Written by oblivon2991

Proofread by the Members of The Usual Gang of Drunken Perverted Idiots

Thank you for reading my fanfic and for giving me a chance.

My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.

I would like to thank the excellent job that the Skythewood translator team has done with the light novel translation.

Without their hard and persistent work, I surely couldn't write this story.

Please review it. I know I will make mistakes, and I intend to correct them, as well as try to learn from them and improve myself.

Thank you!

Now let's continue our little story!

Chapter 37: The Magical City of Arwintar (part 2)

"What?" walking on the main road of the capital, Raidyn felt the intense glare of two people on her back.

"Was that really necessary, Lady Raidyn?"

"What? What did I do now?" she honestly doesn't understand.

"The way you spoke with Fluder-dono…" Valynn bit his lip, trying to hold himself from swearing. "Honestly, disgraceful." be she royalty or not, he had to say this. It was a reckless thing from her speaking with Fluder like that.

"Oi! Oi! How would you react if someone stared at you with those creepy eyes? It is like he stared into my soul! The last time that happened, a soul eater charged against me!"

"A-A Soul Eater!?" many gasped, remembering the tale when two soul eaters left a demi-human town devoid of all life. Ever since that area was devoid of any life, only undead lives there.

"St-Still… With all due respect, Lady Raidyn, Fluder Paradyne, is an immensely powerful magic caster! Calling out his wrath like this? Foolish at best. Catastrophic at worst! Even if you faced beings like Soul Eaters before, it is ill-advised! I request you never do such a reckless thing again."

"Oh! The great Paladin Captain is scared? Never thought I'd live long enough to see this."

"This is not funny!" Iliyra shouted in rage, glaring at Methild, who just laughed. "Fluder Paradyne is able to destroy thousands of people alone. If he turns against us…" even the thought froze her to her core. She heard how that man equaled a whole army. Only fools would try to challenge his wrath.

"She is right; it was foolish. Even with a master around…" Valynn bit his lip, lowering his head. He doesn't want to think about what would have happened to actually face Fluder Paradyne… Even the thought made his bones tremble.

"Don't worry about him; Fluder-san was never a person who really takes offense about such a minor blunder. As an old friend of his, I know him as such a person. Albeit, I was surprised…"

"How so?" Raidyn raised her brow under her mask, looking towards the elder elf.

"It is not every day he offers the chance to someone to become his apprentice, at least, not after just one meeting. He must have really seen something in you, Elysia-dono."

"We-Well… I do my best, I guess." Elysia mumbled slightly, blushing, remembering the thing Fluder said to her before they parted ways.

"Hmm, so what now? Shall we proceed, or…?"

"Unfortunately, no, we can't go until we finish the positioning ritual with Fluder-san. The ritual itself only takes a few hours, the preparations, and the material requirements, however…"

"Longer… I guess."

"Yes, it will take several days, maybe even a week until we manage to collect the rare materials, and prepare the ritual itself."

"I see… this is concerning considering this is a hostage situation we want to solve. Every minute wasted is too much in this situation."

"Haah! I know. Unfortunately, it cannot be helped. We spent considerable time discussing this topic with Fluder-san. And we came to a conclusion there is not a more foolproof solution to find where the young master is held captive than the one we came up with. Every other method used, and there is a high chance the captor recognizes our attempt or the coordinates go wrong."

"I see, it cannot be helped then." Vaydark was right. If the captor recognizes their attempt to locate them, they will kill the captive most likely right away — worst, set up a trap for the rescue team — on the other hand, if the location goes wrong, they journeyed long for nothing, they will never find the captive.

Their only chance is to get things right at first, find him, and save his life as subtly as possible, possibly without notice.

"Exactly…" hummed the elder. "We will prepare the ritual in the next few days with Fluder-san. Until then, I will most likely not be available. Nonetheless, you can explore the city as you wish. I already sent a messenger forth to the local embassy of our kingdom. Your diplomatic permit to move around in the city and the country is most likely already prepared. I only ask that you not cause any trouble while I am away."

"We'll do our best."

"Thank you."

Soon, they arrived at the Elf Kingdom's local embassy — positioned in the main square, not far from the palace.

Even despite the strained relationship between the Empire and the elves, they do not cut all ties but upkeep the diplomatic contact through their embassy.

This, of course, earned the displeasure of the nearby Slane Theocracy, but nothing was perfect, their ambassadors tolerated each other, referring to their diplomatic status.

And thus, after settling in their accommodation, they spent the rest of the day resting and recuperating. Vaydark prepares for the oncoming days he will spend with Fluder, working on the ritual.

Deep inside, he really awaited working with him once again.

"Like back then, eh?" he chuckled in his room.

Scene Change: Arwintar: A day later:

"I am bored…"

"Well, do something then…" Raidyn placed another paper to the stack nearby, signing it with a pen. "Didn't I lend you a few books? Read, now you even have the time."

"What are you reading?"

"The reports Albedo and the rest of the crew sent through…"

"All that big stack?! Wait! Wasn't that stack smaller last night!? Don't you say they wrote a report that long."

"Well, thanks to this mission, I am behind schedule, I need to skim through these reports at least once. I can't let Momonga do all the work. Even if he is an undead, that would be too cruel."

"Momonga?" she blinked; she never heard about such a person. "Who's that?" albeit, the name was slightly familiar. "Momon… Momonga…" She started to connect things.

"Oh, you didn't know?" for Raidyn's blinking response, the girl just shook her head, clueless.

"No? Who's that guy?"

"Haah! In short, Ainz-kun's character is called that way in the game; he just started to call himself Ainz Ooal Gown here, to spread the name of our guild so that we can find our past comrades easier."

"I see…" Elysia nodded, understanding. Until now, she had no idea that was the case. "But wait a minute! Isn't he just using that Momon persona whenever he is out? How will this help him then? Wait! Don't others know him? They can't connect his name? I don't know. Other players?"

"Hmm, now as you mention it. I don't really know. And maybe you are right; they might. He always had a crappy naming sense. Remember how he named that poor hamster…?"

"Oh! Right… poor Hamsuke-chan." Even though that creature wanted to eat her, she pitied the poor creature for receiving such a name.

"Maybe he planned something in the near future with that name, maybe appearing in the open after doing something heroic? I remember he mentioned when he first arrived, he saved a village from attackers, introducing himself as Ainz Ooal Gown, then he went with the flow. I am not sure what he planned with all of this."

"Wow! He saved a village?"

"Umu… then he introduced himself that way. As I heard, they even made a small statue of him since then."

"Wow!" Elysia gasped. Maybe this Ainz guy was not such a bad guy. On the other hand, she as well wanted a statue. Even if not big, but small.

"So…"

"So?" Esdeath picked up another paper from the stack, starting to read the report.

"Want to go explore the city? I am bored here…"

"I said, I need to skim through these reports. I have no time."

"But… I don't want to go alone! Please! I will leave you alone tomorrow! Anyway… you did it all night. Not sleeping a minute, just reading those papers and signing them! Then giving them to those goblin whatevers — that came and went through those portals. Don't try to deny it, I saw you!"

It was slightly odd though, Elysia didn't hear anything while Raidyn's mouth moved that night, neither the rustle of the papers. It was like a sound dampening field would be around her all the time, making even her increased hearing unable to pick up anything.

Nonetheless, she pretended to sleep for long, not wanting to disturb the busy looking player.

"You didn't sleep?"

"Well, one can hardly sleep while those goblins loiter around…" Elysia was not so amused; she barely slept with those things around — still, she was not tired thanks to the ring Raidyn lent her. Even so, she was angry at her, not spending the night as intended, but overworking herself like usual.

"Well, I put up a barrier that filters out sound and vibration, so you should have simply turned away and slept. I told you, I am busy with all the things going around. I have not one free minute! And those are not goblins but imps. Remember that! They are two different things. Meanwhile, one…"

"Whatever…" Elysia shrugged, displeased. "That's exactly why you need a day out! Come on! Just one day!" she was insistent, that's for sure, even Esdeath can only sigh.

"Huh?" looking up, Elysia started to do her puppy eyes technique.

"Why do I feel this will not end well?"

"Is there anyone else to bother with this? What about Brain-kun, and the other elves? I am really busy now!"

"Ummm…" Elysia started to think. "Brain said he visits a few friends in the city. He will be back soon. As for the rest of the elves? That paladin captain is not really up to it; she said she wants to continue to educate her squire while they have free time. Herra-chan said her religion doesn't allow her to go out like this. Also…"

"What about those other three guys? Melandrach, Valynn, and Nevarth? Aren't they enough for this city exploration stuff?"

"That Nevarth guy tried to hit on me. No way would I want to remain alone with him. He is a creep!"

"And the other two?"

"No clue where that Melandrach guy is. He just disappeared when the morning came. Valynn left for that magical institute with his master early in the morning. So, most likely, he will not be available for a few days."

"So… Am I the last one you can ask? Is There really no one else?"

"You know…" Elysia started to play with her fingers. "I thought we could go out together. You know, like a girl's day out, like last time. We adventure together for more than a month, yet, I barely know you, and I want that to change. Since meeting that friend of yours, you are either away in that tomb, or too busy to really speak. Always working."

"Look, I didn't mean…"

"Please, it is my treat. I recognized how much certain things hurt you — You know, during our mental chats. I want to know you better. I also want to apologize for whatever wrong things I said during our journey here, and the passing month—always criticizing you. It was really insensitive of me." the girl kneeled, lowering her forehead to the ground, prostrating herself basically.

"Why did you bring that up now? Aren't you…?"

"Please. I spoke with Ainz-san through a message, asking him a few things."

"S-She spoke with him!?" Esdeath really hoped her secret of being a guy previously didn't come to light. It was embarrassing enough to think about it. But what things did she ask? She started to get more and more curious — also, afraid of her past coming to light.

"Also… if things come to light, she will most likely shout at me for seeing her naked. Or about the fact… I didn't even warn her before seeing her like that!"

"You always work and seem tired. You deserve a day out. We deserve it. Ainz-san also agrees with me."

"I-I see…" Raidyn gulped; she didn't really consider how Elysia felt. Also, why didn't his friend notify her about this?

"Just what is he planning?"

"Tch! Fine! But just one day! After that, I need to finish these reports." she waved the sturdy stack of papers in her hand.

"Thank you!" Elysia's smile turned bright right away, raising her head suddenly. "Everything is my treat! You will see! You will feel refreshed after the day ends!"

"Su-Sure…" Esdeath felt this couldn't end well. Oh! She had no idea what she signed up for.

"So, what do you want to do first?"

…

Albeit, she asked what she wanted to do. Elysia still dragged Raidyn around without really asking where to go.

"But I suppose, that's how girls work…" Raidyn can't help but groan deep inside. She was drained after just a few hours.

"Oh! That clothing shop looks good!"

"Look! An accessory shop!"

"I am dying… someone save me!"

Raidyn was honestly exhausted. A few hours passed, and Elysia dragged her around to different clothing shops, then to buy some makeup. Then other girly stuff, even to visit another public bath!

She… she doesn't know how long she could bear this! As a shut-in Otaku who hardly made connections with people previously — and preferred to be alone in her room with her stuff — it was nightmarish for her to be so open and dragged around to visit those shops.

More so considering the embarrassing situation. Even after months of being in this world, she just can't get used to it.

"Please… someone kill me."

It was contradictory, but that's how she felt.

"By the way…"

"Hmm?"

"Why did you wear that scarf around your head? You look like… well, a terrorist."

"Hmm, you remember what Vaydark-dono said about my eyes, yes?"

"Yes? And?"

"We don't want to cause a diplomatic ruckus. And you were adamant about coming with simple clothes, and with no armor. Thus, I hid my eyes like this." although her long ears still peeked out from the scarf, with the diplomatic permit, the guards should let them go.

Also, to not cause any commotion in the city, they hid their adamantite plate under their clothes. No way they wanted to be harassed by other people because of it — it happened enough times back in the kingdom to know too well what to do if they wanted to be left alone.

"Yeah… with a scarf…" Elysia muttered with a flat expression, still watching the scarf that even hid her friend's eyes — Not to mention, it made her friend look like a suspicious person who hid a bomb on her body.

"I mean, my eyes are also like that. You know, double colored. Isn't that going to cause a ruckus?"

"Hmm, don't think so. You are… well, not an elf. Remember what Vaydark-dono had said."

"The descendants of the Elf King usually have heterochromatic eyes…" muttered Elysia, remembering the words of the elder.

"Yup. This was easier than changing eye color."

"I see…" whatever the real reason was, she would rather not ask further. She suspected, Raidyn just comes up with another twisted explanation — she didn't need that just now.

"So, where next? According to this city map, several more stores may interest us." recovering the city map they received in the embassy's reception, Elysia skimmed it.

"Maybe visit this other accessory shop? Oh! A lingerie shop?"

"Guh!" Raidyn was visibly depressed; she had enough of this! She never wants to see another clothing shop again!

"What? What's that sour sound? If you want to say something, just say it. This is a girl's day out! Come on, just say it."

"Nothing…" in truth, she would rather go back and continue to work. It would be a lot more relaxing than shopping.

"But she seems happy. Who am I to ruin her mood…?" Every time she wanted to give up, she told herself this mental mantra, pushing forth.

"What is it? It is your day, come, tell me…"

"Well…" Raidyn started to play with her finger. "I am not really…"

"Get out of my way!"

"Guh!"

They were cut short by a rude man pushing away Elysia — trying to do so with Raidyn, but she didn't budge.

"Filthy outsiders standing in the way…" he muttered as three elves in rags followed him. On his face, a disgusted expression, proceeding forth without even apologizing.

"Hey?!"

"What?" the man glanced back, smug, almost disgusted.

"Just what do you think you are doing? Pushing others to the side just like that?"

"Tch! And what do you care?" he turned back, a smile forming on his face as he finally recognized who called after him. "Oh! I see! Well, well, well… what is this? A mutant demi-human? A human with animal features? What kind of disgusting creature are you? Huh?"

The man looked well-kept and hygienic, with his blonde hair and sharp eyes, almost like he looked down on those he thought inferior.

His attire akin to a Samurai — but with more emphasis on speed over the defense — he indeed sticks out from the crowd. Almost like an adventurer, yet, he wore no plate around his neck.

"Who do you call an animal? I will skewer you!"

"And why shouldn't I call you that? Look at you? Wonder if it was your mother who whored herself to a demi-human, or even a wolf? Or was it your father that pervert that he fucked an animal? Disgusting being!"

"Yo-YOU!? I will…"

"What will you do? You, an animal? Attack me? Come on!" the man placed his hand on his nagamaki, ready to pull it out. "Give me a reason to slice you up. I am sure even the people around will praise me for getting rid of you."

He was somewhat right. Ever since walking outside — Elysia's face showing — the people they passed showed a distressed expression whenever they passed them, many whisperings behind their back in fright or confusion, even the guards gave them a look as they passed them.

They do not know who she is — also, demi-humans were considered feral creatures here.

Not to mention after Raidyn advised it, they pocketed their adamantite tags to not call too much attention — because of this, the concern of people was well founded.

"Yeah… an elf who wears a scarf around her head like a terrorist and a demi-human who looks like a human. Very calming indeed." albeit, she suspected, this man just wants trouble. No good will come if they linger here longer or even clash with him. "The best option is to ignore him altogether, and move on." it is just not worth the trouble.

"Elysia…"

"What!?"

"It is not worth it, come, let's visit that shop you spoke about."

"And what is this? Another beast? Hiding behind that fugly mask is worthless. I see your ears, elf!"

"Tsk! Come, Elysia, let's not waste more time with this idiot." Raidyn wanted to ignore them, as she had no mood for idiots, but this man had to push his luck.

"What? Running away? Just as expected, a coward like the rest of your kind."

"Whatever you say, I don't care…" she glanced back. "I don't even know you. I don't care what you think of me. You're wasting your breath by throwing insults I don't even care about."

"Tch! You little!" Yet, a malicious idea came into the man's mind and rage started to fill his vision. "Hmph! No matter. Slave! Come here!"

"Ye-Yes…" the three elven women followed him lined up before him, seemingly shriveling in fear. "I am dissatisfied with your fellow race. You will be punished for this!"

'Slap! Slap! Slap!'

"Oi! What are you doing?"

"Haah! This can't end well…" Raidyn can't help but sigh, seeing Elysia jumping into action.

It was expected, the man's intention was to incite an attack, so he can use self-defense. In that case, they will be the offenders, the guards coming to his aid without question.

"What it looks like, beast! I am punishing my property."

"They are living beings; they are not your…"

"Elysia-chan, remember, in this country, slavery is not prohibited. Just leave them, and proceed. It is not our business."

"Just as she says, mongrel! It is not your business. So, what will you do?" 'Slap!' "Chicken away, or try to take them?" 'Slap!'

"Eii!" The elf slave muffled her own cry of pain, but from their eyes, tears poured intensely. From the strength of the slap, their face was already red and swollen.

"Tch!" Elysia turned away her head, balling her fist in rage. "Let's go…"

"Just as expected, beast. You are but a little chicken. Albeit, I am somewhat disappointed. You have the appearance of a beast, but don't dare to act. How pitiful." the man chuckled, seemingly enjoying his mocking game.

For now, several people already gathered around the little group, the guards nearby keeping an eye out.

"So, what do you do, beast? Dare to defy my authority, saving these worthless craps? Or would you rather run away? Decide, or I will kill them!"

"I will challenge you to a duel! That's what I will do!" she had enough! She can't let this continue anymore!

"A duel?" Everyone glanced either of the two sides, awaiting the answer from the well-equipped man.

"Yes! A duel! If I defeat you, you release those slaves and apologize!"

"And if I win? You nameless cur? What will you give me then?"

Elysia looked away, considering her options.

"I see… nothing to offer. I should have suspected. I should cut you down here and now, offending me, a noble of the Baharuth Empire!" pulling out his nagamaki, the man was ready to fight, offering a disgusted expression. "You know what? I will take you as a slave. You will be a nice addition to my ever-growing collection! Of course, if you survive, cur! I will make sure to break you properly!"

"Grr…" Elysia started to growl, pulling out her dagger.

"Haah! This can't end well…" Raidyn already felt, in the end, she will be the one who needs to save her.

"Very well… prepare yourself, beast."

The man's posture resembled Brain's own. Even looking at it, it was evident he was another level if it came to skill.

"There are guards here; it would be unfavorable to us if you battle here and now…" she whispered to Elysia, who started to consider Raidyn's words.

"But…"

"We don't want to trouble our employer, do we? He is not worth it."

"But the slaves…? What if he?"

"They are his property. It is not likely he damages the wares he paid for, no?"

"Still…"

"Elysia, please."

"Fine…!" Elysia considered things sheathed her dagger, still angry, but seeing what Raidyn referred to.

A few guards already stood nearby, ready to jump in if something happened. This man only wanted to incite them, to attack first, then take them to custody then.

Unlike the kingdom's own guard units, the ones in Arwintar really cared about public safety; they would surely swarm this place in no time if there would be some prattle in the middle of the main road.

Worse! According to this man, he was noble in this country. Now then, who would you trust? A random adventurer — be it adamantite or not — or your own noble?

The answer was obvious.

"I will back now…" she sheathed her dagger, turning around and started to walk away with Raidyn.

"What? Scared?"

"Piss off!" Elysia showed her middle finger up.

"Ho-How dare you!? You will die for this!" and thus, the man charged, infuriated how someone dared to ignore and humiliate him so much. More so, showing him such a vulgar thing!

"DIE!" his nagamaki was out in under a moment, his speed many can't even follow with their eyes, his body flowing like water. He was a high ranked swordsman; it was evident even looking at him.

'Clang!' Yet, before his blade could meet Elysia's neck, Raidyn's ninjatō was out, blocking the strike with elegance.

"Wha-what!?" when she heard the noise, the girl right away turned, seeing the blade that stopped by another one barely a few centimeters away from her neck.

"You are brave, daring to hit a defenseless woman." Raidyn pushed him back, pointing her weapon against his face. "I wonder how you would fare against people who can defend themselves."

"Hooo! The ugly elf who doesn't even dare to show her face came to the defense of her beast?" a mocking smile curled on his face. "Fufufufufu… How intriguing!" the unknown swordsman raised his blade once more, this time grabbed with both hands. "I will make sure to break you properly, slave! Things like you should know their place!"

"Your anger amuses me. Young one. Do you believe you are my match? Hahahahaha!" she made a motion like she caressed her long beard. Oh! So much she missed having a beard, just for a situation like this!

"You dare to mock me!? A simple elf who doesn't even dare to show her face!?"

"Let's see how good you really are. Or you say, you can only get women by buying them?" a few chuckles heard from around the crowd, infuriating even more the attacker.

"Yo-You! You little shit! I will break you!"

"You know what? If you just land just a single blow, I will bow down and call you master." Raidyn sheathed her blade, placing one of her arms behind her back, with the other, making an inviting motion. "Let's begin…"

"Haah!" Like a wild boar, the man charged. Yet, his movement was not of a wild animal. No! Far from that, even despite his rage-filled vision, it was clearly visible he had a technique and footwork to complement his hasty attack.

'Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash!'

"Hmm, not bad, almost like Brain-kun…"

Raidyn started to dodge, doing only that much movement as it was necessary to avoid the blade. Sometimes only a hair's breadth away from the edge as she leaned away.

"Stop dodging, dammit!" his body glowed up twice, signing the activation of Martial Arts. Immediately, his speed and the strength between his strikes increased.

His skills were first grade, his strength was above normal, speed without par — of course, all of this in New World standard — yet, compared to Raidyn, he was akin to an ant. Slower than a snail stuck in a time dilation field.

'Tap! Tap!' getting behind him with a quick maneuver, she tapped his shoulder, making him slash wildly behind — what, of course, she dodged elegantly.

"Ugh!" Raidyn simply sidestepped, flinching him "gently" on the forehead. The swordsman instinctively jumped back, still, that simple flinch felt like a hammer hit his head, blood started to sprout from the place.

"Damn you!" touching it; the swordsman immediately saw his own blood — infuriated even more.

"Hahahahahaha! Your swordsmanship amateur at best. Your technique, sluggish. Your attempt, laughable." once more, she caressed her nonexistent beard.

"You goddamn elf! [Greater Vertical Swoop]!" 'Clang!' the sword made a wide arc vertically, shattering the slabs on the main street, leaving a smaller crater.

"What!?" Yet, what came to his view was not his enemy sliced in two, but the same elf expected to be dead standing on his sword, balancing on the dull edge of his blade, with her weight, keeping him from raising it.

"Why can't I…!?"

"From this view, you can easily see my feet!" with a quick flip, she kicked the swordsman on his chin, making him fly and flip in the air a few times before landing before the legs of his slaves.

"Ugh!"

"I asked you to demonstrate — what you know — and you did…" once more, Raidyn caressed her nonexistent beard — she can't help it, she just enjoyed the move the old man did in that magical institute.

"Damn you…" the assaulter can only mutter, feeling like a beaten dog after receiving that strong kick into his jaw. Honestly, he can barely speak, it was like he felt something cracking in his jaw when the kick connected — even spitting a few of his teeth.

"Heal me dammit!" ordering his slaves, they shuddered for a moment, fearing what the man will do with them if they refuse to comply.

"[M-Middle Cure Wounds]!" the elf with the blue hair muttered scared, and her master's body glowed up green, feeling rejuvenated right away — his missing teeth grew back immediately.

"That's not enough! Cast enhancement magic on me!" but before they could comply, they were cut by the guard force arriving, cordoning the area from the onlookers.

"What is this ruckus!?"

"This damn demi-human and elf assaulted me! Take them to prison!" right away, the man pointed at his "assaulter," still struggling to get up.

"Oh! Is that so?" Raidyn tilted her head. "I think the surrounding people will defy your statement. But never mind me, young one."

"Whatever is the case, the law prohibits any fight in Arwintar!" the present guard captain stepped forth. "Stop this, or you will be arrested!"

"The battle was over anyway." Raidyn shrugged, starting to walk away. "Come, we have nothing to do with this scene anymore."

"Huh?" and Elysia can only blink, running after the player. "Wa-Wait for me!"

"Hooh! Interesting!" a figure watched them on one of the roofs smiled, hidden by invisibility magic, sketching and scribing something in his notebook. "This definitely makes of a good tale. My lord will be satisfied."

…

"What was that?"

"What?"

"That thing! I can protect myself! You don't have to always protect me!" Elysia was angry. If Raidyn always protects her, how should she grow?

"The appropriate words would be "Thank you!" and maybe you could have defeated him — with proper gear. Still, at that moment, your head would have chopped off if I didn't do anything. I doubt you can live without your head…"

"Well, thanks, I guess. Still, you didn't need to go that far! I can take care of myself. Who was that guy anyway? It was like he intentionally wants to pick a fight with us."

"Erya Uzruth…" a familiar voice came from behind them, making the two stop and turn their heads.

"Huh?"

"Oh! Brain-kun. Yo! I thought you were visiting a friend."

"Did so, finished with that business earlier, and witnessed your little performance while coming back, Lady Raidyn. I must admit it was impressive." Brain chuckled, ever so lightly.

"So, you followed us…?"

"As I said, I just noticed the small prattle on the main street, and decided to inspect what's happening. That's all… spying on others, not my style."

"I see…"

"By the way, it was an impressive fight, Lady Raidyn — To defeat someone like him without any weapons? Impressive indeed. Few would be capable of that. Say, you are using a sword most of the time, yet, you move like a monk. Are you trained in both arts?"

"It was nothing much, Brain-kun. I just used his weakness against him." she was not a monk though, her agility was just way over the guy's capability to suppress and counter her — or make her use weapons at all.

"Even Momonga could play around with him… and he is a pure magic caster." that much a level 100 character stats worth in this world. A level 100 magic caster was even above a pure warrior like Gazef Stronoff or Brain Unglaus strength and agility wise.

One can hardly imagine how a pure physical fighter player would compare to anyone else here.

"Weakness, what weakness?" Brain blinked, for a moment, confused about what she meant.

"He relied too much on his sword. It was easy to predict his moves and counter them. Please forgive me for saying this, but relying on one thing is never a wise choice. Only a fool stands only one leg, after all."

"I see…" Brain hummed, understanding what she meant. "But it is also taking away the chance to master that leg truly. It is not?"

"Not essentially." they continued their path, walking forth.

"What do you mean?"

"Battle is a fluid thing, Brain-kun. Being a master of one thing is good, knowing multiple options also good. But combining them and creating something new, something unexpected... Well, that's better! It can gain you the edge, changing your style in fluid and unexpected ways under battle. It can easily upset the balance of the enemy, gaining you the upper hand. Don't think every enemy will be a buffoon and repeat the same attack, the same tactic. They eventually acclimatize to your way of fighting, trying to counter it, outsmart you, finding holes in your technique. And when that happens, your chance of survival dramatically drops."

"At least, most high skill cap players were like that — continuously evolving their style, not one encounter the same…" she remembered to Touch Me, he as well continuously improved his moves, not one duel the same with him.

Even more so, some enemy Ai was really challenging to defeat — some bosses even learned the players tactics after just defeating them a few times, making the previously working tactic unusable under the next fight.

"Hmm, I see the merit in this. Thank you for your advice and instruction." That day, Brain learned, maybe in his infatuation with the way of the sword, he blocked his own path for true growth.

Maybe, that's why Gazef managed to defeat him back then.

Even despite being a genius swordsman, no matter his talents, he was simply not flexible enough to gain the upper hand.

Now he was sure that man not only used his sword, but his mind, and tricks he learned under being a mercenary to take victory from his grasp.

He needs to redo his training from scratch! Consider adding other options to his style!

He was sure, this time, he will be the victor! This time, he will reach even greater heights!

"So, what can you tell us about him?"

"You mean, Erya Uzruth?"

"Yes."

"Hmm, he is a remarkable swordsman, back then, maybe even better than Gazef and me."

"So, you know him?"

"Of course, I know him. Every swordsman who's worth something knows him at least by name."

"Wait. What do you mean back then? You say… he is not that good anymore?"

"What I have seen today confirmed one thing. He has not really practiced since the tournament. His technique like years ago. Impressive, still not showing any considerable growth, or any difference. Now, maybe even I can defeat him."

"Tournament?" Elysia blinked, not understanding what the man speaking about. "What tournament?"

"The tournament of Re-Estize a few years back." Brain explained, recalling his memories.

"The same where Gazef Stronoff beat me, earning the rank of Warrior Captain, and in shame, I retreated to hone my skill."

For long years, he cared nothing more just to pursue the art, discarding everything important.

Brain just smiled, remembering the tournament, remembering that night when Shalltear Bloodfallen destroyed his dreams and everything he worked for—remembering waking up in that icy cell, broken and without a goal.

"Yet, it was all for notch; I was such a fool." he chuckled, realizing his own mistake. "I am but dust before the raging storm."

"Huh? What are you speaking about?" This man was confusing. What the hell is he speaking about? The kitsune player now was honestly confused.

"Elysia-dono, the world is a lot bigger than one may expect…" Once more, Brain chuckled sourly, just now, his new employer coming to his mind, looking up at the sky, remembering her form before the bars.

"What do you want?"

"Let's see what you can offer first." she smiled at him, giving Brain a new purpose in life.

The dark clouds already started to gather, drops of rain urging the people to find a safe place against it.

"Filled with dread, just as well miracles, and chances to restart. I was lucky enough to earn the latter."

Just like that, Brain started to walk forth, pocketing his hands. "Let's find an inn. I need a good drink, my treat."

In the next moment, not far from them, a man started to shout.

"Under his Imperial Majesty's magnanimous care, under the week of founding, the grand arena opens its gates to anyone who wants to challenge their prowess and strength. Only under the week of founding, challenge yourself, earn the chance to fight against the Martial Lord himself! Earn titles and prizes never before! Claim recognition of the nation and the Emperor himself! Earn immortal glory in the arena! Just under the founding week! Registration is free to anyone! Don't let this chance go! Challenge yourself! Be glorious!"

A crier clothed in pompous clothes and, holding a scroll, shouted, announcing the Emperor's new decree.

Before his podium guards standing, ensuring the crowd gathered around will do nothing drastic.

"Interesting… well, we will be here for a few more days. Maybe I will try myself." driven by this new idea, Raidyn felt she may find a new activity she can enjoy here.

She will not neglect her duties, of course, though, only wanting to see this arena in the breaks of her work.

"I never saw a real arena before; this will be a good experience…" and thus, she smiled, an idea born in her head while she followed Brain to the closest bar.

Scene Change: The Imperial Palace:

Deep inside the Imperial Palace, in a specific lavish office, a man with blond hair sat.

For appearance, he was young, his eyes clear purple, like amethysts, shining in the magical illumination his room was lit with, reading several papers in his hand, an almost bored expression settled on his face.

"Your majesty, please, think about it, after that assassination attempt I don't think it is the best…!"

"They will try again regardless…" The Emperor looked at his assistant, his expression quite bored despite speaking about such a serious topic. "…better round them up in one place, and get rid of the traitors once and for all. Why do you think I started to spread the rumors about the assassination, and a supposed injury?" Now, they will think he is vulnerable; they will also know he is not likely to postpone the gala.

Whoever sent those people knows well enough, it would be political suicide if he does so.

And thus, the idea born in the young Emperor's mind. Round those traitors and assassins up, and get rid of them all at once. It will not only show he is still in control but getting rid of the traitors once again will be beneficial to him in the long run. Either way, it is his win.

"I-I see…"

"Now then… let's return to our previous topic. How are the preparations for the celebration proceeding?"

"Ye-Yes!" the assistant scribe cleared his throat, collecting himself. "The preparation for the grand gala proceeds according to plan, your Imperial Majesty. All noble houses sent a positive answer to your invitation…"

His most faithful servant continued his report, reading whatever information the Emperor needed to know about the current situation.

Indeed, controlling a vast nation like his burdened him greatly, yet, such tasks were normal in his daily life.

He had more tasks now, as the grand gala is coming — celebrating the founding day of the great Baharuth Empire.

But it was just like usual, before big events, his workload always piled up. He has already gotten used to it over the passing years.

"Organizing a trap to those traitors is kinda relaxing in a way…" He thought.

All in all, he already got used to this in the passing years. Nothing he can't bear or manage; after all, he has been raised to be the Emperor since he was a child. His workload was exceptional, just like his management skills.

In fact, the current task — listening to someone else reporting the current state of things, meanwhile reading another paper he held in his hand in his spare time — was quite relaxing… at least compared to everything else his program has in store for him today.

"Meeting with nobles is more exhausting…" Most of them were unruly and unpleasant people, only infesting his Empire with their greed.

In truth, he replaced many already with more skilled people when he came to power — regardless of upbringing — using clever schemes and forged charges to replace them without any considerable uproar.

"Unfortunately, I can't do it with all of them. It is unfortunate, but they still are important pillars of our society. If I do it, all the nobles will rise against me, leading to civil war."

Without them, the Empire will most likely collapse, even with his genius organizing skills, he still needed the support of the biggest noble houses to govern his Empire.

It was even harder to always smile around them — wanting to keep the picture of the pleasant and merciful Emperor, the picture that most people, despite his nickname — Bloody Emperor — thought about him.

He had to vomit when he thought about meeting them!

"Good, good…" he hummed, forcing his usual charming and collected smile on his face, it came naturally after his long years of practice.

"Tell, any news about that mysterious magic caster?" for a moment, his name didn't come to his mind; he had too many things going on recently to recall it right away. "That Ainz Ooal Gown fellow…" he snapped his finger, remembering it.

"Hmm… A moment, please." the secretary — a young man with graying hair — skimmed the stack of papers in his hand, containing the news that circulated in the empire and the neighboring countries.

"Ah! Here it is! From the latest report arrived from Fluder Paradyne — and the rest of our sources — we still have no clue who the mysterious magic caster, Ainz Ooal Gown is. No new reports about him, neither have we found any clue about his existence anywhere. Nor our spies managed to find anything about him. It is like…"

"It is like what?" the Emperor turned to the man, raising one of his brows.

His secretary was his most faithful servant, most diligent worker — maybe in all of his Empire.

It was even visible on his hair — despite being young, his hair already greyed — yet, the first time for a long time, the Emperor saw the concern on his face.

"It is like he didn't even exist in the first place, your imperial majesty. No records about the existence of a magical caster called Ainz Ooal Gown, not in our archive, or in any other nations around."

"I see…"

"It is quite odd… considering Lord Fluder's reports… if you allow me to say this."

"Hmm, I see… it is possible the name Ainz Ooal Gown is a pseudo one, and his real name is something else entirely?"

"Possibly, your majesty. Unfortunately, we don't have enough information to investigate this."

"I see, I see… how unfortunate." the Emperor hummed thinking.

Fluder pictured this Ainz Ooal Gown figure as an immensely powerful magic caster. A person his Empire needed just now.

"If we would find him, I would offer him immense benefit just for joining…" such was his thinking about the matter.

"There is also the case with the two adventurer teams, rapidly rising to adamantite rank. They might have a connection with this mysterious magic caster."

"Two adamantite teams? Rapidly rising?" Jircniv raised his brow. Now, this was interesting news.

He heard rumors about such a thing but to actually think they were true?

He found the appearance of not one, but two adamantite ranked adventurer teams under such a short time very unlikely. Almost as if it was forged to deceive him.

"What's the chance this "rumor" is actually a forgery?"

"Our spies and sources made their investigation thoroughly. Their appearance, 100% guaranteed. More concerning, both teams registered in the kingdom."

"I see, I see… hmm."

Jircniv started to think hard.

Adamantite teams were a force to be reckoned with. People who are often worth an entire nation when it comes to combat power.

True, adventurers are by nature neutral when it comes to armed conflict between nations, taking no part in wars or politics — Their own guild's rules forbid them to do so.

Still, the adamantite rank was different. It was an exception amongst adventurers! People who can even ignore the rules of their own guild and come out without any repercussions.

After all, the adventurer guild would be a fool to throw away such exceptional individuals. People… even heroes who can challenge his four Imperial Knights, and possibly win in the end.

For them, even if they broke a few rules, the guild would make an exception and not punish or ban them right away.

If such people turn their swords against him and his nation… worse! Turn to be workers and join under the Kingdom's banner. Let's just say, the balance which until now favored his nation in the yearly conflict can easily be reversed.

"Even the Empire only has one adamantite team. Compared to the two teams residing in, and clearly allied with the kingdom. We are at a disadvantage when it comes to fighting power…"

True, in recent years, he tried to make the adventurers less significant, making his knights more trained and equipped, even spending a great deal on the magical institute of his Empire — increasing both the power and number of the magic casters his nation housed.

"Not to mention, the training of the knight corps became a lot more rigorous, their equipment better thanks to the magical research branch."

Still, adamantite teams were no joke; they cannot be ignored just like normal adventurers. They were a force to be reckoned with—people who can tip the balance on a national scale.

"Their number basically doubled in an instant!"

This was a concern; he can no longer ignore. The kingdom gaining assets like that in an instant, was a grave danger to his nation!

This was a problem, he immediately needed assets, or he and his Empire would lose face. After that… a collapse would start and brick by brick, he would lose the ground under his feet!

"Any information about them? Can they be bribed to transfer to our nation?" he immediately asked his assistant. He needed to get at least one of them, or his Empire would lose face, exposing itself to attacks from all sides.

The first one to use this weakness to their advantage will be the kingdom, then the Slane Theocracy — thinking his Empire weak enough for a full takeover.

"Even with their conflict with the elf nation, those Slane bastards will be bold enough to consider such action, and actually backstab us." the temples, seeing the weak government, will most likely support them.

"Hmm…" the assistant once more searched amongst his notes, skimming through the papers. "Our latest reports indicate they both have two members."

"Two? Just two?! Don't speak nonsense! No group can become adamantite rank with just two members!" Not to mention in such a short time! It was impossible. The Emperor can only scoff hearing such nonsense!

"Please forgive me, your majesty, that is what the reports state. But you are right; I'll send someone to investigate it right away. If one thinks about it, it is indeed an absurd statement."

"Do so…" the Emperor huffed indignant, sighing low.

What a ridiculous idea!? Only two members and adamantite class? Never before has that happened under history. Albeit, this servant of his never disappointed him before. Maybe he is right and the data is correct? Or he started to lose his edge? Either way, further investigation needed to confirm his suspicion.

"But before that, tell me everything we currently know about them. So we can make a comparison when the fresh data arrives."

"As you wish…" and thus, the attendant started to list information currently known.

"Hmm, I see…" he hummed, thinking hard. "By the way, has anything interesting happened recently?" to ease his mind, he started to ask things not connected to this case. "Any interesting reports around the city?"

"An elf envoy also arrived in the city. Visiting the ministry of magic, more importantly, Fluder Paradyne."

"What is Jiji up to?" Jircniv muttered, pondering hard what the old geezer was up to.

"Who is the envoy who visited him?"

"Master Sharian Farfiel Vaydark. An important member of the elven council, also, a powerful magic caster. His escorts consist of people like Hagmar Olalee Iliyra, the Paladin Captain of the order of the rising phoenix, and Valynn Vasati Inajyre, the apprentice of Master Vaydark — also powerful magic caster, and the member of the famous Inahyre family."

"The other members?"

"Mostly unknown… except two…"

"What do you mean?"

"Maybe it is a little late to mention, but amongst the escorts, there were two strange figures, wearing all ragged body cloaks. One is carrying a huge sword on her back. The second has something like a tail hanging under her cloak."

"And…? What about them?" it was a strange description. But adventurers came in many kinds, amongst them, his empire even employed demi-humans — for Jircniv, it was all the same, if they provided results, he employed them.

"In truth, if not for the human supremacist nonsense of the nearby Theocracy, I would even gladly allow demi-humans to be full citizens…" he was not really fond of their politics; unfortunately, he wanted to remain on their good side. The churches would also question his rulership if he starts to employ demi-humans on a big scale.

"Without churches, the casualty rate of wars would go sky high…" churches provided healers for war and healing for common people. If they refuse to comply and deny this service, the death toll will skyrocket, and the people will blame him.

"Both wore adventurer plates on their neck."

"I see, rank?"

"Hmm…" once more skimming the papers, the man raised his brow. "Hmm, the guards didn't register their plates, being they escorted a person with diplomatic status. But now, as I see it..."

"..." Jircniv remained patient, waiting for the assistant to continue.

"...This is entirely fresh info, that came directly before our meeting. In truth, it only came to my attention just now…" the assistant skimmed a few more papers, raising his brow.

"It is the usual report coming from the minister of magic. Mostly, just the usual things, the current advancements in magic, reports about our magic casters…"

The scribe's eyes squinted, akin finding something interesting, for this even the Emperor raised his brow subtly.

"What's interesting… According to a footnote, Fluder-dono had been visited by these elven diplomats. Aside from the mentioned members, the Kingdom's Adamantite team, Silver Wolf, was also present in the meeting, escorting the diplomats."

"…" slowly, Jircniv turned to his assistant, for the first time in a long time his rage started to boil, uncontrollable like a storm, bursting forth. "And you mentioned this… NOW!?"

The assistant flinched, ashamed he didn't let his Emperor know this important information until now.

"I-I am sorry, my Emperor, this is entirely new info. As said, it was attached in the last moment to the report, only as a footnote, not longer than a few sentences."

"Haah! I suppose it cannot be helped." Jircniv slumped back in his comfortable seat exhausted. "Jiji is one thing: he is obsessed with magic; that's his nature. He really cannot be bothered to write reports. But that minister… we need to consider his replacement if he continues like this. Putting such an important thing as a footnote? Unacceptable!"

"As you say, my Emperor."

"Find out where they reside, and send out an invitation for both of them, we invite them to the gala. Let's see if I can manage to convince them to transfer to us."

"It will be done!"

"Good. Now, tell me…" with that, the meeting continued, the assistant filling the Emperor in on important info.

Scene Change: The next day:

"So, this is the grand coliseum of Arwintar, huh?" disguised as a contender — with a dark all-body cloak, and a scarf which covered her entire head — Raidyn looked up at the circular construct, seeing the long line before her.

"Hmm, not bad. And look at that! So many competitors!" Indeed many people gathered and stood in line to get their chance to compete. She also stood in the line for an hour, and as she suspected, it may take one more to get through that double-sided gate.

"Well, I spent all my night and the remainder of yesterday working on those reports, and Momonga also said it is fine if I check this arena out."

It is for information gathering, after all, testing her skills against the best this country can offer was natural — as she put it for her friend.

Yet, in truth, she was also curious how well the people of this country would fare against someone like her.

In all seriousness, she only encountered people a lot weaker than them. "Even Brain-kun, who is said to be a genius, and not far behind Gazef Stronoff, is quite disappointing in player standards."

Of course, that didn't mean they will be less careful with their operations in the future, just that… until now, they encountered no serious threat. Which might easily change in the future.

"Other powerful beings… or even players can lie in wait out there, only waiting for the chance to strike when we are the most vulnerable, we can't risk it!"

Momonga told her to try to be friendly with other players if she encounters them, and invite them to the tomb where they will have the advantage if it comes to a fight.

This was a dangerous gamble, of course, still not knowing who was the true culprit behind the brainwashing was unsettling.

Though, inviting them and ambushing them in a familiar environment — if they prove to be hostile — is still better than the other option, fighting the enemy head-on in an environment where they can set a trap, or they are not familiar with.

"We handed out world items to the guardians; we will not get caught off guard once more!"

In the tomb, they can isolate them to a single floor, set a trap, and deal with them if they turn out to be hostile.

If not, they can simply employ them as a new ally. People who came from the same world as them would obviously want to figure out what happened and how to get back. No?

"It would be better if we could find allies rather than enemies, at least there would be more people to help figure out what happened."

Honestly, aside from a few absurd theories she and Momonga came up with, they found no concrete evidence of how they ended up like this.

"A weird Isekai… yeah, pretty much like that." she chuckled. Considering her situation, this was indeed the proper title. "Ahhh… I need to make sure to buy some neat souvenirs for Momonga and the others. Or they might hold a grudge…" the guardians and the different servants, not likely. But Momonga? Possibly… he was a hoarder; after all, he was like a kid when it came to collecting things.

"Well, I wonder what the fighters will be. Let's hope I can meet a few interesting figures."

…

Meanwhile, in the grand arena, the rows were always filled.

This event, of course, earned a hefty sum for the Empire, filling the treasury before the annual battles and reducing the potential losses of the upcoming celebration.

Registration was free for anyone, true, but buying a ticket still cost a lot: Most of the tickets were already sold out before the event really started.

Thanks to the healers and priests employed in the infirmary the loss of people was fewer than before but not zero!

Despite this, since the week-long tournament started, many challengers arrived continuously, providing the crowd with proper entertainment.

The fights went on from dawn till dusk. Multiple competitors fighting against each other, each time, either an all-out match — deathmatch style — or against beasts and different monsters captured from all around the world. Sometimes mixing all of this, everyone fighting everything.

But, to make things interesting, many famous arena fighter teams are also invited, making them fight against each other — team fights.

Indeed, whoever organized the matches and compiled the program of the seven days long competition made sure anyone watching the games never feels bored for one moment or wants to leave their seat.

One may say, of course: "if no one leaves, others can't come in to spend their money on these matches."

Fortunately, even though that was the case; the income of this event was enough to make it worth it.

Calculating the expensive buffet and government-financed gambling the arena housed, it was well worth it to sell tickets until the stadium is filled, then let the people stay until the event ended.

Of course, many may ask: why not organize such events each day?

The answer was quite obvious… the lack of fighters, and the cost of the beasts used in this tournament.

Making a week-long tournament once a year was fine, doing so every day for each year? Even the empire runs out of gladiators and adventurers willing to risk their hide. Not to mention beasts to send against these opponents cost a lot to buy, train, and maintain.

"Wow! Master! We are really here! The grand arena of the empire!"

Several familiar figures were seated in the upper rows, giving them a perfect view in the middle of the grand arena.

"Tch! It was not my idea; you can believe me. If not for the ambassador giving us these tickets, I wouldn't have come. Remember, you still need to train hard to become a proper knight. Your skill is far from ideal."

"Yes, master…" the squire lowered his head, hearing the paladin Captain's berating words.

"You could have simply remained at the embassy… Iliyra." pushing the edge of his hat up with a single finger, Nevarth started to grin. He expected trouble, making the Paladin Captain ticked off was only the icing on the top.

"Tch! No one asked you, troublemaker…!"

"Oh! Harsh words, my lady… you are really bad at this… Iliyra-chan! Aren't you?" him teasing her just made it even worse.

"Ju-Just shut up! And don't call me like that!" her face immediately heated up. If it was because of her rage or embarrassment, no one aside from the handsome elf knew.

"Paladin Captain?"

"Oh! But that's your name; it would be a shame to keep it as a secret." Nevarth winked at Iliyra, making her scoff.

"Tch! Your flattery is unneeded! Besides, it is a good opportunity for young Folen to see how such a thing goes amongst humans. He can see how real battles are fought, learn, not everyone follows the way of honor in the battlefield! " Referring to the young squire, the youngster hummed, now understanding his master's intention.

"I see! So that was the master's intention. Thank you, my lady, for giving me this opportunity!" the squire lowered his head, now clearly understanding what her goal bringing him here was. As expected, his lady was thinking about everything. Hopefully, he can learn from his experience watching the gladiators fight today and grow even more!

"Heh… she is totally lying; she loves arena matches, that's all. Seeing those tickets, she just can't resist." whispered Nevarth grinning, leaning close to the figure sitting near him.

"Is that so?" Brain chuckled, glancing subtly over the elf lady.

"Ju-Just shut up, Nevarth! No one needs to know that!"

"Oh! But it is obvious; ever since our childhood, you liked this stuff. It is not a shameful thing. It is fun!" Laughed the rogue, earning an even more profound blush and glare from his childhood friend.

"This is still not a proper thing, as a paladin captain…"

"Yadda! Yadda! Ever since you entered that so-called "Holy" order, you became a stuck up ice queen! Geez! Relax a little bit, or you'll grow old sooner than a simple human."

"Just shut up!" muttered the captain bitter, even turning her head away in an attempt to hide her intense blush.

"Haah! Brain-kun, why are we here?" near Brain, Elysia sat, pondering why she is here now. "You said you would train with me today… "

"Well, it has been a long time since I visited Arwintar and the arena. I thought, why not come, it was a free ticket the ambassador gifted us, after all. It would be a waste not to accept it. Also, as Iliyra-dono said, it is a good opportunity for you to see different fighting techniques and people. Raidyn-dono asked me to teach you a few techniques when I can. This is the perfect place to see interesting things." Brain grinned, but from Elysia's flat expression, it was obvious she was not amused.

"Sure…"

"Brain-dono, have you visited the arena many times? Did you participate?" the squire was excited; at least his expression unmistakably painted such a picture.

"A few times, when I was younger, yes. But I never really participated in this particular arena, just the one in the Kingdom, and several other smaller ones."

"Oh! You mean the grand tournament of Re-Estize. I remember, your fight with Gazef Stronof even reached our nation."

"I am flattered, Methild-dono. Still, it is a particularly bad memory. After all, I lost against Gazef that day. I'd rather not recall it."

"Hmm, still, as I heard, you gained many invitations from different parties, even from our kingdom. Wonder why you didn't accept any of them."

"The reason is my own…" Brain lowered his head, his mood turning sour immediately.

"I see… Please forgive me for asking it."

"Sure…" and like that, it was not mentioned again.

"LADIES AND GENTLEMAN! THE FIRST ROUND OF TODAY'S TOURNAMENT STARTS SOON! PREPARE YOURSELF! MAKE YOUR BETS! DON'T FORGET! THE WINNER OF EACH DAILY TOURNAMENT WILL WIN A HUGE PRIZE! MORE IMPORTANTLY! THE CHANCE TO FIGHT TOE TO TOE WITH THE MARTIAL LORD HIMSELF!"

The whole arena burst out in a huge cheer, hearing the magically cranked up announcer.

"Martial Lord?" Elysia blinked, never hearing that title before.

"You never heard about him before?"

"No?" the girl shook her head. How should she hear about him? This was her first time here.

"Ah! That's right… Elysia-dono has never been here before. By the way, where are you and Raidyn-dono came from? You never spoke about it." Nevarth asked, curious.

They traveled together for a few days, yet, the girl and her companion said nothing about where they came from.

"From a faraway country, up from the east…" that was the cover story Raidyn and she came up with. "At least for me, in truth, I met Raidyn under my travels and teamed up with her. She never specified where she came from."

"I see…"

"You still didn't tell me what this Martial Lord thing is? Is it a title?"

"Ah, yes! Martial Lord is the title given to the grand champion of the arena. According to the rumors, the current one has held the title for around ten years."

"Wow!"

"Indeed… wow!" Nevarth laughed, thoroughly understanding the girl's surprise.

Gladiator fights were dangerous! The competitors were risking their lives each time they fought.

Albeit, in recent years the death toll has lessened — since they added the opportunity to forfeit, their enemy can even spare them.

Still, it was a match where the competitors went toe to toe, doing their best in a fight — with real weapons, magic, and items.

Most of the deaths were against beasts — who rarely stopped once their "meal" was on the ground.

In this one week, more blood stained the sand of the arena than under multiple months of regular use.

Gladiators fought for prizes and recognition, but more importantly, fame! Fame was the most important thing for many gladiators of this arena. The fact someone recognized them and their hard work!

Most gladiators started as slaves, forced to fight. Their only chance to ever get free is to become famous fighters and earn enough for their masters to be freed eventually.

"LADIES AND GENTLEMAN! THE PORTCULLIS SLOWLY OPENS! LET'S WELCOME TODAY'S FIGHTERS AND CHAMPIONS!"

Many people started to walk out of the multiple entrances of the coliseum. Some are waving to the cheering crowd, some ignored them, and some boasted their Impressive stature.

"Owaaa!"

The arena boomed with the cheers of the crowd — the life essence of these brave fighters as many called it. The fighters were really fired up, hearing the cheers from around.

"Well, they seem strong enough. Today's roster seems to be a proper one at least."

"Hmm… indeed, the last day was disappointing."

A few people chattered not far from Elysia and the band, speaking about yesterday's matches.

All around, people spoke about such things. Money often even changed hands privately while people made private bets.

Mobile vendors were selling food at ridiculous prices, those who didn't want to leave their seats to visit the arena's already expensive buffet had to buy from them.

All in all, Elysia didn't expect less from such an event; this place really has "that" unique atmosphere she expected.

"Well, it is good… still, surrounded by this many people, I feel a little insecure. It would be better if Raidyn was also here."

Raidyn, aka Esdeath, told her she had a few things she had to take care of in the morning, but she will be back soon.

That was a few hours ago, Elysia really hoped her friend didn't just ditch her and went back to the Tomb without her to rest — or work again — while she was forced to come to this stuffed coliseum.

"Not that I was forced…it is just weird watching this without her. Still, even last night, she did the same, was up all night, and sent those papers with those goblins through that portal. She seriously needs to get her priorities straight. She always overworks herself…"

It was hard to admit, but she liked to be around her. Even if it happened rarer and rarer ever since that Ainz figure appeared, Elysia still felt some kind of warm safety when Esdeath was around. A feeling that no matter what happens, she can protect her, or find a solution no matter the situation.

"Like on the street yesterday… I felt a chill around that man. Pure hate aimed directly against me! Akin to someone who wants to kill me. Yet, she protected me. She always protects me…" when Raidyn saved her and beat that guy up like it was nothing, she felt relieved — more so, a warm feeling in her chest emerging. Filled with a sense of safety once again.

Now, as Raidyn was not around, once more, she felt insecure.

"Still, I want to learn how to protect myself properly! I need to get stronger to prove; I am not just a nuisance!" ever since they traveled together, it was always her who saved and protected Elysia.

It was a nice feeling that someone really cares about her, still, she hated being the damsel in distress!

She wanted to be useful! She wanted to be equal! She wanted to count for something!

"I want to show those maids and everyone in that tomb… I am not just a beast!"

"LADIES AND GENTLEMAN! NEWS JUST ARRIVED! OUR BELOVED EMPEROR, HIS MAJESTY Jircniv Rune Farlord El Nix IS WATCHING THE MATCH WITH US TODAY! GIVE HIM A CHEER AND APPLAUSE! LET'S GIVE HIM OUR WARMEST WELCOME!"

"The Emperor himself?"

"Here?"

Many whispered at first flabbergasted; then, as a blonde man stood on the balcony of one of the three VIP rooms and started to wave while smiling, the whole arena burst out in cheers, mostly from women.

It was evident, the emperor of this nation was really popular.

"Wow! So many people are cheering!" Elysia can only blink.

"Indeed, it is said Emperor Jircniv, is one of the most popular Emperors since the founding of this nation," Nevarth whispered to Elysia, humming.

"Truly?"

"Just as I said…" grinned the handsome elf under his hat.

…

"Haah, it never changes…" Jircniv offered his brightest smile, waving to his people.

"Your popularity, as usual, is without peer, your majesty."

"Ah, it is just like usual. It is sometimes really tiring…"

"Your majesty should not worry about such a thing now. Instead, why not try to enjoy the match? Who knows, we may find another promising individual to join your side."

"As always, you are right, Baziwood. I wonder if this year's tournament will be different than the others, and the Martial Lord will choose someone he wants to challenge…"

"We will see your majesty. Let's not forget, that didn't happen for a few years, the Martial Lord refused to choose an opponent in this event ever since that man." the Imperial Knight bowed in respect, still holding a firm posture, ready to protect his Emperor whenever needed.

"Hmm, I remember the rumors about that battle, too bad he died. He would have made a splendid fifth addition."

"As you say, your majesty. Unfortunately, in battle, the flow often goes out of control. As I remember, the Martial Lord even gave that man the chance to forfeit, yet, he chose to continue that hopeless battle."

"How unfortunate…" Jircniv remembered what Baziwood said about the current Martial Lord. Even if all four Imperial Knights went against him, they wouldn't be able to beat him. It was no accident; he held his title for ten long years.

"Please, enjoy the fight and recuperate your majesty. You deserve it." the second Imperial Knight standing not far nodded in agreement.

"Hmm, I'll try my best." With a gentle yet steady motion, Jircniv waved, signalling the match could start.

"LADIES AND GENTLEMAN! TODAY'S FIRST ROUND! AN ALL OUT MATCH! THE LAST TWENTY WHO SURVIVE CAN PROCEED TO THE SECOND ROUND! LET'S BEGIN!"

And thus, the all-out match started. The outcome is quite obvious! Let's see how Raidyn and the rest of the competitors will manage!

A/N:

Well, this is it! Sorry for the long and exhausting wait!

I hope the chapter worth the wait! :P

In the next chapter:

The grand tournament! How will Raidyn fare in the arena?

What will happen under the grand gala?

Will the culprit reveal itself? What about Fluder's ritual? Will it succeed?

Stay awhile and listen… and you will know it!

The next chapter comes when it is ready!

Until then!

Stay safe! Sail safe! Good winds! Good night! Good day! Stay away from Corona!

Until next time!

RnR!

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