat through the structure. At least. This is what I would do."

"Can I ask you which path he is most likely take?" inquired the princess with a curious yet frightened tone.

Beelzebub sighed and shook his head. "Unfortunately even I. His own son could not perceive his plans. I only assume if his claims will be satisfied he will retreat our forces and offer a trade agreement between our nations. If not… Well…" Beelzebub left a little pause between his sentences and glanced sideways.

Piña waited patiently for a moment then her curiosity overcame her. "I-if not… What then?"

Beelzebub smile turned sinister. He did not want to look that way. But his race demonic nature and the face structure what he inherited from his mother made him look that way. "Then we may force to vassalage your empire with force if it's necessary. As my father did it countless times back in our home world. According to my best knowledge, our envoy already gave my king claims to your father."

"C-Countless times?! What do you mean he give my father his claims?" asked the princess in a terrified tone. Count Myui's eyes widened.

"It means our envoy already relayed our claims. But unfortunately, your father did not welcome him as well as we hoped. According to my information."

Momonga sighed inside and shook his head. "I thought it is not a good idea to send Zero to give my claims. His relationship anyone besides of our influence is really severe. True. He is a genius when it comes to information gathering, assassination, and cooking. But when it comes to social skills... Well... Let's just say. Esdeath could write in his program a few social skills."

"W-What happened?" asked Piña in a panicked tone.

"According to him. After he appeared in the throne hall. Your father ordered his men to kill him." Explained Beelzebub.

"This is bad! This is very, very bad…" Piña gulped. Her heart can't take too much.

"But this is maybe his fault. You know. He is the leader of our assassination units and information gathering network. He likes to appear in the middle of the meetings without invitation and because he doesn't really like humans. He often leaves bodies behind as a warning."

"So that's happened when I got the order from father to investigate the two gates…" she thought. "This is getting worse and worse! If my father goes in this direction, he may get kill himself!"

"I-Is that so… Please forgive my father. He is a proud man." The burgundy haired princess tried to save the situation as she took out her best smile.

Beelzebub nodded and smiled with a friendly face. "Don't worry. I think he takes no offense. But, you know Princess Piña…" he looked to the sideline.

"J-Just call me Piña. Please." She took out her best friendly smile. Meanwhile inside she shook like jelly.

"Then in return please call me Beelzebub. I am also not a fan of those court pleasantries myself." Replied Beelzebub and chuckled.

"I need to gather more information from his nation. Every little bit counts. However, I don't want to hear any more. I need more information."

"Can you tell me about your country? About your father conquests? Can you tell me about them?" inquired the burgundy haired princess.

Beelzebub leaned forward. "Clever. Do you want more information about my home? Kukuku… "He chuckled inside. "Two can play the game. I assume I can give her a few hints…" he rolled his eyes.

"Very well. I will tell you a few things."

The burgundy haired princess nodded and opened her ears as much as she can. Not to overlook any details what may come handy in the future.

"According to our history. My father and aunt arrived two hundred years ago from an unknown place. Together with their first vassals."

Piña nodded in understanding. Beelzebub continued. "In that time the Kingdom were not yet founded. My father territory was nothing more than a little. Barely a half square mile area near the forest of Tob. Of course, this was before my father started his crusade against the corrupt governments of the New World as he and aunt often called our world in those times."

"How did he manage to grow out a whole Kingdom from that small territory?" asked Piña curiously.

"It is all in our history book. Only in more detail. So, I think it is not a problem if I tell her. If she or any other people go into a bookstore. Anyone easily buys a history book for a few coppers or simply go into a free library." Thought the heir of Ainz.

"Through political schemes and of course using his and his vassal's strengths. He is not accidentally called Sorcerer King or Overlord of Death, Shinigami-sama, Wisest Being, the leader of the Supreme Beings and many other titles what he did not say it in loud. But hate them. You know?"

Piña nodded nervously.

"He once conquered a whole empire just by showing his strength. Completely annihilating the attacking army with a single act."

"Why the history books always overcomplicate things? We just wanted to go adventuring. It is that hard to believe? Seriously. Demiurge and the others were bad enough when they started to find out such things. But you too Beelzebub? Despite I am an undead. Now, I am depressed." Momonga screamed inside hearing what his son told the Princess.

Piña started to sweat. "A-A Whole Empire!? No! That can't be right! Even the apostles are incapable of doing that!" she screamed inwardly.

"My father and aunt managed to conquer our whole continent less than three years. And it took so long because they played with the politicians most of the time and went around personally explore the nearby countries. Because they were bored. As the two of them said. 'It would be pretty boring if we did not do that and just simply used force to conquer the lands.'" Beelzebub showed quotation marks with his fingers playfully.

"Prince Beelzebub! Please don't play with me. This is not funny!" Retorted Piña with an angry expression.

"Do I look like who joking with such things? No." he shook his head. "I just say the hard truth. You can ask anyone who lived in that time how things really happened. Long-lived races. Elves or demons for example. And they will say the same thing. What is written in the history book. Nothing else. Lying to the people is pointless. They will find out the truth sooner or later. Most of them not stupid despite what the nobles think about them. You know that?"

Piña looked to Momon waiting for confirmation what Beelzebub said.

"Now, that's true. Ordinary people sometimes more clever than you first think." Momon nodded to himself.

Piña gulped nervously as she saw Momon is confirming with a nod what the heir of Ainz said. "C-Can I ask you how big is your kingdom?"

Beelzebub smiled. "My father domain spread across three continents, and we are close to the complete victory in the fourth. The last unconquered piece of land in our world will be in our complete control. Your nation intrusion may buy them a week delay. Nothing more. So we could say. My father is the sole monarch of our whole world." Said Beelzebub with a satisfied yet sad expression.

Piña's eyes widened. "N-No. That can't be! Even our Empire was unable to conquer fully of our continent and upkeep its rule! What we have brought to ourselves?" she almost fainted in the midst of her panic.

"Can I ask you one more thing?" asked Piña nervously.

"Ask away…" said Beelzebub as he looked his wine with a bored face.

"W-What were those soldiers out there. In black armors and with those dreadful skulls faced masks?"

Beelzebub ate one bite elegantly from the meat before him, he chewed it and swallowed it. "They are Death Knights and Nephalem Guards. My father and aunt summons."

"Summons?" asked Piña.

Beelzebub nodded. "Summons…"

"So they are not human or any other raced creatures. Then… Can you explain to me what are these summons?" Inquired the princess.

Beelzebub nodded. After all, everyone knows this information about his father and aunt summons in the kingdom. There is a high possibility for them to know already. And even if they don't know. What do they will do them if he tells her they are created by his father and aunt.

He rolled his eye. "Well… The death knights. Those soldiers whose you thought only wore skeletal masks. Created by personally my father. They are undead beings. The black armored soldiers with energy weapons are Nephalem Guards. They are the creations of my aunt. I don't really know what her creations race is because she simply avoids the theme whenever I ask. So please forgive me. But I can't tell you."

Piña and Myui gasped. "U-Undead? T-They can create life? Impossible!" Piña stood up suddenly.

"Well… In our lands. My father is revered as the god of unlife, death, knowledge and many other things. And my aunt as the goddess of the war, destruction, creation, balance and many other things. However, she and my father hate these titles."

"G-Gods?" Myui and Piña said in unison in a flabbergasted tone then looked at each other with a terrified look. The soldiers of the Saderan Empire in the room already shook like jelly just by listening to this conversation.

Beelzebub nodded. "Yes, in our culture my father and aunt revered as gods. However, whenever someone refers my aunt as a god and start to pray towards her in her presence. She made the person stood up and start to explain to the person why such thing as god can't exist in the most difficult ways." The young heir shook his head disapprovingly.

Momonga face palmed inside. "Please Beelzebub. I beg you… Don't start it. We said them numerous times. We are not some freaking gods! At least Esdeath says this since today. I gave up after a few try and just nod to those who want my blessing and trying to suppress their annoying religious prattle in my head. Still, it is freaking annoying!" To assure what he thought he nodded to himself.

Piña trembled even more then started to feel the nausea play with her stomach as she saw the silent black-clad warrior reassuring nod. Despite the fact that Momon did not nod to confirm what Beelzebub said. Just to confirm his own thoughts.

"Even listening to her complicated scientific explanation made my head hurt and she wonder why more and more people start to pray towards her when she and father made miracles day by day and walk amongst people like it was a natural thing to gods walks amongst people."

"Y-Your father is a god!?" asked Piña in a trembling tone while a puzzled expression settled on her face.

Beelzebub nodded confirming the worst what she feared. "You could say that. However, my mother and other god-like entities call him and aunt Supreme Beings. According to them. The forty-one stand above gods and killed many gods and demons in the past."

"T-That's impossible!" said Piña with an angered tone. "Gods cannot be killed!" she stood up suddenly.

Beelzebub sighed. "Well… As my aunt always say. Who knows as the god of destruction and balance according to the religion of the forty –one. Everything has a beginning that has an end. If you walloped something enough. If you move it away from its own piece of reality. That sooner or later will die."

Piña looked Beelzebub with the face of an unbeliever.

"You are joking, right? And why should they kill gods?" she asked suspiciously.

"Hey! Don't believe me. It's your call, But when I asked aunt about why they slew gods, she answered with the next sentence." Said Beelzebub lazily while sipped one sip of wine from his golden goblet.

The tension grew and grew between the two sides.

Beelzebub finished with his drink. "According to her. They killed them for items, crafting ingredients, experience and for fun," he answered lazily.

Momonga nodded inwardly. "Yeah, those were good times. Just us and our thirty-nine friends killing those raid bosses, collecting resources and crafting. Ah. Good times. Even thinking about it trigger my emotion suppression. Damn…" A bright green aura surrounded Momonga what was only be seen by himself as his emotion suppression kicked in.

Piña gasped and just don't know what to say anymore. She remained silent and started to stare her food with a bland, emotionless face. She could not process what she heard. And she either can't decide what Beelzebub is said are true, or he just makes it up to terrify her.

In the best case of scenario, he just makes up the whole story. Still in that case these terrifying creatures and their strong soldiers still in the city. They could easily level the entire settlement and kill everyone in the scene with little effort, and she was sure Beelzebub and the mysterious dark warrior who sat beside him are more than they seem.

She is lost either way, and there was no way out the situation. In her desperation, she could only smile.

"You spoke about they perform miracles. Can you tell us an example?" Inquired the young Myui.

"Don't start Beelzebub…" Thought Momonga desperately.

"Let me think…" Beelzebub thought for a moment. "I will not tell them about they can resurrect dead without a sweat… That would be too early… Seeing poor Piña face, she is moments away to threw up her dinner."

"Their miracles for example. Healing crippled people with a single touch. Giving blessings to others what can grant them strength, intellect or simply made them luckier in the life. Making whole islands float with a flick of their hand. Giving back people youth. Appearing multiple places whenever they want wherever they want. Crushing armies with only one attacks. Etcetera. I could list their miracles until the day turns into night… And they still angry when the people call them gods. Funny isn't it?" Beelzebub shook his head while closed his eyes disapprovingly and smiled.

"At least he did not blurt out we can resurrect dead people…" Momonga sighed in a relieved tone inwardly.

"But that's enough of my home. I would like to hear about your Piña. Your people seems pretty decent, and despite the city state I think it is a great place in the time of peace." He smiled charmingly the turned to the young countess.

"And you Countess Myui. It seems despite your young age. You lead this town successfully. I clearly see. You will be a great leader in the future."

All of Piña and Myui concerns about Beelzebub suddenly flew away when they turned their faces away. Piña started to feel as butterflies starting to dance in her stomach. "T-Thank you… You are too kind Prince Beelzebub. B-But it is all thanks to my advisors." Answered Myui shyly.

Beelzebub smiled. "Maybe, but without you. The whole city would be in chaos, and numerous politicians try to take over the city. Even if that mean they had to assassinate each other. Don't forget. A king is no king without his people, but a people without their king would be lost as well."

Myui nodded. Then started to smiled. "Thank you. It is good to hear some encouraging words time to time. After father death. I don't hear much these kind of words."

"Don't mention it." Answered Beelzebub.

"I also like to genuinely thank you once again to came to our aid in time of need Prince Beelzebub." Myui bowed her head in humiliation.

"As I said. Don't mention it. Do you know what my father old comrade always said?"

"What is it?" asked the little Countess with a keen interest in her tone.

"If the road is harsh, it is only natural to take your sword and help." Quoted Beelzebub the Supreme Being Touch Me words.

Myui nodded. "It is a good saying."

With that the dinner and conversation continued

Scene Change: In the courtyard of Italica main gate:

The courtyard before the main entrance of Italica was full with life. Well… Not only life. But with unlife as well. The undead soldiers of the Sorcerer King and the black armored Nephalem Guards who've already sheathed away their energy weapons marched across the courtyard with pairs.

Looking for any remaining hiding bandit around the city, keeping up the peace on the fire scorched streets, repairing the damage what the attack caused and helped the citizens with their problems. But this task mostly done by the golden armored honor guards. Due their appearance was less threatening than their undead and black armored colleagues.

Still, many citizens often jumped back when they are approached by either a massive Beastman soldier or a Lizardman.

Rory curiously inspected one of the Death Knight who guarded the nearby area. The energies what it emitted remembered her master. Emroy the god of darkness. The creature emitted pure darkness and death from itself and its weapons. As she leaned closer, the monster remained motionless only periodically releasing a weak growl and small white cold mist of death from its mouth.

Two evil red light dimmed in its eye socket what could easily terrify any normal people around the creature. And Rory felt as the hate just radiates from it towards every living being. Its sword only held back by its strong bond with its master and the command what it gave the creature.

She occasionally poked the creature what it answered with a weak growl. Sensing the girl is currently not a threat. It did not raise its weapons against her. But after being bored by the creature poking and spotting Raidyn in the middle of the courtyard she left it. With that, the lone undead guard continued its endless duty.

Still, Rory would gladly meet this creature creator. If it can create such strong unliving beings, the creator of these creatures must be a strong connection to Emroy. A person who she would gladly meet.

As Raidyn ordered the soldiers. Rory stepped beside her. Strangely she was immediately followed by Itami, Lelei, Tuka and Kuribayashi. The silence descended between them. Raidyn sighed. Thinking about how she could explain the others what happened two hours before.

She looked up to the sky. "The sky is beautiful in the night. Don't you think?"

Everyone looked at the sky and nodded. "Indeed." Said Itami with a smiling expression. But the short Kuribayashi shook him out from the beautiful moment.

"How could you think about such things? Why don't you or Momon told us about you two are with these guys!? We almost died because you did not tell about not to shot those creatures!" he pointed towards the patrolling summoned creatures.

"Not speaking about many of our men could die in the process!" The muscular woman asked in an angered tone as she grabbed Raidyn leather long coat and tried to pull her face towards herself. What Raidyn let.

Raidyn sighed. She wanted to answer. But Itami grabbed Shino's wrist. "Shino it is enough… I think she and Momon-kun would tell us about their role in the events what unfolded tonight if they had the permission from their superiors. Right?" asked Itami with an unusual serious face. At least this face was strange from him.

Raidyn started to scratch her face nervously. "Well… Actually. We had the permission to told you who we are."

Everyone in the group sweat dropped. "Then why!? Why did you not told us?" frowned Kuribayashi.

"No one asked us specifically where are we from. You just asked who we are and where are we came from. What we. If my memories did not cheat me. Told you honestly. We said we are adamantine ranked adventurers from a very far away kingdom. You never actually asked that country is in this world or not." Raidyn held up her arms with an 'I can't do anything about with the situation position.' as she explained the things.

Itami laughed nervously as he scratched the back of his head. "Whoops… Then it is really our fault."

Shino looked at him with an angry expression then turned back to Raidyn.

"This is still not explaining how your soldiers were able to force down a whole combat group with Cooper support above all with barely a few causalities?! If I saw everything right from the ground and what I heard from the guys from the combat group is true. The soldiers of your kingdom were not even afraid when the helicopters started to shoot them with guns. With guns! What by the way! Utterly terrify the denizens of this world!" Lelei wanted to stop Kuribayashi placing her hand on her shoulder.

Rory just inspected the scene with keen interest. Waiting Raidyn retort and her insanity burst out. But she did not felt any kind of insanity from her like before. What she felt was… similar sadness and regret. No. Or the feeling of complete emptiness. She did not know really because some strange spell distorted her perception.

Kuribayashi looked to Lelei with a furious expression. "No. Lelei! I had to say what I had to say!" Lelei stepped back a step seeing the furious expression on Shino's face. She continued.

"What about the reaction time of those combat groups of yours?! They were inhuman! Just what were they?! The guys from the combat group speak about some kind of glowing-eyed black armored demons what simply grabbed them and threw them out from the copters! They were even unable to bend their armors by close range shots, and their bayonets just broke when they stabbed them!"

Raidyn shook her head. "Shino. I…." But she was unable to continue due Kuribayashi cut her off.

"Don't Shino me! Answer me dammit! What about when they simply grabbed the sticks and put down the choppers without any hardship Like they were some kind of professional glorified pilots with decades of practice behind their back! And when I heard the soldiers from your kingdom said you and Momon some sort of glorified God kins! Explain now!" she yelled furiously.

Raidyn sighed and shook her head. Tuka stiffened herself and watched with fear what will happen when Raidyn once loses her head. If her joyful madness once turns into an angry madness. She wanted to be as far as she can from her.

Itami was an easy going guy. But what is enough is enough. He sometimes knows everyone needed to vent their rage. But Shino went too far this time. She was a soldier after all. Proud member of the JSDF. Not a civilian. "Sergeant First Class Kuribayashi! That's enough! If you…"

Raidyn raised her hand. "Itami-kun. It is okay. She is right. Let her finish went her rage." Said the adamantine ranked Adventurer.

Itami nodded shamefully seeing his fellow soldier behavior.

"Please continue. I will promise I will answer your every question as honest as I can."

Shino nodded. Took a deep breath and calmed herself down. "I am sorry… I went too far… Please forgive me." She bowed deeply. Following the traditional Japanese apologetic protocol

"Don't apologize Shino-chan. It is partly our fault." Raidyn sighed. "We should tell you who we are from in the first place. Damn! This is the worst way to start an acquaintance. Let me start again." she straightened herself once again and turned to the little group.

Her sad expression turned into a bright one. "I am Raidyn. Former retired adamantine class adventurer. It is nice to meet you all again!" she joked and bowed playfully.

Everyone mouth curled to smile in this comical act in the group. "It is nice to meet you Raidyn." Joked Itami and started to laugh.

An unknown golden armored broad shouldered elf and Hamusuke walked side by side of each other. on the other side of the courtyard. The elf wore an exquisitely crafted golden armor what was adorned by various sun symbols. He wore a silver shield on his back, a massive two-handed black sword underneath the shield and a shorter sword on his waist. He has long straight, blonde hair what was neatly stitched together to a horse tail.

He had emerald green eyes what seemed shine through the darkness of the night. He was Zeno Cruzerious. Also known as the Sun Knight. One of the strongest adamantine ranked adventurer in the kingdom and the first being who impressed the Sorcerer King in such degree. The Sorcerer King personally knighted him and granted him the title. Knight of Ainz Ooal Gown.

Currently, he was in the town due he came to explore the area with his team and stumbled into the city together with his adventuring companions.

Beside him strolled Hamusuke on her four pawns. She was also known two hundred years earlier as the Virtuous King of the Forest. He is now with Hamusuke. Due his colleagues were gone to explore the city and when he saw Hamusuke, he decided to speak with his old master's mount. Who trained him entirely from his childhood.

The huge Djungarian Hamster who wore her reinforced bluish black adamantine armor and has a long almost three-meter-long metallic tail. Was the mount of Raidyn back in her adventurer's day. But since Raidyn retired from adventuring she served in the Sorcerer Kingdom's army time for time together with her descendants.

Although she was around 400 years old, she kept herself quite well. The two of them walked across the courtyard and conversed with each other. When the elf who walked beside Hamusuke recognized a similar figure, who spoke with four stranger in the middle of the courtyard.

"Hamusuke. Are my eyes play with me? Or is that really Raidyn-sama?" asked Zeno while pointed to the slender female figure in the middle of the courtyard.

Hamusuke looked in her direction and nodded. "Yes, that is the Milady personally." She said proudly and nodded.

Zeno grabbed her armor and pulled her down. "Why don't you told me she is here!? You know how long I did not meet her? More than seventy-five years!"

Hamusuke stiffened. "I-I am sorry. Zeno-dono. I just simply forgot."

Zeno let Hamusuke armor and sighed. "Does not matter. Come let's meet her."

Hamusuke nodded and walked together with Zeno.

They approached Raidyn.

"Master! It is good to see you again!" greeted her Zeno.

After Raidyn finished her laugh and turned to her former apprentice.

"Hey, Zeno-kun! Long-time no sees!" she waved him.

Zeno walked to her and embraced her in a tight hug. In the embrace of the massive man Raidyn completely disappeared. It seemed the well-built man would snap the thin woman at the half at any moment with his tight hug. From behind it seemed Zeno is hugging himself not his petite tutor. Raidyn let her former friend and apprentice hug her little while. Then patted a few times his back.

"It is okay Zeno-kun. I know you missed me, but you know what I think about long hugs. It brings out my claustrophobic nature, and you know what happens then..." Zeno loosened a little bit from his hug as he heard his former tutor similarly honeyed words. And looked at her face.

She smiled at him with 'that' smile. The smile what Zeno know too well to made fun of it. For the innocent outsiders. This was an adorable smile from a beautiful woman what could melt away every man heart from a single glance at it. But for Zeno. It was a dreadful terrifying smile of agony. He is known this smile too well to made fun of it.

He stepped one step back and let his master go from his embrace. Thinking back what used to happened when his master is smiling like that. The expression of dread moved on his face. "I am a sorry master. I just saw you such long time." He explained and bowed his head humiliatingly.

"Zeno-kun! You know what I said. Don't call me master because it makes me feel old."

Zeno bowed his head. "Yes, master. You also said do not call you sadistic queen. Yet I do it anyway." He started to smirk.

Raidyn grabbed his long ear and started to punish him like in old times. "I said. Do not call me that. I am not some kind of queen. I am not some glorified royalty!"

Itami and the others watched them with a dumbfounded expression.

Meanwhile, Raidyn tortured Zeno with various ways. Hamusuke sighed. "Milady. You are not changed at all." Hamusuke shook her head.

Itami jumped up after he looked in the direction of the female voice. "W-Who are you?" he asked in a flabbergasted tone.

"This one get the name Hamusuke from the Milady 200 years ago. And since then this one is the faithful servant of the Milady and the Milord. And Milady personal mount back in her adventurer's days." Explained Hamusuke.

"Milady?" asked Kuribayashi. Hamusuke looked at Raidyn. Then back to Kuribayashi. Lelei watched with keen interest Hamusuke and touched the part of her soft silky fur what was out of her armor.

"Soft…." Said the petite blue haired mage.

Hamusuke turned to her and tilted her adorable hamster head. "Who are you?"

"I am Lelei La Lalena." Answered the petite blue haired mage shortly. Hamusuke nodded. "It is good to meet you Miss Lelei."

Itami grumbled in himself. "A huge speaking hamster who used as a mount. What is this? Some kind of weird MMORPG where you can collect exotic mounts? I mean this is cool. But everything has a limit."

Raidyn finished with Zeno's torture. "This will teach you not to call me with those titles."

The bloodied Zeno stood up with difficulty with a big smirk on his face. "Just like old times master. You did not change at all!"

Then he recognized Itami and the others and straightened himself. "I am sorry for this scene. I just don't meet my tutor such long time. I hope I did not offend you."

Itami and the others nodded. Then pointed to Zeno with a surprised expression when he realized what he said before. "Wait!? You say she is your teacher!?"

Zeno nodded. "Yes, and without her, I would not be reached my dreams and would die in the slums of the elf capital a long time ago. I still remember when she first threw me into the pit of nightmares." He fondled his chin and nodded with a satisfied expression.

"P-Pit of Nightmares? Asked Tuka with a direful tone.

Zeno nodded. "Yes, I still remember. I was only twelve, and one of my exams was what decided if she trains me or not was too threw me into that pit what swarmed with monsters with only one knife to use. Then let me here for one month figure out the riddle what she gave me and meanwhile I had to survive." He explained.

A dread moved into Tuka, Itami and Kuribayashi face. Lelei's eyes widened. Rory only smirked.

"But let the past go. I don't even introduce myself." He bowed. "I am Zeno Cruzerious. The leader of the adamantine ranked adventurer group Sun Breakers."

Itami stepped forward and shook hands with him. "I am First Lieutenant Yōji Itami. She is Sergeant First Class Shino Kuribayashi." Kuribayashi nodded. Zeno bowed his head respectfully. "It is good to meet you milady."

Shino turned her head away while blushed.

"She is Lelei La Lalena." He motioned to the blue haired petite mage. The elf adventurer and the blue haired mage nodded to each other with respect.

Then Itami motioned to the still shy Tuka. "And she is Tuka Luna Marceau."

Zeno bowed his head slightly and looked deeply into Tuka's blue eyes. "It 's nice to meet you milady. I did not know such beauties like yourself live in this world," he said in his usual charming tone.

Blue eye met emerald green, and Tuka suddenly caught her head away. Despite she was somewhat found Raidyn more appealing for appearance. She would not say to no to Zeno if he asked her if he wants to date with her.

She only did not ask out Raidyn because of her little crazy nature. Despite this when the four of them spent together a night near the JSDF base. They came out quite well. However, the spirits warned her to be aware of Raidyn because she is hiding something under a strong spell what they were unable to even peek behind it.

And when the two of them spoke. She felt. She is lonely, and she hides it under her cheerful nature.

"Marceau? Marceau? I know this was Tuka's last name but every time I hear it something came into my mind, but I don't know what. This name sounds similar to me." Though Raidyn. "It was not that guy last name who we saved back in the forest?" she thought for a moment. "Never mind. Not important right now." she shook her head.

Tuka nodded timidly. "Likewise Zeno-san…"

"And I am Rory Mercury. Apostle of Emroy. The god of war, violence, darkness and death." She raised her skirt and made a curtsey.

"It is good to meet you, Miss Mercury. You spoke about this Emroy. But the gods what I know represent these aspects don't wear the name Emroy. Care to elaborate what kind of deity you worship?" asked Zeno curiously.

Rory mouth curled into a smile and nodded. "Of course, after all. As the apostolate of Emroy. It is my duty to spread his name. He is the God of Darkness, War, Death, Violence, and Insanity…" and with that, she started to speak her long speech about her god.

The sun knight patiently listened to her and nodded. "I see… Very interesting."

"So, do you want to follow Emroy? Zeno-san? I feel you have great power. Think about it! What kind of massacre you can accomplish with your strength and the blessing of Emroy! What kind of insanity you could spread across the battlefield!" urged him, Rory.

Zeno just smiled. "Thank you, Miss. Mercury. But my faith is imperturbable in the forty-one. Especially my patron gods. Touch Me-sama, the patron of the Paladins and the Lord of light and Warrior Takemikazuchi-sama the patron of crafters and warriors." He took out two tiny statues under his armor. They are hung on a chain.

Itami thought for a moment. "What kind of deity is called Touch Me? And Warrior Takemikazuchi? His god names sound like they came from some kind of MMORPG." He shook his head. "Never mind Different culture different habits. I will ask about it Raidyn or Momon later. After all the princess is named after a cocktail. That Touch Me name is not strange at all if you look at that way."

Rory tilted her head curiously. "Forty-One? I never heard of them."

Itami looked at her. "You don't?" Rory shook her head again.

Then Itami looked to Tuka and Lelei. Both of them shook their head in unison.

Zeno smiled. "Not surprising. We are new in this world after all. Let me give you a quick explanation."

Every one of them listened to him with great care. "Two hundred years ago. The world was in chaos. Corrupt governments, dragon lords, and monsters ruled over the lands. The humanoid races were cornered due they fought against each other constantly and the stronger races like Beastman, demons, Merman were a lot stronger than the humanoid races and used them as a food source. Thus pushed the humanoid races in the edge of extinction."

"Food?" asked Itami.

The sun knight nodded. "Food. You know. Those big guys." He pointed one of his Beastman soldiers.

"Their favorite delicacies used to be living humanoid babies. Consumed by alive." Explained Zeno.

Lelei and Tuka stiffened a little hearing this explanation.

"That's horrible!" said Kuribayashi with a horrified expression.

Zeno nodded. "Exactly. This is why the Sorcerer King banned this permanently and searched for an alternate source of food for them. In the old times. The people lived with a constant fear from the Dragon Lords whose were the strongest creatures in that time." Explained Creon. Tuka a little-stiffened hearing about the dragon lords.

"The people worshiped false deities with false, empty promises. People explained genocide with religious and other pointless reasons. We lived in fear. Then…" he looked around.

"The two Supreme Beings and their vassals has been arrived in the world and started their crusade against the corruption and inequality among races. The two remained Supreme Beings, and their vassals descended from the heavens, and their power was unmatched."

The stare intensified as Zeno continued his story.

"According to the history books and many ones who witnessed their acts personally. They annihilated whole armies with a single spell, transformed the whole facade of the landscape. The sky and the ground shattered in their wake. And the Dragon Lords fell feeling their wrath. They taught us how to survive. They preserved us."

Rory listened more and more curiously.

"This seems a little far-fetched." Said Kuribayashi.

Raidyn sweat dropped. "When you became this zealous Zeno-kun? I don't remember I raised you like this."

Zeno just smiled at her. "Miss Kuribayashi. Correct?" asked the sun knight.

Kuribayashi nodded. He stepped closer to her. "What if I say. Two from the forty-one walks among us even today. Granting us miracles personally if we work hard enough."

"Why do you think they are gods?" asked Lelei suddenly.

Rory nodded. "Yes, according to my knowledge. Gods are incapable of walking amongst mortals without proper vessels. And the mortal bodies are too weak to store their consciousness for a longer period without it demanding the host life as a sacrifice." explained the demigoddess.

Zeno smiled. "If my theory is right. Then they are not like your gods. The two of them walking amongst us every day. But despite their power and divine miracles. They always claim they are not gods. According to me. A God can't call itself a God. Because it is not uppish with its position to claim the title. A real god do not claim what it is because it is unnecessary for it. A real God does not need worshippers either require anything in return for their help. The people recognize it if they see or feel one's presence."

"Then why do you call them gods?" inquired Rory with an angry face. "If they do not claim the title. They are not gods."

Raidyn stopped them. "Guys, guys… Stop this. We are not here to prattle about religion. Shall we?"

Everyone amongst them nodded. Zeno and Rory still glared at each other. Somehow the light energies what Zeno armor emitted bothered Rory. It remembered her too much Zufmuut-presence the God of Light and Order. Being Zufmuut the polar opposite of Emroy. Rory did not like such presence at all.

Zeno and Rory stared each other intensively for a moment. Then Zeno burst out in laughter. Rory doesn't understand this tilted her head.

"I like you, little girl! Come let's drink something strong!" he smirked.

Rory puffed her face in an offended way because Zeno called her a child despite her real age.

The golden clad warrior turned back to his old master.

"You are a right master. We are not here to debate religion After all. In the Sorcerer kingdom. Everyone is free to think whatever they want until it does not violate others right or not try to force them to conversion. Even it is offensive towards the Supreme Beings."

Raidyn bopped Zeno's head heavily. "You damn right kid! You damn right!" Zeno caught off his head and turned to his master with a desperate, painfull face. "What was that for master!?"

"You know damn right brat!" she scolded him with an angry expression.

Zeno lowered his head. "Sorry…"

Itami wanted to ask something. But suddenly he heard Sergeant Mayor Kuwahara trying to connect him via his radio. "First Lieutenant Itami! We are waiting for you more than an hour! Please respond. Over."

Itami grabbed his radio and responded. "Sergeant Mayor Kuwahara. A few minutes and we will be there. Over."

"Acknowledged. Over."

Itami sighed. "Well, then this is the to say goodbye. I hope we can see each other again."

Raidyn nodded while smiled. "I hope as well. Take care of yourselves. Lelei, Tuka, Shino, Rory, Itami."

They all nodded to her then turned around and headed back to the cars.

Raidyn sighed then turned her former apprentice. "Come Zeno. I just finished with the task distribution. Let's grab some grubs and drink something. Then you can tell me about how your life went in the last seventy-five years."

Zeno nodded with a happy expression. "Only if you do the same master."

Raidyn eyes started to twitch for a moment. Then sighed and shook her head. "Kids like you made me retire one century ago."

Zeno chuckled. "I am sure Raidyn-sama there is an another explanation for that." With that, the two of them headed towards the closest inn. The armored Hamusuke followed them.

Scene Change: Fortress Gown:

Multiple silver armored guards from various races escorted three beautiful women in a long corridor. Among them was Albedo, Shalltear Bloodfallen, and Zesshi Zetsumei. As the three of them walked along in the long corridors. The various standing guards and summoned creatures started to kneel one after another. As the three of them reached in their approximate five-meter radius. Approximately one minute walking later they reached a big double door where two five meters tall huge black armored creature guarded the peace of the owner of the office.

As they reached the door. The massive double doors automatically opened before them. In the spacious room. An elegantly dressed devil sat behind of his desk. Inspecting the reports what he freshly got from the scouting forces.

He looked up from the papers as he felt his two colleagues and Zesshi presence. He stood up and bowed before them. "Albedo, Shalltear, Zesshi. What a pleasant surprise."

The three woman nodded to him respectfully.

"The guard captain informed me your arrival. I am very sorry I could not go out to welcome you. As you see I am very busy at the moment." Explained himself Demiurge.

"It is fine Demiurge. You work for Ainz-sama. As expected from you the tactical commander of Nazarick. It is hard to admit. But you were always the one who worked hardest amongst us."

Shalltear turned to Albedo with an offended face. "That's not true! I work as hard for Ainz-sama as Demiurge! You gorilla!"

The Guardian overseer turned her twitching face towards Shalltear with a dangerous gaze and wanted to retort.

"Albedo, Shalltear. As much I am enjoying watching you two. I assume you three are here because you has something important matter to discuss with me." Said Demiurge as he watched them behind his glasses.

Albedo nodded. "Yes, please forgive our behavior Demiurge. But we are a little tense."

"Why is that?" asked Demiurge curiously.

"Is Esdeath-sama somewhere here in the fort? I need her here to discuss something important. And I would…"

"We…" interjected Shalltear.

Albedo scoffed then turned back to Demiurge. "We would like to discuss and important matter. What only can be discussed in private. Among five of us."

Demiurge subtly signed to the guards to leave the room. The summoned and the living guards bowed deeply and left the room. Leaving the four of them in private.

Demiurge sat down and motioned the three of them to sat down in the chair what the servants previously prepared for the three ladies.

Demiurge folded his hands before himself. "Esdeath-sama currently out of the fortress. As usual, she disappeared in the first given opportunity to personally scout the region as an adventurer. After she left her instructions if the situation so far degenerates to require her instructions."

Zesshi nodded. "I see."

"Beelzebub?" asked Albedo curiously.

"Beelzebub-sama journeyed with his honor guard in the closest trade city to made arrangements our further expansion and the vassalization of this empire."

"Then you don't know?" said Albedo with a curious tone.

"What? Can you explain me?" asked Demiurge curiously.

"Ainz-sama disappeared." Explained Albedo.

"How? How this that possible?! Did something happen with Ainz-sama? Answer me!" Demiurge jumped up from his seat and panicked for a moment, and a frightened expression moved in his face. Then calmed himself down and adjusted his glasses.

"Excuse my unusual behavior."

Albedo looked at him. "It seems Ainz-sama as well Esdeath-sama went out adventuring as two hundred years ago. But this time Ainz-sama did this without our knowledge. He managed to get away under our nose. If I assume it right. He is with Esdeath-sama and the two of them work together for the kingdom right now."

"How do you know this?" asked Demiurge with a serious expression.

"Pandora Actor." With that Albedo started her explanation.

Flashback:

After one and a half day of pursuing. The three queens of Ainz managed to corner Pandora's Actor and remove his Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown. Preventing him from teleporting freely anywhere in the Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick. They managed to corner him in the sixth floor after they asked the for now already matured floor guardians. Aura and Mare. And the leader of the Pleiades of seven stars. Aureole Omega. To help and seal down the entrance of the exits of the floor.

Aureole Omega was the leader of the Pleiades seven stars, and she is charged with the task to oversee the teleportation gates of Nazarick.

Mare Bello Fiore and Aura Bello Fiore were the twin dark elf Floor Guardians of the sixth floor, and the two of them oversaw and ruled the regions of the world where the elves lived.

The three woman stood above Pandora's Actor tortured body. His previously stainless uniform was full of dirt. His body became full of the bruises what caused by the guardian overseer, Shalltear, and Zesshi unending assaults.

"Erbarme dich! Damen! Erbarme dich!" (Have mercy! Ladies! Have mercy!) Pandora's Actor pleaded desperatedly.

But the three of them did not let him with get away just like that. They hit him until he was unable to upkeep with it. Despite he even took on multiple Supreme Beings form. He was unable to mimic fully their abilities and escape from the three furious woman. And the two additional floor guardian's wrath.

In the end, he was forced to tell them everything. But his master already said if he accepts this task he will most likely lynch by his three wives. Despite this, he accepted and endured the punishment after they caught him. Because this was his creator personal request.

Fortunately, Ainz authorized him if the three of them corner him. He can tell where he is. But with that condition, he needed to stall them as much as possible. So Ainz has time to finish his secret mission what he kept in such secret. He did not tell even for him. His own creation doesn't know anything about it. Pandora's Actor only knows his master went through the structure under a fake persona to complete some kind of mission.

Flashback end

His usual sinister smile moved back to Demiurge's face and his mouth curled upward in satisfaction. "As expected Ainz-sama. Even with this situation he goes personally in the field and works for us. And if he is accompanied with Esdeath-sama. We don't have to worry about them. I am sure the two of them can look after each other. They only don't tell us about their plan because they did not want us to worry about them needlessly." Explained Demiurge.

Albedo nodded. "I thought the same. Still, we need to locate them as soon as possible. So we can make sure for their wellbeing and send at least a few Eight Legged assassin's to oversee their safety."

Demiurge nodded. "I agree. But we must be discrete. I think Ainz-sama already knew we would realize his plan and made the necessary steps."

"Did you find out anything else Demiurge? Do you have something else to report?" asked the beautiful Albedo.

Demiurge nodded with a satisfied expression. "Yes, we discovered an outpost ten miles away from our position." He pointed the location on the map before him.

Albedo, Shalltear, and Zesshi looked at the area where Demiurge pointed. Then nodded.

"Their technological level is way above the denizens of this world, and we found an another structure similar to ours underneath a dome. If my theory is right. They came from an another world like ours. Two of their flying machines even entered our airspace. But our patrolling flying units managed to fend them off easily." Explained Demiurge with a great satisfaction in his voice.

"Did you destroyed those inferior beings base who dared to defile the domains of the Supreme Beings!?" asked Shalltear with a vehement tone.

"No. We did not make any steps against them. Currently, we are only collecting information about them. Bobby trapping their base and devices. Recovering samples of their technology. Additional measures are not necessary until further notice."

Shalltear gritted her teeth. "I will go and destroy those inferior creatures myself then." The vampire geisha stood up. "Their presence is staining the realm of the Supreme Beings. I-I just can't stand it."

The heterochromatic eyed woman stood up as well. "I will go with you Shalltear! Just thinking about an enemy force lurking in my love territory. Unacceptable!"

Demiurge squinted his eyes angrily. "Zesshi, Shalltear. Please stand down. I know you two are strong enough to take care of that base even alone. But please sat down and wait for further instruction from the Supreme Beings. Zero is in their base collecting information about them at the moment. If he finds anything suspicious. He will report to us immediately."

"What is the tactical assessment of that base and the enemy force in it?" asked Albedo curiously while she kept up her calm. Smiling facade.

"Hm. Technologically they are quite advanced. But they are almost incapable of magic. Our magical survey revealed even the strongest amongst them are only capable of the second tier of the magic. And the few of them who are capable of magic was unaware of it. They are either don't know about their capabilities or afraid to use it." Explained Demiurge with a great level of detail.

"Then they are easy targets." Said Zesshi in a bored tone. "I hoped some challenge."

The archdevil folded his hands before himself and started to smile sinisterly in the hiding of his hands. "Maybe it seems at first. But according to Zero reports. They balance their lack of magic with technology. The base what they built around their gate were quite well constructed. Without an inner sabotage or one or two higher level, vassals help a frontal assault would be a high risk of great losses. Even with the death knight increased defense. They can cripple them with their explosive devices and their automated chemical reaction based projectile weapons. However primitive they seem. They are effective enough to penetrate the weaker mages barriers after a few series of shots."

Albedo nodded. "I see… "

"What do you plan guardian overseer?" asked Demiurge suspiciously.

Demiurge did not want to admit. But sometimes even he. The archdevil who are personally designed by a Supreme Being. Ulbert Alain Odle. To be the defensive commander of Nazarick and a genius when it comes to battlefield planning and many other things. Sometimes even he stumbled in the darkness and required a little time to see through the Guardian Overseer complex plans.

Shalltear and Zesshi turned in her direction.

Albedo beautiful smiled turned into a sinister one.

Scene Change: Italica: That evening

The Knights had reached Italica borders at last. Bozes and Panache, relieved after seeing the city from the far and, decided to report to Piña and apologize for not being able to make it to the battle. However, not only did Piña not blame them for that, but she even praised them for being earlier than expected.

Overjoyed from the praise, Bozes and Panache congratulated Piña on her victory and told her about their encounter with some foreigners who might have been the enemies who had taken over Arnus. They had captured one of them, and they thought Piña would have congratulated them on it.

She knows something is not right when she saw the unknown broad shouldered golden and black armored soldiers helping around the city. Repairing walls and standing guards near the breached gate.

The city was captured by an unknown force. She and every knight knew that after they saw the unknown soldiers. But if they had to die. They will die. Meanwhile, they protecting the empire and bringing glory to Piña's name.

All of them unsheathed their swords and started to charge towards the city gate what was fully open after the bandits broke it down.

Gray Co Aldo the veteran knight who just patrolled on the walls to kill time. Seeing the charging knights hurried down to the main gate where he can receive them. After all, he and Piña as well don't want any more diplomatic incidents.

Bozes and the knight suddenly stopped their horses immediately after they saw their childhood mentor and the oldest member of their order.

As the Knights reached the gate, Bozes and the other knights looked around with a terrified expression

After they had to see closer unknown golden armored soldiers from various races, horrible skeletal faced massive creatures with huge tower shields and serrated swords and black armored broad shouldered unknown beings patrolling the streets and repairing the walls.

Their face became completely pale. The stench of death and strength what those creatures emitted. It was so overwhelming. Many of the inexperienced knights almost fainted and vomited in that instant.

After they had seen one of the horrible creature marching behind Gray, they raised their bow and shot towards the creature.

Gray signed them desperately to stop, but it was too late. The weak arrows reached the undead Death Knight and simply bounced off its sturdy armor. It turned towards them. Raised its shield and started to march towards them.

Seeing the prattle, Creon hurried beside Gray and just wanted to give the order to his soldiers to attack.

But Gray stopped him.

"Please forgive them. They don't know the city under your Kingdom' protection." The veteran knight bowed his head as an apology. Creon nodded. "Fine. But we keep up our guard." He signed the honor guard and the Death Knight in the scene to keep their weapons ready.

Bozes looked around with a terrified face as she and the knights approached Gray and the Captain of the honor guard. "G- Gray … What is this? Who is these enemy soldiers? What are those creatures? Who is this."

Gray sighed in an exhausted tone. "They and the men in green helped us to fend off the attacking defectors. And these soldiers remained to keep up the peace. He is Creon Karalis. The captain of the honor guard of Prince Beelzebub. He offered his soldiers to protect the city until we recover. "Explained Gray.

Creon bowed his head to Bozes and the other knights. "My ladies."

Bozes and the other knights nodded in response. "W-What are these creatures?" asked Bozes in a terrified tone.

Creon smiled in an amused way. "The Sorcerer Kingdom forces not only contains living beings but undead and other creatures as well. They are our soldiers of course." explained the captain.

Bozes and the other knights gulped nervously and wanted to grab their swords.

Creon raised his hand in and assuring way. "But don't worry. They will not attack only if you attack them or we gave the orders for the attacks."

Bozes nodded nervously.

Gray sighed in an exhausted tone. The last night was long enough. And now he had to deal with inexperienced children. True they were enthusiastic. But they were still inexperienced children compared to the veteran warrior like himself and the elite forces of the Sorcerer Kingdom.

"Come with me. Princess Piña is already waiting for you. She will explain the situation in her office."

He wanted to turn away when suddenly saw the unconscious tortured bound Itami in behind one of the knight horse's.

Gray eyes widened and started to massage his nose temple. "Now you did it. Her Majesty will not be pleased." scolded them Gray nervously.

Bozes and the other knights looked at their old mentor with a dumbfounded expression. Gray walked beside Itami. He cut his ropes what bounded his hands and placed him on his shoulder. "Follow me."

Bozes and the other knights nodded nervously and followed the veteran knight.

Bozes and Panache did not know why Piña had not only scolded them but had even thrown a goblet at them.

"We broke the treaty in less than a day, and it just had to be him…"

Hamilton peeked at their prisoner, who was in the corner of the room.

Itami lay there, his body devoid of strength.

Hamilton placed a hand on his shoulder and shook him while shouting, "Itami-dono, Itami-dono." But Itami was covered in abrasions, and he sported many bruises from being beaten by many people, so his physical and mental stamina was depleted, to the point where he couldn't even answer her.

It was not hard to imagine what had happened to him on the way back here from looking at him.

"Hamilton, how is Itami-dono?" asked Piña with a great amount of worry.

"It looks like he's been hurt pretty badly, we need to get him care immediately.

Beelzebub who was in the scene interjected. "We have faith-based magic casters among our soldiers. We can heal him fully under mere moments if you want." Offered the heir of Ainz.

Piña gritted her teeth. "No. Thank you, the kind offers Prince Beelzebub. But we can take care of it." She looked to Beelzebub with the eyes of regret. Then squinted her eyes and looked accusingly to her subordinates. "It was our fault after all."

Beelzebub bowed his head. "As you wish. But if you need any assistance. Don't hesitate to call us. Our healers really know their stuff."

Piña bowed her head with a humiliating way. "Thank you, but that will be not necessary. It was my subordinates fault. The least we can do is to take care of him." explained the princess of the empire.

Beelzebub nodded to her accepting her decision. "Very well. Do as you wish."

Then she summoned the chief maid of House Formal and said, "Sorry, we'll leave him to you." The old maid and butler replied, "Understood," and then the maids came together to form a human wall around Itami. He has transported away in this manner.

After watching Itami leave, Piña fiercely snapped her head back.

She looked just like a demon then, and after slapping Bozes — who was a bit taller than her — square in the face, she began questioning her.

"What on earth did you lot do to Itami-dono?!"

"We, we just brought him here the way we would a normal prisoner…"

The normal way of treating prisoners, for the Empire, usually involved dragging them behind a horse, and when the prisoners collapsed from exhaustion, they would be poked with spears or lashed with the flat of a blade, forcing them to rise and continue. Even if they did stand, however, they would still be brutalized with fists and feet. In this way, the prisoners would lose the will and strength to resist or flee, and it was also part of the process of breaking them before selling them as slaves.

"I assume you want to speak with your knights privately."

Piña nodded. "Yes, thank you."

With that Beelzebub left Piña's office. And when they were in the middle of an exciting game what the princess introduced him. What a shame.

Piña started to mutter after Beelzebub left her office, "This is bad, this is dreadful." She grabbed her head with both hands and shuddered as she tried to suppress the rage running rampant through her body.

If one thought calmly about it, it was not entirely Bozes' or Panache's fault. After all, they had been handling an enemy who had taken over Arnus, and they could not possibly have known Piña had signed a treaty with them. At least they did not offend the Sorcerer Kingdom' forces. Oh, no. They also did that. They attacked one of the creatures back then.

However, sometimes, unlikely things like this simply happened. The fact was that the JSDF had immediately withdrawn from Italica once the treaty took effect. Excuses like "they did not know" or "they were told too late" would not work. After all, the ones who wanted the treaty to take effect immediately had been Piña's side. Itami had been captured after the treaty came into effect, and worse, it had happened within House Formal's domain, where they were guaranteed free passage.

These actions would break both treaties. There was no doubt about it.

This was a preferred tactic of the Empire, starting a war on the pretext of a treaty violation. Violations of Treaties often happened in a world with poor communications like this one, with subordinate units fighting on long after the rest of them had surrendered because nobody told them to stop.

It was because the Empire did these things often that they felt the JSDF would do the same to them.

A chill ran down Piña's spine.

The music which rang across the sky. The battle of Valkyries and the demons sneer now echoed inside her ear. She could not help but imagine her knight band, Italica, even the whole Empire, burned to ashes by the flames of hell by the two forces. She already knew her Empire does not have a chance against them individually. But if this offensive act brought them together. She doubts even the gods can stop them.

Bozes and Panache, who had learned about the agreement Piña signed with the JSDF, the Sorcerer Kingdom and now is the city no longer the Empire's supervision. But became a free city. A neutral ground for negotiation. They learned all of this and much more from Hamilton, finally realized what they had done, what Itami had meant by "Let's talk this out" and why he had not resisted his capture.

"Itami's men should have been there, what happened to them?"

"The ran off just like that."

They had laughed at Itami because Itami's subordinates had run off instead of trying to rescue him. However, they now knew why they had chosen not to retaliate, but flee.

If they could have taken them all captive at the time, they could have wiped them all out under the pretext of the unit going missing, but if everyone else escaped, that would have been useless. Not that they could have captured them in the first place — they had Rory the Reaper with them.

Later in Piña's office she tried to figure out how to apologize from the parties.

"Your Excellency, we are fortunate that nobody's life was lost here. Rather than try and come up with some clever ruse, I feel we should sincerely apologize to them."

These were the words of Gray Co Aldo, who had been listening quietly from the side of the room.

"But these were the people who even asked us to treat these bandits 'hyu-main-lee', and they even asked us not to abuse them. If they found out what happened to Itami, don't you think that would get them mad enough to attack us?"

"Then we just need to atone for that as well."

"That is, you want me to atone for that, right? But what if the other party asks us to hand over or execute the responsible parties? I already apologized from Prince Beelzebub. But he just laughed off the accidents and said 'it is not a problem. Accidents happening time to time.' But what about the JSDF? What if they want to retort the irresponsible knight's acts?"

"Well, what else do you want to do? Declare war? These are opponents who ride iron pegasi and have magic that can set the earth ablaze, and then you have the Grim Reaper Rory Mercury to worry about. If it were me, I'd rather not chance that. We can't even ask help from Prince Beelzebub because he and the JSDF signed a non-aggression pact amongst each other. They only protect the city from the possible attackers." The fifth child of Emperor Molt grabbed her head in her desperation. "This is bad…. This is very bad…"

Even a hardened veteran like Gray was shaken to the core after seeing those horrible scenes. Piña was steeling herself to undergo any kind of humiliation as long as it would allow her to atone for this successfully.

That might be so, but, there was nobody present who was higher-ranked than her. Piña needed to avoid a situation where she might be forced to forfeit her life after Bozes and Panache admitted their guilt.

The air turned cold and heavy around them.

After a brief silence, Gray attempted to break the tension by saying in a humorous tone, "Well, in the end, the situation depends on what Itami-dono thinks about it." He laughed nervously.

It was already past midnight.

At this point, Bozes, under Piña's secret orders, had arrived at Itami's door, with a pained expression on her face. However, nobody heard her knocking.

Because Bozes was nervous, her knocking could be more accurately compared to gently caressing the door.

She waited dumbly in the dark corridor for some kind of reaction.

She continued waiting, in front of the silent, unresponsive door.

As she waited, she began to get worried about a passer-by spotting her, so she looked left and right, before taking a deep breath and exhaling to relieve her tension. Even then, she still could not gather up the courage to open the door.

"You will seduce Itami." To Bozes, that order might as well have been a death sentence.

As a noble daughter, she had long been prepared for the eventuality that someday, she would be married off to benefit her family or for political reasons.

She was familiar with the idea that as a noble daughter, she might be called on to welcome guests and ensnare them with her body.

She was also very clear about how countless heiresses throughout the Empire had to marry people who were completely unlike the knights in shining armor that they dreamed of. No matter how luxuriously they lived after that, it was just a pretty way of describing a form of transaction. In truth, since there were people who had to starve and freeze in this world, this could be considered the purpose, or perhaps, their duty, for those who could fill their bellies and dress well.

But the most insulting thing was that she was going to have to give herself to Itami.

In her dreams, Bozes imagined that she would greet a Duke, who was also a young officer of an enemy nation while dressed in an elegant sarong and enjoy an exciting, intellectual debate with him for the pleasure of verbally fencing with an equal.

Armed with her greatest weapons (her jewels), clad in her strongest armor (her dress) and wreathed in fragrant perfume, she would play love games with him.

She would tempt him with her luscious body and dull his mind with her scent, her every movement saying "Do you want me? Do you want to have me? I can give my body to you, but if you want it, you're going to have to give yourself to me…" and so on, teasing him and drawing him out until her partner surrendered completely to her, and then they would make sweet love to each other on a bed of roses.

But her dreams were just dreams, and the reality was that Itami's bed would be her battlefield. They would not bond over the clash of blades, they would not even be able to develop feelings for each other, and she had already berated him with her tongue before stepping on and kicking him. She had gone into shock when she learned the truth.

And if this was a battle, then it was no longer on even terms. After all, her body was practically exposed to him already. She had applied a thick layer of powder to cover up the cut on her forehead, garbed herself in a revealing nightgown that she had gotten from somewhere, and her hair was a mess of drills. In this tragic state, she was little more than the hourly discount at a brothel's going-out-of-business sale.

Be it physically or emotionally; she was already defeated. What kind of face would she greet Itami with? Maybe, after she entered the room, she should beg him for forgiveness and offer her body to him as a token of her sincerity.

Men were not creatures who would honor a plea like "Could you be gentle?" after you got into bed with them. If she did not manage to at least secure his kindness as a promise before she gave herself to him, it was not likely that he would listen to her once he had his way with her. Then, what was she selling herself in such haste for?

She guessed that the task of actually bringing down Itami the boss character would be left to Panache, who would be coming after her. Bozes was nothing more than an appetizer to apologize and beg his forgiveness, sacrificing herself to cancel out the terrible mistake she had made. Like a washcloth used to wipe away stains, whether it was fine silk or tatty rags, she would be used and promptly discarded.

As she thought about this, her heart ached so much that she wanted to cry. But she could not cry, not now. If she cried, her eyes would go red and swell up, and it would ruin her looks, which were to be her weapon. Of course, there were men in this world who liked to see women cry, but she would have to wait until she was before him before crying her beautiful tears. And so, the moisture brimming in the corner of her eyes remained locked up there and did not course down her cheeks.

The hallway was silent, and behind this large set of double doors was the bedroom. There was another intervening door within the bedroom. The designers' intent had been to make sure that noise from the corridor did not disturb anyone within.

And so, Bozes finally gathered enough courage to open the door, and she walked toward the separating door in the deepest reaches of the guest room, the one that had loomed large in her mind for a while, intending to go to where Itami was.

Bozes entered silently and approached the bedroom. Her plan was to silence Itami with the sensual pleasures of her body before his sense of foreboding woke him up.

However, as she opened the innermost door, what greeted her was a cheery, lively atmosphere.

The room was brightly lit with candles, and the maids were chatting and having tea with the soldiers from another world. In the room was also a silent black-clad warrior who watched the scene from the background and an unknown equally strange armor wearing stranger who laughter wholeheartedly while pointed to Itami.

Worse, nobody seemed to have noticed Bozes' presence except the black-clad warrior who looked in her direction and just simply nodded. But after a simple nod. The warrior simply turned his head away like she was not even here.

"..."

She was ignored almost completely.

"..."

She was overlooked.

"..."

She was about as substantial to them as air.

"Gggg…."

"I worked so hard to gather my resolve, and this is how you treat me?" she screamed inwardly.

"How dare you ignore me, Bozes, the second daughter of House Palesti?"

No one looked in her direction.

"What huge brass balls you have."

She was still completely ignored by the crowd in the room.

"Are you mocking me for being a rag that you throw away after filling me with your seed? "

Of course, she did not actually say that, but her rapidly-growing hysteria filled in the blanks for her. As a woman, she could not tolerate the insult of being overlooked.

The only way to vent the anger building within her was with the work of her two hands.

Although it is hardly professional to describe the following events with manga-style sound effects, I hope you readers will forgive me for writing them in this way. Right after that, she did the following:

"Tsukatsukatsukatsukatsukatsuka slap!" She slapped Itami's face with all of her power and Itami passed out again.

Itami was out of cold all night. Thanks to Bozes inhuman strength what was the result of her sudden rage and her hard knight training.

In addition to the black right eye from yesterday, now there was a bright red palm print on the left side of his face. In addition, it looked like some kind of five-clawed cat had scratched him on both cheeks. Truly, the victim's face was a picture of the tragedy.

"That… what on earth happened?"

After a huge disturbance in the middle of the night that had nearly flipped the roof of the house, the JSDF members now stood before Piña, along with Bozes, who had been dragged before her, as well as the manor's maids. Beside them stood Prince Beelzebub Raidyn, and Momon who was also present when the event happened. Due they was under his command and the two heroes had the chance to stop Bozes hand before the accident happened. Yet, they did not do it. Beelzebub felt a little responsible himself and was a little angry for the two of them.

The Imperial Princess Piña Co Lada now felt like she had swallowed a burning stone, given the scorching pain in her abdomen, and then asked for an explanation why there were more injuries on Itami's face. She was scared stiff, of course, but given her circumstances, she had to ask.

"Who else could there be but her ~nya?" said the cat maid Persia.

"Ara, but everyone knows that already, right, Miss Persia?"

After Kurata had followed up on her words, Persia led the maids aside.

"The bruise on the right eye was already there; it had nothing to do with this time."

After their testimonial, Rory, Lelei, and Tuka stepped away from the group.

The only one left was Bozes, her hands pressed behind her back by Kurata and Kuribayashi.

Bozes lowered her head. "It, it was me," she said, in a voice as loud as a mosquito's buzzing.

Piña's sigh was deeper than usual, so much so that everyone in the hall could hear it.

It wasn't just her stomach which hurt. Piña grabbed her head, which felt like it was going to explode.

"How am I going to take care of this…?"

"Well, about that, we just came to take the Lieutenant back. We'll let you guys handle the rest as you please. We're moving out at dawn."

Tomita said that in order to wash his hands of any messy responsibility. He had no idea what was going through Piña's head. To him, all he had seen was a girl he liked beating up Itami.

But the way Tomita said it, "Do as you please," sounded like an ultimatum to Piña.

And when Lelei translated it, her flat, emotionless tone made it seem even more like a threat.

"That… that is quite troubling…"

Piña could not just let 3rd Recon go like that, so she was looking for ways and means to keep them here, like saying "How about breakfast with us," "Please accept our hospitality," and so on.

Kurata stood aside and explained in an apologetic tone, "In truth, Lieutenant Itami's been summoned to address the National Diet, so he has to get back to his country by today."

Lelei's translation used a slightly different word, and thus the meaning changed.

"Lieutenant Itami has been summoned by the Nihon Senate and must return by today."

When Piña heard this, she had a look on her face much like Edvard Munch's "The Scream."

In the Empire, only individuals with super-elite bloodlines and careers were granted the honor of stepping into the Senate Chamber. A highly-placed person would have a chance to steer the ship of state and become a leader of men. Even if one were a low-ranked officer, they would be permitted to brief the senators on the progress of the war, and they might even have a chance to address the Emperor himself directly.

And once Piña learned Itami had been called to speak before their Senate, she immediately mistook him to be part of Japan's elite and an important man in his country.

"To think we upset such an important person… if this gets worse, the Empire is doomed, I have to think of something quickly...Maybe if we submit our self to the other kingdom: They maybe can protect us. Prince Beelzebub acted honorably all along. Maybe there is a chance…." Piña shook her head inside.

"No! That would mean we had to vassal ourselves to the Sorcerer Kingdom." Came the idea in her mind then suddenly waved it off.

"Besides that. My stubborn father would rather die than let that. But if things will go in this direction we may have to do that. We don't really have another chance. Either the JSDF destroy us, or we accept the other Kingdom to take over the Empire and with it. Take our freedom from us. And if what I heard from Beelzebub is true. " she thought back what Beelzebub said her near the dinner and gulped nervously.

"Then the King of the Sorcerer Kingdom is the god of death. A living God rule over them and his enforcer is the god of destruction herself! If what he said is true, namely the two of them killed gods before. That means even if the twelve God came personally to our help. We had no chance! However, as Beelzebub looked at me in the last day and from our talks. He seems honorable and nice and..." she blushed a little. "Charming... If I may try to seduce him to protect our empire without vassalize it… or maybe enter political marriage with him..." she shook her head discarding the idea.

"No! I would never sink that deep. But I have no choice…"

Panicked Piña lowered her head. Then a new idea came into her mind. "Unless…" her posture straightened as a new revolutionary but desperate idea came into her mind.

At that moment, Piña instantly made a decision.

She clenched her fists and rose forcefully to express her determination.

"Then, I pray you will allow me to travel with you!" Every JSDF member looked her wide eyes, and Lelei translated her words with the best of her ability.

Itami started to scratch his face nervously. "Are you sure Princess? This is really not necessary…" Lelei translated this also.

Lelei wanted to translate, but Beelzebub raised his hand to stop her. Reached under his armor and pulled out his spare translator medal.

He gave it to Piña. "Translator item. Wear it, and you can perfectly understand them and speak their language."

Piña however nervously. But accepted it. She inspected it for a moment. Then nodded and put it in her neck. Then she felt as the translator enchantment activates and she could perfectly understand every language and speak them.

She cleared her throat then bowed her head. "I am sure Sir Itami. It was my subordinate who made the insult against you and your country. As the Emperor child and the highest ranked Imperial Person in the city, it is my duty to apologize from your country senate personally."

Itami was a little surprised seeing he could completely understand the perfect Japanese of the Princess. But then he thought back about Raidyn and Momon explained to them they wore translator items what made them capable of speaking and understanding every possible language. Seeing Beelzebub gave her the item. He was not surprised after he remembered the thing at all. The medals enchanted by translator enchantment would quite common in their kingdom.

Of course, he wanted one. Who not possibly want one! Imagine it! He could travel anywhere. He never had to learn a new language just equip this item, and he will have more time to his games and light novels. The possibilities are endless.

Itami sighed. Bowed his head in defeat. "Very well. Lieutenant General Hazama wanted to invite higher ranked person in the fort anyway to negotiate with them." He starched the back of his head nervously while smirked.

Prince Beelzebub fondled his freshly shaved chin. He nodded and stepped forward. "In that case. I myself would like to accompany you and your group Sir Itami. As the representative of my father domain. I feel it is my task to build a good relationship with other cultures personally."

Itami sweat dropped and nodded. "As you wish, Prince Beelzebub."

Creon bowed deeply. "I will prepare to honor guard to leave the city, your majesty."

The young heir interrupted him. "No. Creon. You and the honor guard remain here and guard the city until further reinforcements arrive. After all, we took up the task to provide a neutral ground for negotiation in the town of Italica. We can't stain the name of my father leaving our promise behind. Shall we?"

The elf captain bowed his head. "No. Prince Beelzebub."

Beelzebub nodded in response. "Besides that. I will go there as a diplomatic envoy. We can't appear on their doorstep armed to the teeth. My father also granted me this privilege when he named me the leader of the expedition force after all."

"But then. Who will guard you my lord?" inquired Creon

The young heir smiled. His horns what came out from under his shining black hair. Dropped their shadows on his face such way. His gentle smile seemed sinister. "Of course, Momon-dono and Raidyn-dono. My father did not send two legendary adamantine ranked god-kin just to loiter around doing nothing. No, they will be my bodyguards under this journey. Please don't worry about me. You know I am one of the best swords man in the kingdom. After Cocytus and aunt of course." He waved away Creon concerns.

His captain sighed and nodded. "As you wish your majesty."

"God-kin!? Whatever it means. It cannot be good news for the empire! I heard Beelzebub called the two of them God kins when he arrived in the city. But I did not ask him what this means yet. I need to ask him later about it. The time is not appropriate now for such questions." Thought Piña.

Raidyn chuckled wildly. She threw her hands in the air. "Yes! New adventure! And we can sleep again in those comfortable beds! Yeah!" she cheered.

Everyone looked at her with a dumbfounded expression.

Momon just sighed and shook his head disapprovingly.