Chapter 3- Venture To The New World
ONE WEEK AFTER THE GATE DISCOVERY
"Alright! Bugs and birds. First order of business. Tabula has made remarkable progress with the gate ring and made tests with objects and small animals to ensure that they can come back undamaged and unharmed. He's even trained an npc as a designated gatekeeper to open and close the portal." said Ulbert proudly.
" That's… genuinely good news. Thank you, Ulbert". He then spoke gentler. " you didn't have to personally oversee it". Said Infinyrex.
Ulbert snorts. "Yes. I did."
Pero then interrupts. "So what's the verdict, oh radiant demon king? We good to go, or do we need to prepare space suits just in case we end up on the moon."
" Right. The reason I called this meeting is to discuss who we should send on this dangerous mission. What buffs we should give him or her. Weapons and what information they should collect."
" I vote for Nishikenrai! He's a natural explorer and he's efficient. Let's not forget who discovered Nazarick." said the knight.
"Excellent. I was thinking the same. And i think we should send someone with him for extra muscle just in case. Any suggestions?".
"Oh! How about his best bud Take!?"
" Pretty sure those two would just get in an argument before they got anything done".
"Ok then… extra muscle? Hmm. Oh! How about Mekongawa?"
" Hmm. I suppose since he is in the berserker class he would provide the necessary muscle. Though are you sure you want to expend two people from your faction Pero?"
" It's fine. Mekongawa has been aching to get out more. All he does is work out. I get it since I spar for hours on end but I don't get to see him at the bar all that often. All that training can't be good for him."
" Then it's settled. Nish and BK will go. Now let's decide the equipment we'll give them."
" The basics". Pero quickly responded while leaning on his chair.
" Which would be…?"
The meeting went on for a few hours. But they finally settled on an agreement. Now they needed to get things ready.
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The old temple where the ring was discovered was turned into the site where the portal shall be activated. Recently furnished and cleaned by the npc's by order of Tabula.
Inside the temple stood Tabula, Infinyrex, Ulbert and Pero for safety should anything leave the portal once opened.
" Sorry for the wait, mate. Had a bit of a scuffle with Take at the cafe". Said the ninja rabbit Nishikenrai."
" I'm here." said the towering lion man mekongawa or as people called him. BK. For beast king.
" Glad you both could make it. And thank you again for accepting this important task. For this is the first step towards a possible brigh-." Ulbert was interrupted.
" Let's get on with it!". Yelled BK having none of it.
Feeling his grand speech was no longer needed. Ulbert continued. " Ok then. You both have been briefed on the portal. The details of the mission. We have your supplies and weapons. We trust your judgements if you encounter any problems as well as rules of engagements when approaching a sentient being should one be discovered. I feel I don't need to remind you but you have the best weapons and magic items we can offer but should you feel the need to retreat. Do so. We will try our best to use scrying magic once you enter the portal and we must see if messaging skill can be used. That's all. Unless anyone has anything to add?". The two explorers shook their heads 'no' and none of the other council members did either.
" Then Topher, would you do the honors?"
Suddenly one of the npc's. A short gopher looking creature popped up with the gate ring on hand. Began to open the portal.
" We wish you luck my friends and please be safe". Ulbert said caringly.
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Soon the two beings went through the portal. Witnessing the bright light of changing colors, that blinded them for a second until it was replaced by the same fresh breeze from their realm.
The colors were replaced by lush green nature followed by ambient weather. This was a different sight to behold for the two explorers who are used to seeing only the island and the sky. But now there was endless fields of land to roam upon.
" Explorer team! Can you hear my messaging? I repeat. Can you hear my messaging?" Ulbert asked from the other side of the portal.
The duo confirmed his request. And were given their next order. To confirm their surroundings. Which they did and established breathable air and a resourceful ecosystem. This pleased Ulbert.
" Good. on to your next task. Roam around and see if there are any resources we can depend on. Food, water, materials. Anything of the like. But do not engage any locals should you encounter any. This is a reconnaissance mission. Not an invasion".
Both in unison " Order and copy".
Wasting no time. The duo explored the land with a clear mission of collect and leave. The new world's natural beauty was a sight indeed. As it was different from what they were used to. But they had not time to sit and stare. The list of info they had to collect for their friends and family was far too urgent.
They collected information on animals they've encountered that can be used to make a decent meal. Descriptions of different berries they've found. It all almost resembled the tales of their old world before it went to shit.
All things considered. Their mission went by smoothly. However they knew well not to be arrogant as the times when the spawn point was still active and monsters would appear out of nowhere taught them to be mindful of their surroundings and not disturb the serene silence that masked their presence. So they stayed on guard.
Nish was the one collecting the information on the census report. While BK was the one protecting him.
They continued to roam around while spotting several animals big and small. Lakes and rivers. One part of their report was to confirm if magic can be used. This test was made. And it was confirmed.
They went on for hours while making usual communication checks with Ulbert and the others.
The silence was then disturbed by what they can resemble as yelling and minor earth shaking.
The duo went to investigate. Eager for a chance to collect new or rare information.
What they found was a wide deep trench looking construction site. They noticed a few different races working on the project. Dwarves. Lizard people, and other demi human races they can not describe or say they have seen in Yggdrassil. What shocked them most is that they saw a few undead as well. This project was carefully coordinated and adhering to safety precautions.
BK being a former construction worker having worked in terrible conditions confirmed this.
The duo maintained a safe faraway distance in the shadows and monitored the site by binoculars. Contact the others of their findings. And crossed off intelligent life and civilization off their list. The site appeared to be an unfinished road.
Though it was risky. They were instructed to follow that road to see if it leads to any towns or major cities while maintaining a safe distance.
They followed the road by foot for hours. Keeping to the forest to not be seen. They then found a nearby small village that had walls up. They could also see that hoards of goblins were standing in patrol of the walls inside and out. It was a well run ship one could say. Somewhere in the road. There was a sign that read ' Carne village 10 miles away'.
There was another sign at the entrance of the village that was much bigger. It read ' Welcome To Carne Village! The First Vassal Of The Sorcerer King'.
" The hell's a sorcerer king? Ya know any world bosses called that?" asked the rabbit.
" Never heard of it. Sounds like some nerdy crap I'd have punched already". Answered the gruff lion.
They took up higher ground to see behind the gates. Found a peaceful village with stable farming. Flowers on every front door. And children playing.
" Mate. what kind of kumbaya shit are we seein?"
" Report". Asked Ulbert bluntly.
Nish informed him on the discoveries and asks how to proceed further. They were then put on standby until the council members could come up with a verdict.
" Nish. If I recall correctly. You can use an invisibility cloak spell, correct?"
"Yeah". Already knowing where this is going.
" Good. see if you can sneak in through the gate and spy on the villagers there to see if they have any useful information. Maybe we can be diplomatic in the future and discuss deals that may benefit us both. Discuss with BK on contingency plans for him to cause a distraction or break you out of there. I prefer you go in alone as BK's appearance may startle the villagers if he is seen. You also have a doppelganger ring should the need arise that you have to interact with the humans you reported seeing. Any questions or concerns?".
" I don't think so".
Nish ended the call. Discussed what was needed with BK. and used his invisibility spell to infiltrate the village. He first hopped into an incoming wagon. Learned that one needed to have an identification card at the entrance. ' interesting'. Left the wagon and explored the village. It looked like your typical animal crossing village. He noticed that the buildings and streets were very well maintained.' I reckon they have an HOA here'.
Trying his best to avoid people as he cannot be seen but can be touched. Nish entered some houses to see if anybody was discussing anything useful. Even running into some inappropriate moments where he had to flee as embarrassment led him to.
He soon sneaked into a bigger house on "barear street". He could tell this was the home of the people that run this show. With his superior hearing he could tell they were discussing something about " sorcerer kingdom" and "praise to the undead king". He was utterly confused by these statements. ' sorcerer kingdom huh?'.
A loud cheering came from the center of the village. Catching Nish's curiosity. He went to investigate. Found a large group of villagers. Some of different races. The spokesman was talking about this " sorcerer king" and his recent accomplishments and the many to come.
'Sounds like an ay ok guy to me' thought Nish.
The spokesperson then ended his speech with words that shocked Nish down to his core.
" PRAISE AINZ OOAL GOWN!" and the crown repeated this countless times.
Nish was startled beyond words. confused . agitated. Shaking."How's this world know about Ainz Ooal Gown? No one's s'posed ta know that name. How'd it even make its way 'ere?"
Panic filled Nish's mind. "Ave we been compromised? How d'they even know about us?".
Feeling he was confident in his stealth skills thinking maybe he was arrogant and may have accidentally put his family in danger. He needed to flee.
Unfortunately due to his stress. His invisibility spell wore off. But fortunately for him. This village was used to demi humans so he was seen as one and not minded. He put his cloak back on. Exited the village quickly and perhaps recklessly. And headed straight for BK.
" How'd it go? What'd you find?". Was how BK greeted him.
"We gotta go. Gotta move—now. Warn the others. We need ta get back ta NIM." Nish said extatingly.
" That bad? Shiit. I'll call the others to open us a portal".
A portal then opened in front of them. Quickly they both went in wasting no time.
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They were greeted by the same people who saw them off.
" Is everything alright? BK told us over messaging you may have encountered an issue. Were you hurt or seen?". Asked a concerned knight.
"Nah—this's way worse. They know about us. Somehow… they know about us."
The council members were shocked. Asking the duo if they were seen in any way. If the tools and supplies failed them in any way. So many questions were on everyone's mind. Their realm's safety was a top priority.
"They know about Ainz Ooal Gown—our old guild name. We never said it, never even mentioned it once when we came in, eh."
" Ainz ooal gown?! How the hell did that make it's way into their ears?! Their world!".
Nobody knew the answer to Ulbert's question. To calm everyone down. Infinyrex spoke.
" Alright. I think we've had enough adventuring for today. Nish, BK. good work today. We'll be taking your report. Go rest and let's keep this between us for now until we deem it safe to do so." He then looked towards the baphomet and avian. " I hope your evenings are free boys. Because I believe we have a lot to discuss".
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AT THE MEETING ROOM
The three leaders were too unsure of what to say. Different thoughts came to mind. ' How'd they know that name? Are we in danger? Did they anticipate us? Why worship us? We didn't even know they existed until last week so why worship us? Is the new world connected to Yggdrassil somehow?'. They all knew that the answers were in that new world. But were too unsure on how to proceed. 'If they knew about that name. What else do they know?'.
They read from Nish's reports that there was a place called 'The Sorcerer kingdom' and that it was hailed all across the land as a dominant kingdom. And that there was a ' Sorcerer King' whom may or may not be a world boss to Nish's discretion. They knew so little about this other world. ' would it be better to just remain where they are unhidden and away from this world that may or may not know of their existence they asked themselves. They then decided it would be cowardly to hide. The new world might know of their existence but they weren't sure.
If they hid. At some point the new world would find a way to catch them unprepared and they would lose the fight and their realm. The trio decided to infiltrate the new world and learn as much as they could about it. Perhaps they weren't the only players to be transported.
They concluded that Ainz ooal gown had a famous reputation back in Yggdrasil. So it wouldn't be a farfetched theory if a player from the past tossed that name around.
" So it's decided?" Ulbert asked bluntly.
" I mean, if by decided you mean thought about it for like three seconds and then panicked, then yeah. Otherwise, no".
" Let's just get on with a simple infiltration plan to collect more info from this sorcerer kingdom place". Said the knight frustrated with his fellow council members.
" Well… I don't have a clear plan. I must admit. however. I've asked someone to stop by to help us come up with a strategy for intelligence gathering. The best of the best I'm proud to say."
A sudden knock came at the door. The door opened to reveal a short living vine creature.
" Hello".
" Right on time. Punitto moe thank you for coming. we 'd like to get your opinion on something that has baffled us so. Can we pick your brilliant brain for a while?".
The trio then discussed their situation to the supreme being of strategy. Who has honed his skills in the trade for the past few years to the point where he is the person one would go for combat advice. They explained everything from the new world, Nish's report and their old guild name. And want his advice on how to proceed with caution.
" Okay so from what I gather. They know about Ainz ooal gown but not us specifically. So there's a chance we still have anonymity. If we are to return out there we must maintain that same anonymity along with the element of surprise should we be discovered. For now. I see no reason we aren't safe. Still for precautions sake. We need to find out how they know that name and see if it can work in our favor. Them knowing that name can either be a good thing or a bad thing. We haven't confirmed which yet. But from what this report says. The villagers were holding it in high regard?". They confirmed while looking at each other.
" Either way we can't jump to conclusions with so little information. I suggest that we send a spy to this sorcerer kingdom to gather information to get some closure." finished Punitto.
" We were thinking the same. So who do you think we should send?".
" Well… I suggest Nish since he is the spy type being a ninja and all and has more stealth skills. I plan for him to infiltrate and confirm if it's safe enough. We can establish a base of operations there. Learn their ways. And then we trade places so we all know what we're dealing with. Better to fight an enemy we know and lived with than an unknown enemy for if the time comes".
"Very well. Should we send someone to assist him?".
" As much as I value safety. Nish works better when he's alone." responded Punitto.
" Let's just hope he's up for it".
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AT HEROHERO'S CANTINA IN ONE OF THE ISLANDS
"So?! Ah hee-ar zey are send-eeng you out again, da? Solo meesh-un, old pal, hm?"
"Yeah, gotta go spy on a whole nation. Bit excitin', eh? Not gonna lie, I'm a tad nervous. But it's all for NIM, yeah? If I gotta put meself on the line so you lot stay safe… worth it."
"Vell… joost do not do any-theeng stoopid, ya hee-ar?"
"How could I, when you're keepin' all the stupid to yourself mate, haha."
With that. The rabbit ninja and the nephilim parted ways.
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IN THE FOREST OF TOB
Nishikenrai was dropped off somewhere in the forest of tob. Just close enough to the village. He used a doppelganger ring to disguise himself as a human. As a human he was trusted easily. He took on the role of a hitch hiker. Managed to get a wagon ride easily by a merchant who was on his way to the sorcerer kingdom.
The merchant spoke first. " say stranger, I ain't never heard of an accent like yours before. You from baharuth?".
"Nah, I'm a lil' ways further on. What's a Baharuth?"
The merchant went on to explain different regions of the continent and its kingdoms. Making Nish's job easier. He also explained that the world was taken over by an undead king 230 years ago.
"Guy goes by the name of Ainz Ooal Gown."
"You talk about this Ainz Ooal Gown like he's a bloke. You sure it ain't a guild or somethin'?"
" No. He's a powerful undead god. Here's a piece of advice since you're new here. Best be careful how you speak of him in any kingdom. He's a merciful figure, yes. But he's also a fearsome foe. Best to not inquire of his ire traveller".
Nish kept that as a mental note. 'Someone nicked our guild name an' made it theirs, eh? Not a bad move, all things considered. If I was runnin' the guild, I'd'a used the name Seraphim to give the other players a proper fright.' they continued on the road until they stopped at what looked like a long line of carriages forming a traffic line to the sorcerer kingdom.
"No matter where I end up, mate… traffic's always on your tail, makin' ya late for work every time." Nish said out loud. Clearly annoyed and with a long sigh. With the merchant agreeing with him.
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" Pfft. Someone out there is using our old guild name and passing off as a god? Wow that's rich Ulbert." said the highest angel Lucifer.
Ulbert had just finished giving Lucifer a rundown on the new discovery and the results. Ulbert is hoping that since Lucifer is one of the few that invested a lot of points into intelligence . same as him. He could offer more opinions as well.
" So. What would you do if you discovered a world all by yourself with the power you have?".
" Hmm… probably take over this world". Lucifer answered. " But since I came here with you guys, I don't feel the need to. It's almost pointless really."
" Hmm. My thoughts exactly. At the moment we are not interested in making alliances or enemies. We'd really just like to go in and out to collect resources we don't have in NIM. and Nish is out making sure it's safe to do so."
" But you're still concerned about them finding out about us even though we can just throw away the key and pretend like nothing ever happened."
" Yes. So I'd like to discuss some contingencies with you."
" I've already got the contingencies thought out! If Nish discovers the magic tier levels in this new world. I can just summon a bunch of angels and. Wait for it… a seraphim. They'll be no enemies left after that. But if anything, Just use " great catastrophe" you know you want to."
Both looked at each other slyly as if fantasizing a ruined future.
" Perfect! Then we need not discuss much but let's get together with Punitto just to see if he approves". Ulbert said excitedly.
" understood bossman". Lucifer said, saluting like a soldier. " Oh! One more thing, Ulbert. If we confirm it's safe to do so. Any chance I could go to the other world?".
" What for?" ulbert asked curiously.
" I'd like to gather materials to pursue a passion project of mine. Something I can't do here in NIM due to… what was it you said? Lack of resources? I assure you it's for the safety of NIM".
" Don't leave me in suspense, old chum. Tell me".
" Do you remember that unfinished project I had going on back in Nazarick before I left?".
" Say no more." Ulbert said. Already knowing what he was talking about. " I'll let you know when it's safe to do so". Giving him a smile.
" Perfect."
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NEARING THE LINE TO THE SORCERER KINGDOM
"Argh, finally! We're gettin' close ta the gate — can see the bloody light at the end o' the tunnel." Said an exhausted Nish.
Just before he thought about celebrating. He saw two statues at the front entrance. They were of a skeleton draped in robes. He was stuck trying to search through his memory. "Where've I seen that skeleton before, eh?".
Nish and the merchant soon reach customs and were greeted by a naga who explained the rules.
"No eatin' humans, no free use o' weapons unless it's self-defence, an' no committin' crimes? Sounds reasonable enough, eh." Even Nish had to admit that these were rules he'd follow. So far the outside world left a good first impression on him.
After entering the city. Nish saw what a vibrant and peaceful city this was. With humans and demi humans coexisting. He thought about why he joined Ainz opal gown in the past and it was for this exact reason. Where heteromorphic players didn't need to be hunted.
There were trading jobs, Construction and friendly relationships among them. He couldn't believe what he was seeing.
" Well…this is where I leave you traveler. I gots work to do and all" the merchant told him.
"'Course! I best be off as well — cheers for the ride! Hope ta see ya again someday."
The two parted ways. Nish proceeded to explore the lively city per his duties to collect information while incognito. He walked around for many hours. Sight seeing all the shops. Monuments. Resources the markets provided.
He then found a library. Which was perfect for his mission. The history of this world would prove invaluable info for his friends back home he thought. Once inside. He met with the librarian.
"Oi mate, ya got any history books?"
"Of course. To your left. 5 aisles down."said the elderly librarian.
Nish looked around. Studied old documents. Used a spell Ulbert taught him for speed reading and memory retention. Learned that this kingdom is 230 years old.
Learned that there used to be many independent kingdoms like the baharuth empire, Roble holy kingdom, argland council state, slane theocracy, city state alliance, and re estize. With the last 4 being decimated for making enemies with the king of this country.
"Crikey! This lad's powerful — best keep note o' this Sorcerer King."
While reading. He learned a of a great hero by the name of Momon. Who stood up for the people of this e rantel before it became the sorcerer kingdom. The nobles who ran e rantel abandoned their people to die after the war in katze plains. Momon volunteered to be the peoples shield as well as delegate.
"Wow! What a great bloke! I'd bet me fur that Infinyrex an' Take'd love ta meet 'im. This Momon's truly somethin'."
Quickly. Nish forgot about his info collection and just focused on the history and accomplishments of Momon like a kid reading a comic book.
Every story, every adventure. Nish wanted to collect enough just so he can come back to Vortex and Alpha with stories to tell.
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Time went by quickly. It was already night time. Luckily the library would stay open 24/7 and he was equipped with a regeneration ring so he didn't need sleep and could continue with his recon mission.
There was a geological book that had all the kingdoms locations. There were others he learned about. Dwarf kingdom. Frost dragon kingdom and Beastman country. All fallen under the dominion of the sorcerer king.
"Yikes… that don't paint us in a real good light, does it?."
Nish then read about the religion, culture, and politics of the region. Was unsurprised at this point that it was all tied to the sorcerer king.
"Bloke came outta nowhere, bloody near smashed everythin' and conquered the lot. Atleast he tried ta make up for it with festivals an' reform systems, eh?."
After hours of taking notes and learning nearly everything there was about what was going on in this new world. it was already 4am. He left the library. Proceeded to walk around to memorize the streets. He then started to think about everything he had learned. One of them being that ainz ooal gown was a person here. An undead who has the power over life and death.
"How're we meant ta deal with that…? Might be best we just stick ta our own neck o' the woods."
After passing by a few turns he also noticed the kingdoms banner looked awfully like his old guilds back in ygggdrassil.
"Alright, I know it's been a few years an' me memory's a bit hazy, but I remember our old guild banner. What the hell's goin' on? This fucker's really done his home work on us."
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THE NEXT DAY
Nish collected so much information in just one day and one night. He was most eager to pass by Momon's residence which is now being occupied by one of his descendants.
He was most shook by the undead that were patrolling the streets. People started to walk in the day once the sun rose.
He continued to inspect the cityscape, until. People started to gather and run towards the same place.
"Oi mate, what's goin' on? Where's everyone leggin' it to?". Nish asked a person.
" Haven't you heard?! The sorcerer king Ainz Ooal Gown will be making an appearance at the fountain!".
'Perfect! This's me chance ta see what the leader o'this world's really like. Ulbert's gonna love this'. Nish followed the crowd hurriedly. Not wanting to miss this chance.
He got to the center of the city where the ceremony was being held and the sorcerer king was giving a speech. Nish wanted to get closer to see the person in question. But the crowd of people was suffocating to say the least.
As he pushed the people in his way. He was at a distance away from the sorcerer king only to freeze in disbelief. Eyes wide open and mouth agape.
'No…no… it's can't be…it can't be him…but…but you… I saw ya… is it really you, mate?!'
Nish couldn't believe his eyes so he rubbed them to double check. And sure enough the figure was still standing there. Then, with a whisper of sadness in his voice. One of melancholy, pity, and relief. He said.
"Momonga?…"