Disclaimer: I don't own Fate and Overlord nor any of the spin offs related to it nor am I associated with any of it's creators. No copyright infringement is intended.

As Zesshi descended upon the forest that would serve as her battleground, she could not help but feel that she was making a mistake.

In a battle, one's surroundings would be a huge factor in deciding the victor, hence why scouting and knowledge of the land was crucial. Even if the opponent was overwhelming in strength, if one utilized this factor well, victory remained a possibility.

However, the grounds that she was on, that being the Great Forest of Evasha, were ones she knew knew little of. Regardless, she stood her ground, and not even a moment after she had made landfall, another figure descended, gently landing across from her.

In front of her was a humanoid entity, but she knew that they were anything but human. Considering the power that her opponent possessed, that left only two possibilities.

If they were a natural entity, something along the lines of what the Demi-Humans spoke of in their myths, then her defeat was all but assured. However, she refused to believe this was the case.

That left but a singular possibility; her opponent was in some way, related to the same world that their Theocracy's founders had hailed from. If this was the case, then her opponent should likely be just as unfamiliar with her surroundings as she was, rendering the terrain a non-factor.

In the end, regardless of who the victor is, the fact that this forest shall be an inevitable casualty caused Zesshi to grin.

Heh...serves that bastard right.

As for who would be that primary cause of said damage, it would without a doubt be her opponent, no thanks to the disparity in power that was present. If this was the case, provided that the forest did have some way of protecting itself, those precautions would no doubt side with her thanks to this and her ancestry, despite her disdain for the latter.

Enkidu meanwhile, observed their surroundings with a sense of sadness. Their opponent had brought them to a land that had all but assured their victory, yet if they were to utilize their more destructive capabilities, that would mean damage to the forest.

Judging by her speed, I can surpass her at my base. If that's the case...

With but a thought, Enkidu's body began to transfigure itself to suit their needs. In a battle where nearly all manner of attacks was a risky maneuver and an increase in speed is unnecessary, that left but one physical trait to improve.

The skin that they possessed which appeared to be soft and delicate, hardened to a level to which even the tip of Divine Class items would find difficulty in piercing, whitest the mightiest of spells would fail to cause any reaction.

Of course to compensate, their other capabilities were reduced, though only slightly. This however, would be irrelevant as they had already accounted for these differences.

The battle is already won. All I need to do now is talk.

Upon Enkidu's observations, one factor was already made clear. "Was it truly a wise decision to bring me here? You seem to be unfamiliar with these lands compared to the city we came from. It is a foolish mistake to give up such an advantage, no?"

Zesshi was unfazed by this and simply smirked. "Well...you got me there. But to be honest, I just have a personal grudge against this place. If you think I'm luring you into a trap, feel free to set this whole forest ablaze."

"Oh and also, and you wouldn't happen to be...what did they call them...ah! You wouldn't happen to be a Faerie or something of the sort right?"

Faerie? The same entity that Buser had called me? Are they perhaps a noteworthy species here...?

Though Enkidu had no memories of such entities, their body inherently understood the weight behind the name, giving off a powerful yet familiar feeling. This contrast however, simply left them even more bewildered.

"Judging by your reaction, I'd say no. That's good." The girl breathed a sigh of relief. "Well then if you don't mind..."

In an instant, she vanished with a flicker and in the next, she was above Enkidu with an over-sized bow in hand. Arrows whose tips were drenched with a cursed poison more lethal than a Basilisk's flew towards their head, neck, and back with a trajectory and speed that was unnatural.

"She who makes the first move...wins!"

The arrows however, failed to even penetrate the skin as they seemingly stabbed into Enkidu's flesh before falling to the ground in an almost comical manner, though the sizzling Zesshi heard once the arrows landed indicated anything but.

Enkidu having seen the attack and its futility, picked up one of the fallen arrows, holding it in front of them for a moment before tossing it away.

"These are [Bites of the Hydra] arrows. Then I presume the bow in your hand is the [Bow of Nine Poisons] then?" asked Enkidu casually.

"Though you did it indirectly...thanks for confirming some of my suspicions. You and your friend are far from home, aren't you?

As Zesshi mentioned this, fond and familiar yet far and distant memories of battle and rest flooded back. "Yes, I suppose I am. How about you? The weapon that you are wielding is one I am familiar with. Did you arrive here recently too?"

"Nah, this bow was simply one of the items that the founders left behind. The arrows shot by it have been lethal to nearly everyone I've seen so far...but for them to have completely no effect...it seems that even among your kin, you aren't normal." As Zesshi spoke, her mind formulated the few options she had available.

This is bad...The eroding effects that the poison on the arrows had...it is absolute. Not even that man could have faced them head on without any preperations...! Is it some kind of Projectile Protection ability? No...if it was, it shouldn't have been able to nullify all four shots...!

As she thought however, the frustrations and animosity that she held for Enkidu before which had only been suppressed by the thrill of battle prior, returned in its entirety.

What are you...!?

"Hm...so Gil's theory was spot on." muttered Enkidu before turning their attention back onto Zesshi and her weapon.

What she currently wielded was a Legendary Class item, one which not only fired penetrative shots that few equipment could defend against, but were also laced with a corrosive poison, afflicting a status which not only dealt heavy damage over time, but also lowered the target's stats continuously.

The bow itself was rare in spite of only being only of the Legendary tier, being obtainable only by utilizing rare data crystals that came from a limited time boss which rested within the fogy depths of Niflheim in addition to various other requirements.

Thanks to it's power, utility, and versatility, the weapon was a staple among the higher echelons of PvP, with rumors circulating that the weapon had a significantly stronger version which served as one of the legendary World Items.

However against Enkidu, the weapon itself would be meaningless, as thanks to [Transfiguration], it could simply shed the poison away as soon as the arrows struck. Meanwhile, any of the damage which wasn't mitigated by it's defenses were instantly healed through it's second ability, [Consummated Shape].

Regardless, the fact that a resident of this unknown world possessed such a weapon and was capable of using it meant that she likely knew more about the situation at hand than they did. If not, there was still more information to map out, specifically the gaps which Arche did not know herself.

"Judging by your reaction, I believe that [Bow of Nine Poisons] is among if not the strongest weapon you have at your disposal. If that is the case, then shall we stop fighting?"

"Huh? Stop fighting? Did I just hear you right?"

"As it currently stands, there is no reason to fight you. I have already confirmed your speed on our way here and your previous attacks have shown me thus; you cannot defeat me. Meanwhile, you may possess information that I do not yet know of."

"Therefore I propose a deal. If you are willing to tell me what I wish to know, than I shall allow you to go on your way. Whether you decide to flee or return back to your city in order to help your countryman, I do not care. I believe this is in your best interest too."

As it said this, Enkidu had already reverted the effects of [Transfiguration] which it had used in the beginning. There would no longer be a need to fight, and seeing that the girl seemed intelligent enough, the choice she would make was obvious.

However, her reaction would be anything but what it had expected. "

You...! Are you mocking me?!"

This thing...! It's smug expression, does it think the match is already won?! Does it see me as such a weakling that I'm not even worth fighting...?!

The rage that was bubbling inside her before now exploded with fury. As it did, her vision blurred as another familiar figure began to overlap with the one before her. A man adorned in royal garbs who stared down at her and her late mother in contempt.

"I have no more use for either of you. While killing you two here and now would be the most simplest resolution, you aren't even worth the effort to do so."

As the familiar words resurfaced in her mind, Zesshi's decision was made. "Fine...! You think you've won this huh...well, allow me to show you just how wrong you are...!"

"[Delay Magic: Teleportation] !"

Afterwards, she vanished, this time with the utilization of a teleportation skill which Enkidu was unfamiliar with, catching them off guard. Immediately it reacted, activating [Presence Detection] while also beginning the transfiguration process once more.

With its perception, it immediately saw four figures which fired their individual arrows, one right beneath its abdomen and another above heading straight for its nape, while the other two fired towards its sides.

As it did, Enkidu could immediately tell that three out of four of the attackers were simply decoys, which meant that their attacks were likely just images as well. Thus, all it had to do was focus its efforts towards the real one above.

Its objective was not to kill, but to incapacitate. Movement was unnecessary as chains emerged from the ground around them, flying in all directions though with different intent, swirling forward as if they were serpents.

The ones that flew from its sides and below swiped through the illusive arrows and struck through the decoys, causing them to instantly disappear, while the one headed above aimed to ensnare its target.

This all happened in an instant at a speed that far surpassed the ability for humans to react to, yet these two were anything but that. As soon as the chains wrapped around their target successfully, the final attacker which Enkidu had detected as real disappeared just as the other decoys did.

[Silent Cast: Shadow Clone] [Silent Magic: Dimensional Move]

Enkidu had expressed surprise for only a moment, but that was enough. By the time it figured out where its opponent was, it was already too late. A hastily made chain sprung from the ground in an effort to ensnare its attacker midway.

"[Limit Break: Perfect Evasion] ."

With godlike speed and precision, Zesshi's weapon slipped below the trajectory of the chain, the blade of her scythe clear; to cleave her opponent in two. In response, seeing that a blow was inevitable, [Transfiguration] took effect, maxing out Enkidu's defenses.

All it would have to do was tank a blow, as the chains it had sent out were already returned and would entrap their opponent from all angles with certainty, for its foe had already committed everything to this one attack.

The chains themselves were an offset of the World Item [Gleipnir], a weapon of binding whose effects were absolute, ensnaring its targets to such an extent that it was rumored even the try tested method of death followed by resurrection would fail to free one from its effects should the bindings encompass their target entirely.

However, as Enkidu had only used a small portion of its essence in conjunction with the resources around him, the effects of these chains would be nowhere near as drastic, but it would be more than necessary to nullify any and all attempts of escape.

The attack was made and with seemingly no resistance, the scythe cleaved right through Enkidu's torso. Right as the chains latched onto her however, she vanished and appeared a good distance away from Enkidu, appearing visibly fatigued. In her hand was a blackened scythe, one which very much resembled that of a grim reaper's.

Zesshi's victory was seemingly assured but to her dismay, the wound she had inflicted, one that should have sliced her opponent in two, merely closed with not even a single trace left. Though no lasting damage was done, Enkidu's expression was that of surprise, almost akin to a hunter discovering its prey to be much more formidable than it had anticipated.

"...I will admit, I am surprised. Never did I expect such combination of skills and equipment as you've shown. You have my praise." As they said this, Enkidu applauded their opponent.

Seeing her opponent unfazed despite the blow that she had dealt, the rage that had bolstered her resolve involuntarily weakened as worry began to creep back into her psyche.

This scythe which inflicts wounds that ignore defenses, that much seems to have worked, but their healing factor...there has to be some sort of catch to it.

"However, allow me to reiterate my previous point. Based on what you've shown me thus far, you cannot defeat me. The weapons that you possess are strong, your skills even more so, but it seems wielding them in conjunction with your skills has left you exhausted."

"Despite your unique performance, my previous assertion has not changed. Even if we were to continue this charade of a battle, the results should be obvious. All I simply ask for is your cooperation."

As Zesshi heard the words that were said to her once more, she clicked her tongue in annoyance upon realizing the mistake that she had made.

She quickly turned her attention to the chains which circled around her opponent. Having only escaped them by a hair's length earlier, she instinctively knew that they weren't normal. There was little doubt in her mind that if even a single limb was entangled by one, she'd likely have to abandon the appendage altogether.

While Zesshi didn't know for sure, she could feel that the creations before her was just one of the many things that her opponent could conjure up. Based on the number of weapons that its companion was able to wield, it was likely that this...entity could do so too.

That healing factor...there has to be some sort of catch to it...! Magic, or perhaps its our surroundings...if that's the case than this much is worth trying...!

"The results will not change you say...well, how about this! [Maximize Magic: Grand Inferno] !" As she cast the spell, the temperature began to swell and some of the plant life around the two started to burst into flames.

In an instant, the area around them erupted in flames as Enkidu was engulfed at the center of an azure pillar of pure destructive fire.

The spell itself was of the 7th Tier, its power shown in its entirety as the entire forest area began to catch fire and combust by simply being in the vicinity of the attack. With its effects even further enhanced by her magic, the entire area vanishing in a sea of flames was not out of the question as a power which had not been seen since the war against the Evil Deities.

At the center of this inferno, the chains which twirled around Enkidu dissipated back into the ground as a new construct began to form in their hands. What she soon saw was a shield, one whose surface shone with the intensity of a gaping star against the fire.

As soon as it appeared, the temperature almost instantly dropped and the blazing flames which consumed the forest began to swirl unnaturally towards the center of the shield, and before long, the entirety of Zesshi's spell had vanished completely.

The shield which had done this was now dimmed, yet its center glowed gently, almost as if eager to swallow up another spell. Meanwhile, the natural protection of the forest began to take into effect, and the ashen area around them began to bloom with life again, though at a rate which Zesshi knew was abnormal.

Well...that didn't take long to confirm...Still the fact that it had to defend against that attack-

"You are probably wondering why I bothered to defend myself in that manner, are you not? Perhaps you even believe now that fire is my weakness? Why don't I show you something then..."

As Enkidu said this, cracks began to appear on the shield which had nullified her attack. Judging by the calm expression that her opponent had, Zesshi knew that this was likely not her doing, but that of the item's creator. In the next instant, the shield shattered completely, its sand like remains pouring quickly onto the grass and dirt beneath them, with all but a single spark of that previous light remaining.

That light burst anew, and Zesshi soon felt the intensity of the flames which she had cast earlier. A pillar of fire erupted, only this time, the fire was focused, its intensity even greater than the great inferno that had torched the forest. In spite of this however, Enkidu's expression did not change, and they continued to stare at her, unblinking and calm.

With but a gesture of their hands, the flames vanished instantly and Enkidu remained unharmed.

"That shield's name was [Svalinn Reverse] and as you saw, it is able to absorb magical attacks at a cost. Should the shield break however, the full brunt of the damage that it nullified will be dealt to its wielder. With this, you yourself have confirmed this, I'm sure."

"Do you understand the ramifications of what I am saying now?"

Tch, if you were really invincible, you wouldn't even have needed to conjure something in response.

However, as she thought this, Zesshi's attention shifted not towards Enkidu, but the plants around it. Before her opponent had conjured up that shield, she remembered that the extreme temperatures of her spell had already begun burning up the terrain around them simply just by existing.

Now, just as the newly reinvigorated flames disappeared in their entirety, so too did their effects. The flora at the figure's feet were no longer charring as they did before, but they regrew with vigor, now swaying gently to the light breeze of the air once more, their vitality seemingly strengthened by the mere presence of the figure before her.

Damn...so it wasn't them per say, but the environment...I see...So it was the one who caused that phenomenon back then...!

As Zesshi came to said conclusion, she realized she had made a fatal error. The entity before her wasn't a Faerie based upon her observations, but what she failed to account for were its abilities and specializations.

A powerful healing factor, skin and flesh stronger and harder than even that of a Dragon's, and the ability to seemingly conjure up weapons of a similar if not higher quality than those of the Founder's, and I'm fighting it in what may as well be its domain. Yep, with my current equipment...I can't win.

Her mind quickly raced back to the other item she had left behind, specifically the staff which stood at the altar's center, deep within the underground of the Slane Theocracy which she guarded.

Though there were plenty of other items present there that would have likely been considered to be on the level of national treasures for other countries, this staff was the final item piece that the Slane Theocracy's founders had left behind, a literal shining gem that represented the accumulation of their efforts and power.

The healing factor that they possess is unnaturally potent...but if I use that staff's effects in conjunction with my own magical abilities...then complete annihilation of both the surrounding areas and following that, direct combat with the figure before me should be possible. If my guess is right, either its healing factor or its vitality, hopefully both, will be neutralized then and there.

"Alright...fine. Tell me what you want to know then. All I ask is that you don't bind me with the chains you used earlier." said Zesshi finally, with what seemed to be a tinge of resignation on her face.

Enkidu seemed pleased with the response. "A wise decision. Then for my first question: The skills that you've used before, they have a limitation which is incompatible with the magics and items that you possess. How are you able to do this?"

As they said this, Enkidu thought back to the times that it had spent with Gilgamesh, specifically the individuals which they had fought during their journey. Nearly all of them had an identifiable pattern of abilities and spells stemming from their statuses which Enkidu could understand.

Said statuses were the skill trees which derived from the thousands of job classes that were present in YGGDRASIL. With a maximum level of one-hundred, if one wanted to properly utilize the most relevant spells and skills present within each skill tree, there would be numerous but finite number of combinations that were effective.

Thus, many of these opponents would have skill sets and spells as well as subsequent limitations that could be observed with only a brief skirmish. Though there were notable exceptions which were granted through specific spells which had numerous prerequisites, the most notable but also unpredictable factor was one's items.

However, the girl before Enkidu had used a combination which it was unfamiliar with. Therefore, that left only two possibilities; the girl either possessed an item which had removed the limitations that it did not know of, or she possessed an unknown trait native to this world which accomplished the same effect.

Arche has already told me about the concept of Talents and Martial Arts which certain individuals in this world possess, perhaps this is one of those. If not, then maybe an item of some sort that was crafted here?

"Well, I don't think I can explain without showing you. Mind a demonstration?" she asked in reply, receiving a nod in return.

"With a certain item that I possess, you could say that any and all limitations that may exist in regards to compatibility are rendered null and void. See, with this..."

As she muttered those words, Enkidu noticed that Zesshi had reached into a sack wrapped at her hip, though as soon as it saw the tip of what she was taking out, their eyes widened.

"[Dimen- "

"Too late! [Flashbang] !"

A burst of light shot accompanied by a loud bang resonated through the forest. While the stun effect did not affect Enkidu whatsoever, it had forced them to cancel the spell that it was about to cast. In near an instant, four chains spiraled out of the ground around and beneath the girl, intent on ensnaring her.

However, this instant was all she needed.

What was left in the girl's place was nothing but a used scroll, the sigils indicating that it contained the spell [Greater Teleportation]. Immediately, [Presence Detection] activated, intent on pinpointing where their opponent had went.

"A teleportation scroll with preset coordinates coupled with a surprise interruption based spell...she completely fooled me."

From when she had chosen to bring me here, had she planned all of this in advance?

Enkidu then pondered on their options. [Presence Detection] had indicated to them that the girl was no longer in the area. Based on how she had initially acted, Enkidu knew she was unfamiliar with these surroundings which likely meant that she wouldn't head in any direction that was further inward towards the forest.

Hm...but what if that was an act too? No...if it were, that would leave her Kingdom vulnerable. The reason why she brought me here was to ease the burden that they would face...

From a list of possible outcomes, the most likely one was her teleporting back to the Slane Theocracy. It was the most logical choice, as it would give her time to recover before she joined the rest of her forces in their fight against Gil.

"[Greater Teleportation] ." As Enkidu used the spell however, it realized that the magic had no effect.

A ward? I do not know of any other location I can teleport to around that city...which means I'll have to go back myself.

[Transfiguration] activated immediately as a pair of large feathered wings sprouted from behind Enkidu's back. Alongside this, their body was immediately lightened to the minimum limit as Enkidu shifted the majority of its body towards endurance and speed.

It had taken them about an hour's time to get here, but with Enkidu's new form, they doubted it would even take a tenth of that to get back to the city. However, as they began to flap their wings, they did so softly, never forgetting the flora which laid around it.

It was only until they were up in the sky did Enkidu shoot forward, and with a boom, the forest swayed along the winds gently once more, alone.

Within the recesses of the labyrinth constructed underneath the Slane Theocracy's capital, an exhausted Zesshi fell onto the floor with a thud as the effects of her Teleportation scroll wore off.

"Guh...it almost got me...!" she muttered slowly.

The girl sighed in relief and thanked her luck for being able to face against such an inexperienced opponent. With a swipe, she grabbed one of the crimson potions that were stored in the pouch beside her and gulped it down immediately.

In an instant, the fatigue that she'd accumulated earlier faded. However, though she felt a lot better, Zesshi did not relax. She quickly headed towards the altar where the golden staff rested.

I can't go up now, their friend is likely still battling the rest of the Black Scripture...

Despite such thoughts though, the area above the labyrinth seemed to be strangely quiet and devoid of noise, a stark contrast to what she was expecting.

Did they lose already? Well, if they did, I guess I can't really say anything. Still, even if that's the case, why hasn't Raymond activated those guys yet?

As she pondered on said thoughts, Zesshi quickly began her preparations. She had made the mistake of not buffing herself with magic prior to her earlier fight and made sure that this wouldn't be the case, applying every single one that she knew of.

"...[Mana Essence], [Greater Strength Boost], [Penetrate Up]...okay, that should be it."

While Kami Miyako's defenses were nigh flawless: holding a citywide barrier around its capital which prevented any outsiders from using teleport as a means of entry, a magically enhanced foundation that was the labyrinth underground and the watchtowers which littered the capital's borders, she knew they would do little to obstruct her opponent's return.

Assuming teleportation was out of the question, her opponent would likely be using fight as a means of travel.

Previously, it had taken her approximately half an hour to get to the center of the Great Forest of Evasha by flight, and her opponent was able to match her speed in full. While she did not know how fast her opponent was at their maximum, she would likely only have a fourth of that at best.

Looking below the top of the altar, there were two other spots which were supposed to hold items that were seen with similar values by the Slane Theocracy's founders. One of the items, a white dress, was ripped and stained with blood. The other held no longer held anything, having remained that way even as far back as when her mother was still alive.

Well, as it stands, I'm not even sure if this will be usable...Well, guess that only leaves me with a single option...

She stepped up towards the altar's top, her hand reaching out to grab the staff. As she held it, there was a feeling of rejection for only a split instant before she lifted it from its resting place.

[Creation and Destruction]...the founders certainly weren't creative with the naming...but I'll do.

The staff's tip more so resembled a crown, with a single, kaleidoscopic gem rested at its center, providing the energies and formula for the two magics contained within, which would then be channeled forward by the rest of the rod and its interaction with the wielder.

Simply just by holding the stave, she could feel her strength increase significantly. Though she still did not know whether or not this would be enough, what Zesshi was sure of however, was that the match would not be as one sided as before.

I don't have much time left...should I reemerge and join the fight now...?

If she used the staff that she held in her hands, then she would likely be able to ambush the man in gold above, though it would likely cost the city's surroundings and potentially, the lives of the Scripture members should they be in the way.

No...I've never used this staff before. If that man possesses similar abilities compared to his friend, he'll likely conjure up defensive measures in a manner of seconds...

When she had emerged from the labyrinth in order to strike the man down prior, she had already witnessed part of his capabilities. In an instant, all the defenses that was at the Slane Theocracy's disposal were eliminated in an instant, all with pristine precision and weapons which were of the same if not greater caliber than the weapons scattered around her.

Though Kami Miyako's defenses were not particularly strong to her, they were numerous enough to the point where she doubted she'd be able to eliminate even a third of them in the time frame that the man in gold had done so.

Indeed, if that man had routed the entirety of the Theocracy's defenses including its best warriors so easily, then eliminating her whitest she was in the middle of controlling the magic of the staff she still had little experience with would be an easy task. Seeing as he was decisive with his decisions, that meant that the same circumstances that she had exploited earlier would not work as well.

Still...I can't do nothing. Hm...

Her attention shifted towards a different spell, one which was a standard ability for nearly all magic casters present within the Six Scriptures. Closing her eyes, she focused her attention onto the coordinates that was directly above her.

"[Astral View] ." she muttered.

In an instant, her consciousness was no longer dark, but was instead replaced by the senses one could perceive if they were at the Cathedral's entrance. The sight that she was greeted with would be a shocking one.

"That man...is the Golden King...Gilgamesh...!" muttered Gakutenshou slowly, its voice shaking with a combination of emotions that those around it could not fathom.

To Gakutenshou, its creator was a venerated being who had not only served as its master, but a man whose power and knowledge was vast and unfathomable as he was honorable. For such a man to acknowledge another as a superior, going so far as giving them the title of 'King' was something that irked the mechanical servant.

However, what it considered even more important than its personal thoughts and desires was the explicit orders of its master. If he along with his companions had held such opinions of the man before them, then everything that their master toiled for unto his final breaths could be in jeopardy.

This it could not allow...

"Oh? Doll, though you speak my name...yet you do not demonstrate the proper understanding that it entails."

With a wave, more golden ripples opened around him as the blades of numerous weapons flowed forward, all of them pointing towards the mechanical beast.

"However, as a reward for what little you do know, shall I enlighten you just a little bit?"

Though his direct interactions with other players back in YGGDRASIL were few and far in between all the way until the game's end, there were a few who had managed to catch a glimpse of Gilgamesh and Enkidu's performances against raid bosses which were specifically tailored towards entire parties of players.

The knowledge and capabilities that they expressed in those fights were so extraordinary that when these observers posted about such matters onto various forums, their claims would be met with great skepticism if not outright hilarity.

This would be the general consensus until an exploration party sent out by [World Searcher] had accidentally stumbled upon an ongoing battle against a new, singular, World Enemy whitest exploring the deepest parts of an expansion pack for Asgard which was previously thought to be uncharted.

It would be from their records that the title of [Golden King] would first find its origins unofficially, until the events of the tournament following soon after which elevated said title into the annuals of modern legend.

So famous was this title, that it was doubtful that there was anyone within YGGDRASIL's virtual community after this event that didn't know of both the title and the man that possessed it.

Of course, Gakutensoku's master and his companions were no different.

With a wave, eight of those weapons shot forward towards the beast as if they were projectiles, each with the monstrous speeds that had routed the defenses of the Theocracy earlier.

Gakutensoku reacted of course, and circles of magic began to form around the beast.

"[Wall of Protection from Arrows] !" The very terrain around it began to change as the ground raised itself up around Gakutensoku and subsequently, Soaring Death into a dome like structure. At a closer glance, once could see that the newly created barrier was enchanted beyond its normal capabilities by magic as well.

The barrier seemingly worked against five of the weapons which stabbed into the barrier but stopped after that. The sixth weapon, a hammer that looked to be made from the remains of a large beast collided with the beast's spell.

As a great boom reverberated as a result of this collision, cracks began to spread throughout the dome before the entire construct fell apart. Two more swords remained, leaving Gakutensoku no choice but to attempt to intercept them.

The tail behind the beast extended, reaching forward to deflect an all too familiar halberd that flew forward. With a swing directly towards the weapon, a cracking sound was felt before part of Gakutensoku's mechanical tail was cleaved off, [Black Wolf's Halberd] stabbed into the ground next to it.

The final arrow, coated by a spinning vortex of water around it, was already upon the creature. With its tail out of commission, the beast reared its arm towards [Aqua Spiral], intending to deflect the attack head on.

Upon contact, Gakutensoku could only watch as its limb was shredded apart by a weapon which it had thought to be resistant to thanks to the innate magical defenses that it possessed.

As the weapon made its impact, all of the blades which were stabbed into various locations around Gakutensoku dissipated into specks of golden dust, leaving nothing behind but the results of their carnage.

The mechanical beast stood defiant nonetheless, and though its wounds were seemingly severe, it stood its ground. Soaring Death who was behind the creature, looked around, seeing the damage that had been done to both her surroundings and the guardian deity which protected her, she shuddered.

Gakutensoku meanwhile, did not care for the damage it had sustained. Its limbs were not counted as separate entities, healing would be of no concern as a single spell would suffice.

"[Greater Regeneration]."

With the magic cast, the torn parts and arms began to repair themselves at an incredibly fast rate, with new mechanical parts seemingly manifesting off of the damaged ones. Gilgamesh simply watched without care as the mechanical creature returned to its initial conditions.

Without warning, a spinning razor shot forward from underneath the creature's head, seemingly straight towards the Golden King's head with a speed not unlike the latter's attacks.

The razor spun forward but instead of heading towards its initial course, it flew back like a boomerang, intercepting a simple blade which had been shot from a golden ripple behind them, an arrow which would have impaled straight into the back of its master's head.

"...Doll, had you had stayed your course, perhaps you may have obtained my head then and there. Is the loyalty you have towards your masters lacking?" asked Gilgamesh who was amused at the spectacle before him.

"...My mission has always been clear. Though your actions have been hostile...I shall continue to serve the will of my deceased master to the best of my ability nonetheless."

"Hm? Does your mission not entail you to slay me where I stand? I have exercised my will to its fullest without care for neither the mongrels here nor the ones that serve as your masters. Is it not your duty to protect the lands and people founded upon their efforts?"

As Gilgamesh asked this, the machine paused, leaving the rest of the Theocracy's spectators to wonder how it would respond.

"If I may say something-" muttered Raymond before a look of contempt faced towards him.

"I did not give you permission to speak mongrel."

Though no weapons were fired, Raymond could feel the bloodlust present within the man's voice. He kept his head down, worried as to how the mechanical servant was going to respond.

Gakutensoku, a servant which had once served the Great Ones personally...please I beg of you...do not give into your anger...!

The automaton was silent for a few moments, but it then faced the Golden King head on and responded slowly. "My mission is to protect the legacy of my master. Should I fight you with the intention of incapacitating the threat before me, I would do nothing but endanger both my master's legacy and myself."

"Should I overstep my bounds and fall here, who shall fulfill this duty?"

Soaring Death watched silently as the mechanical servant replied with its answer. She had always known that Gakutensoku held little care for the current state of affairs in the world, opting only to fulfill its duty solemnly, just as it did for all the previous heads of the Danzo bloodline.

She had known Gakutensoku since she was a child, and right now, she was its 'master'. If there was anyone who could force its hand right now, it would be her. However, as she watched her guardian say those words, she could see that in spite of its mechanical functions, it only held the best of intentions. Thus, she did not say anything.

"Oh? Then what if I were to decree the death of that mongrel behind you?"

In response, the mechanical beast replied without hesitation, "Then I shall take her and flee. Even if you were to usurp all that my master and his friends possess, so long as our lives and wills persist, so too will our opportunity."

"Thus, would you rather conquer the meager lands of another and in return, be faced with unending opposition against a false king, or cease your actions and create a worthy kingdom with your own strength?"

Gilgamesh was silent for a moment upon hearing the beast's reply before bursting out in laughter. "Fuhahaha...this King will admit, I did not expect such words from a simple doll. You do prove a point, however..."

"...To threaten the King is a crime worthy of death."

As he declared those words, everything changed.

Before there were only so many of those ripples in the air which surrounded the Golden King, but in an instant, the very sky above the Capital shifted into a golden hue.

The golden sky began ripple and from within the distortions that began to form emerged the tips of countless weapons. Among them were spears, swords, axes, and weapons whose forms they did not even recognize were seen, all pointed downwards towards them.

Each weapon was unique, possessing an unearthly quality, some surrounded by magical auras while others held a powerful presence that was no less inferior to the strongest of the Theocracy's treasures. Even a single one would have been a unique and priceless artifact, weapons more than worthy to be wielded by heroes etched into the very legends themselves.

Right now, hundreds if not thousands of these blades threatened to rain down upon Kami Miyako as if each one were but the droplets of a storm. Such a concept was completely foreign to even those of the Cardinals and Black Scripture, much less the common soldiers and mages who saw the sight above.

"Im...Impossible..."

"T-That's just..."

"Oh gods...oh gods no..."

The mutterings of the surrounding guards that were still alive alongside the disbelief shared between both the remaining cardinals and the Black Scripture members filled the air as they stared up upon the sight above them.

Around the capital, the collective disbelief persisted as Kami Miyako's inhabitants witnessed the sky of blades which hung above them like that of an executioner's blade.

Those who had some awareness in danger, whether they be mages, priests, or soldiers, all felt the immense pressure that was being exerted upon them. The animals meanwhile, fared much worse as livestock began to panic and ram at their pens while the trained creatures which served as part of the Theocracy's military might were frozen in place with fear.

Panic arose and spread like a plague as gasps, screams, cries, prayers, and whimpers begun to sound throughout capital, the full realization of what they witnessed beginning to sink in. In spite of this however, no one dared to move for as soon as those weapons descended, there would be nowhere safe.

"Doll, the amusement that you have provided me with your jest, I shall hold off on your execution for now. However...the state of this so called 'strongest human nation' is an insult to my presence. If it were not for the collective ignorance of your dwelling, I would have rid myself of this eyesore...but rejoice, for in my infinite mercy, I have decided upon a role you all may yet still play."

As the Golden King said this, his voice began to boom, its volume and intensity surpassing that of any normal man as all who were present in the capital heard his words.

"Thus mongrels, I shall impart upon you all my wisdom; Know that I am the King, the Man who has transcended realms, the Man who holds all the treasures of the world! Know that I am Gilgamesh, the King of Man who shall rebuild all lands, regardless of their status, into a garden worthy of my splendor! This shall be the King's decree!"

"In time, I shall retake and rebuild what is mine. Though you all are but mongrels, you may yet still serve a purpose. Thus my first declaration shall be this; spread this decree notify your kin of my plans. As the first country to hear of my plans, as King I shall permit your audience as I carry out my rites."

His attention then turned straight towards Gakutensoku. "Of course, the fate of this rabble that you call the legacy of your masters shall be no different. But I shall permit its existence until my garden is near its completion. Be honored, for you all shall see the splendor and brilliance that only the epitome of Man is capable of!"

"And finally, should any object to my decree...then they can come and personally face the might of my treasury!"

Panic began to ensue in the hearts of the denizens below as the implications of Gilgamesh's words became clear, but the rain of death did not come. Instead the Golden King's head jerked up. With a wave, the golden ripples which blocked out the sky disappeared along with the weapons housed within.

Above the skies, clouds dispersed as a familiar figure descended, the winds produced by the feathered constructs which now adorned their back shooting downward. Enkidu landed softly next to Gilgamesh, their wings dissipating into pale specks.

As soon as they landed, Enkidu first turned their attention to the Theocracy's denizens. Once they saw the expressions that they wore in addition to the extent that Gil had opened his treasury, it became apparent to them what the Golden King had done.

"My apologies Gil, it looked like you were in the middle of something so I didn't want to interfere."

"Hmph, it is of no concern. I presume your business with the mongrel girl is done?"

Without any indication or word, [Presence Detection] activated, and Enkidu immediately became aware of every individual that was currently present within the capital, including the one which was scrying their current surroundings.

Seeing the latter's lack of a reaction, Enkidu sighed in turn. "I suppose I am. Then I suppose you're done here as well?"

"I've made my decree already. Whether or not they heed my word will decide their fates. Until then, let us begin our preparations. For starters, a simple throne such as this will not do."

With that the Golden King turned around back towards the golden throne that was still floating above them. Enkidu however, did not miss the spark of intent present within his expression which was largely absent during the months prior.

Without another word, Enkidu took one final look at the Theocracy's Capital before turning around and joining Gilgamesh. With that, Vimana's emerald wings lit up and expanded before the golden aircraft soared out of sight.

It had not even been a day since the two had graced the Slane Theocracy with his presence, and the one that the Cardinals, Scripture members, and now even the citizenry knew as Gilgamesh had shattered their capital's defenses, leaving the capital in ruins.

There were simply no words that could be said to express the collective shock that was present.

It wasn't until a familiar figure appearing that Raymond and some of the other Black Scripture members turned their sights away from the sky. Zesshi teleported herself out of the labyrinth now that the calamity was over, having seen and heard everything that had transpired earlier.

Raymond quickly opened his mouth to say some words, but the girl simply shook her head with frustration and what the former could see was a tinge of anger.

With a sigh, Raymond realized that thinking any further on what had happened was meaningless. "Alright, any survivors capable, lets move the injured to safety. As for the dead, get them ready for preservation. Relay my orders to the rest of the knights around the capital, they are to keep peace among the citizenry. We'll get to restoration and other matters later..."

Hearing these orders snapped most of the remaining soldiers out of their trance as their training kicked in. Immediately, they nodded and got to work though it was easy to tell that their movements were jittery and hasty, and would likely remain so for the next few days.

The colors of magic began to light up as the few casters which were not part of the previous assault brought fourth various low tier spells in an effort to carry the injured and dead. Those of the Black Scripture who could followed suit, lessening the burden of the former's work.

Not even the Cardinals themselves were exempt from this, as Maximilian, Ginedine, and even Raymond himself did what they could do to help.

Meanwhile, everyone in Kami Miyako, whether they be citizen or slave, knight or priest, peasant or merchant, they all had their own opinions on the matter, but none of them dared to utter a word. If they did, that would be acknowledging the extent of what they witnessed once more in full.

Though the capital fell into an eerie silence, the Theocracy and its people would not forget. For today would be the beginning of a new era, one which would herald fourth the might of powers not seen since the end of an ancient age.

One Month Later

"My lord, I humbly ask for your permission to enter." a knock followed by a gruff but familiar voice caused King Ramposa III to turn his attention away from his current affairs.

"No need to be so formal Warrior-Captain, please come in."

Hearing the King's words, Gazeff entered, his hands holding a collection of papers. The King got up from his desk and greeted the captain with a handshake, before gesturing for the latter to put down the papers that he held.

After taking a moment to scan through these documents himself, Ramposa finally turned back to the Warrior-Captain.

"I see...so the teams that we've sent out have returned. Did they all come back safely?" Though Ramposa himself had not been to the hills, the reputation that it possessed preceded it.

"They all returned without any issues, yes. If you would my lord, the adventurers mentioned a few specific scenarios that they thought were strange."

Gazeff turned towards a particular page which held said information. Ramposa read the documents themselves, his eyes expressing surprise. If what was written here was true, then the very borders that currently existed would change in the foreseeable future.

"The remaining demi-human races seemed to have regrouped into dwellings among their respective species that some of the adventurers were able to spot. The ones which are more familiar with the area claim that regardless of race, their numbers have been reduced significantly." said Gazeff.

"From what they could gather through their interactions with one of the demi-humans, this all seemed to have happened overnight too. A case like this is unprecedented, and I'm sure we're not the only ones who know of this by now. There was also another finding that I'd like you to see..."

Gazeff then turned the pages again, this time towards a sketch of a particular wooden cabin, though the intricacy of its structures and its sheer size suggested that the dwelling was no mere shelter.

"This was found in the middle of what used to be the hunting grounds of the Bafolk. When the adventurers found the area, they noted that the cabin itself was made from hundreds of trees in the surroundings, the amount of labor needed to not only gather the materials, but to craft something to this extent would have likely numbered into the hundreds."

"But there's no trace of such a thing right, Warrior-Captain?"

"Indeed. One of the adventurers present was able to detect a lingering trace of magic present around the cabin and its surrounding areas, though the type of magic in question was one they could not identify."

"Hm...a dwelling like this is not one crafted for demi-humans. As for the magic..."

Ramposa was well aware of magic and its aid in structural affairs, especially in regards to construction. Issues such as materials, storage, and transport were but some of the many factors which magic could address.

However, even then, magic had its limits. The casting ability and endurance of a mage was fickle, so much so that even the Baharuth Empire with its extensive opportunities provided by its renowned Imperial Magical Academy had difficulty producing mages who could proficiently wield magic above the 3rd Tier. This was not even taking into account the complexities of individual spells increasing exponentially compared to the difficulty of the tasks they sought to tackle.

Thus, magic in this field was often relegated to the more simple jobs such as carrying materials. However, in this case, whoever had built the cabin was most likely unbound by these limitations in spite of the surroundings, individuals who would have likely possessed abilities that were extraordinary at the very least.

"My lord, if I may have your permission, could I also bring up a rumor that has been spreading? I believe that it is relevant to the current matter."

"A rumor? Hm...If you believe it to be of importance...then do tell, Warrior-Captain."

"As of a month ago, there were whispers claiming that two individuals descended upon the Theocracy's Capital atop a dragon of gold and confronted their forces there."

Ramposa's eyes widened at these words, before chuckling in disbelief. "With all due say, I do not believe that to be possible..."

The Slane Theocracy was the oldest as well as arguably the strongest human nation on the continent. Though the territory that they controlled was not the largest out of the Kingdoms, the forces that they had were renowned for their discipline, strength, and zeal.

Though their strict religious doctrine had resulted in many enemies and uneasy relationships with their fellow human nations, this spoke volumes of the military might that the possessed. Their forces coupled with the resource-rich lands that they occupied meant that laying siege on the Theocracy would be a nigh impossible feat.

"I cannot say I disagree my lord, but I do believe them to be relevant nonetheless. The source of these rumors are apparently from within the Theocracy itself."

"Truly...? Hm...from what I know, the populace of the Theocracy are known for their devotion, yet I have no doubts that a rumor such as this would be heretical..." muttered Ramposa. "Warrior-Captain, do these rumors speak of the result of this assault?"

Gazeff nodded. "That is actually the next part. Apparently the very sky of the Theocracy itself was replaced by the blades of weapons which numbered as many as the stars themselves. The man who caused this event had called himself Gilgamesh, a self proclaimed King of Man and proclaimed his intentions to conquer the world in his name."

Upon hearing this, Ramposa chuckled. It was clear that he was now taking this even less seriously than he had previously. "I see. Well Warrior Captain, is there anything else to these...accounts?"

"Yes. According to some, after the man made his intentions clear, the man's companion had returned from their fight with part of the Theocracy's forces, descending with pure white wings and reconciling before leaving atop the dragon of gold once more."

As Ramposa listened to the rest of the Warrior Captain's accounts, he let out a sigh. "My apologies Warrior-Captain. In honesty, I had initially believed there was a degree of legitimacy to this rumor, but now it sounds like little more than a fable sung by a bard."

Gazeff was upset at his lord's disbelief, but he knew that this response was only normal. "Perhaps, but regardless, if it was but a bard's tale, I do not believe that the rumor would have been perpetuated to such an extent, and in such a consistent manner as well. I believe that there is some credence to it."

"I see...if that is the case, then what about the Theocracy? Have they done anything in response to these rumors?"

"No, not that I know of."

"I would not think that the Theocracy would react in such a manner if there were any truth in the matter, Gazeff. As you have seen yourself, the Theocracy is comprised mostly of religious fanatics both in its citizenry and government. Something like this would no doubt be heresy in their eyes. Even if there is some truth to this rumor, at best it would be little more than a poor attempt at a false flag in an effort to lure out potential threats to the Theocracy."

"...Perhaps. It would not be out of the question for them to do something like this considering the discoveries we made a month prior..."

As Gazeff said this, he thought back to the fateful day where he had been ambushed by the now non-existent Sunlight Scripture.

"However...though it would not even be a year prior where I would have I agreed with your sentiments, I do not believe that to be the case here."

As Ramposa looked up at the Warrior-Captain's expression, he smiled. "Your encounter with Ainz Ooal Gown, perhaps you believe this may have something to do with that?"

"Indeed, though it isn't just that either. Ever since that phenomenon that occurred months ago, more and more figures of powers I believed were only in legend have begun appearing. After all, that hero Momon as well as the demon Jaldabaoth, they both had only made their appearance two months ago no?"

This was something Ramposa could not deny. "Indeed. However Warrior Captain, what are you trying to imply?"

"There are individuals out there, previously unknown yet possessing powers that could rival that of a nation's. We already know of at least a handful of them that fit this criteria, would it be that surprising that two more emerged? As for what I am implying my lord..."

"Most likely, war is coming. Whenever individuals of such powers appear, conflict is inevitable. Whether it be the Thirteen Heroes and their crusade against the Evil Deities, or the Eight Greed Kings of legend and their war against the Dragon Lords of past...that is what my instinct tells me right now."

Ramposa once again, could not deny these claims either. Though the extent of the powers that the Eight Greed Kings possessed was an unknown, the existence of powerful individuals such as the High Councilor of the Argland Council State as well as various other bloodlines led credence to the extent of their influence.

No matter how powerful an entity, whether it be a nation comprised of individuals or a singular force, the intrinsic desire to prosper and expand was within all beings. As Ramposa pondered about such a fact, he found himself more and more inclined towards the Warrior-Captain's words.

"I see...this is troubling news then." muttered the King.

The last time a conflict on this level of scale was waged, the entire continent was engulfed in war against the Evil Deities of legend, reshaping landscapes and borders completely with the downfall of past alongside the emergence of new nations including the very kingdom that Ramposa currently ruled over.

In spite of this, it was only thanks to the efforts of the Thirteen Heroes and their united efforts versus the Evil Deities which prevented the outright eradication of humanity. Yet as it stood now, did such a force currently exist?

In fact, even if the best case scenario occurred, should a conflict of such magnitude emerge once again, what is to say that their nation would remain?

Gazeff nodded solemnly. "Indeed. With our annual wars against the Baharuth Empire as well as the Theocracy's treachery, we are in dire straits. However, thanks to the actions of Momon as well as your brilliant maneuver, we may yet have a chance, my lord."

Ramposa agreed. Though the demonic invasion instigated by Jaldabaoth had caused the loss of numerous lives as well as damage to the capital, it had ultimately resulted in the nigh eradication of the Eight Fingers' influence on the Kingdom in addition to the weakening of the Nobility Faction due to their inaction during said invasion.

"Another suggestion then, Warrior-Captain?" asked Ramposa.

"It is nothing that you are not aware of already. All I can suggest now is that we form closer ties with the three Adamantite Teams. As you have already set the precedence with Momon-dono's case, I believe this may be possible with the others."

Hearing this, Gazeff watched as the king nodded in agreement before pondering on something else. "I'll see what I can do. However, I thank you for your warning Warrior-Captain."

"No my lord, thank you for listening to the words of someone such as I." replied Gazeff. "Is there anything else you wish of me?"

Ramposa shook his head. "Hm...no, nothing. Please, just enjoy the rest of your day Warrior-Captain." With a silent nod, Gazeff bowed before leaving. Ramposa then turned his attention back to the papers that the former had given him.

He then thought about the current options that they had. As it currently stood, the Kingdom's relations with Darkness and Blue Rose was notably good due to Momon's position as a national hero and his daughter's role as a prominent employer for the latter.

Red Drop meanwhile, who were the oldest and most loyal of the Adamantite teams were compliant in their goals and had finished the task that he had given them at the Argland Council State a while back, relaying the good news to him personally.

If relations continue to proceed smoothly with the adventurers and the Council approves of the treaty...then perhaps we may have a chance after all...

With a sigh of relief, the elderly king relaxed himself. Out of curiosity, he turned his attention back to the Warrior-Captain's documents, looking back at the accounts of Gilgamesh and his companion's actions back at the Slane Theocracy before chuckling.

How ironic...a man declaring himself to be a King with a non-human companion laying siege to the Theocracy. Then again...

If the Nobility Faction as well as the rest of the kingdom found out what he planned, there would be dissident to say the very least. However, now was the only opportunity that he had and if what the Warrior-Captain said was right, then the decision he had made would be even more crucial in the coming years.

All was for the kingdom, and if conflict was necessary to remove the scourge, then so be it.

"Sorry for calling you here so late gramps. Good evening." said Jircniv as he greeted Fluder whom had just entered the his living quarters. It was rather late in the evening and most of the empire was preparing to sleep yet the piles of documents awaiting the former's attention spoke volumes of the Bloody Emperor's workload.

"It's of no concern. Was there something you needed?" replied the court magician.

"Hm...? You seem a bit...annoyed for better or worse. Would you like to talk about it?"

Fluder upon hearing this, let out a sigh before relenting. "...As expected Jir, nothing escapes your vision does it?"

"No need for the praise gramps, in all honesty I'm just surprised. You were never one who minded long hours after all. So what's on your mind? I haven't seen you for almost a month now so did something happen in during that time?"

Fluder paused for a moment, considering his options. The man before him was almost akin to a son to him, and had looked out for his interest countless times. Seeing as this was the case, he decided to simply confess what was going on, or at least a part of it.

"No...it was just about a matter that we had spoken about prior." replied Fluder. "Do you remember Arche Eeb Rile Furt, the young mage that I had wished to take as a student?"

"No...it was just about a matter that we had spoken about prior. Do you remember Arche Eeb Rile Furt, the young mage that I had wished to take as a student?"

"Arche...Furt...ah, I remember now. What about her?"

"Wonderful. Would you happen to know where she is right now?" Fluder's eyes widened with anticipation, something which surprised Jircniv.

"Gramps...are you still trying to recruit her? It's already been months has it not? If I recall correctly, she is talented for her age, but surely you have a disciple or two that can match that talent, no?" said Jircniv. "As for where she is, I wish I knew. She left the Merchant's Guild with quite a case."

"Oh...? Could you tell me more about this?" asked Fluder, curious.

"Hm...the case itself was relayed to me by one of the royal accountants but apparently she'd paid off a year's worth of her family's debt with a single payment of platinum coins. After the merchant in question had verified their authenticity before collecting the payment, the Merchant's Guild checked with the Imperial Army for any recent cases of burglary or theft from potential avenues but came up with nothing."

"As a result, they sent men to the Furt Household the next day but found that she had already left. The same men also checked on the headquarters of the Worker Group that she'd worked with and found that the building had been stripped bare, with no one present."

"I see...so that's why she rejected my offer..." muttered Fluder silently.

"Do you know something Gramps?" asked Jircniv in turn.

"Yes. Back then, I had delegated her with the task of investigating the hills and given her the necessary currency in order to pay off her debt as payment. She had returned in just a week before rejecting my offer, giving me back the coins in full. So that was why..."

Jircniv listened for a moment and contemplated on Fluder's words before his doubts began to show. "Hm...you say that she was able to travel to and return from Abelion Hills in just a week's time? Are you sure she even went to the hills in the first place?"

Fluder nodded. "Indeed. For safe measure, I had given the girl a medallion of mine whose location I was able to track. Before the connection that I had with it was lost, I saw that she had traveled to the hills in earnest. As for how she'd return...that I do not know."

Though Jircniv himself had never made the trip, he estimated that the time it would take to travel from the Baharuth Empire to the Slane Theocracy, which was the closest of the human nations that shared a border with Abelion Hills, would take at least two days via flight provided all ideal conditions were met, with upwards of four and sometimes five days should one travel via horseback.

"Fluder, would it be within your capabilities to teleport yourself directly to the hills?" asked Jircniv.

After a brief pause, Fluder shook his head. "...No. While I would be able to reach the outskirts of Katze Plains, I'd likely exhaust nearly all my mana in doing so and would require a day's rest at most before I can try again."

"And you said that the girl traveled there through legitimate means?"

'Indeed. She had traveled the roads which paved straight to the Imperial Fortress near Katze Plains before going through El-Rantel and El-Pespel, traveling southwards towards the hills from there, taking a total of almost five days."

"Then a return within a week's time would be impossible no?"

"Y-Yes, under normal circumstances...this wouldn't be possible..." Fluder coughed before resettling on his words. "Perhaps I should have asked her about it more in depth then, but I was just astonished at her appearance that..."

"Gramps, you know just as I know that there would be only one thing that would evoke such a response from you. Let me guess, she met a benefactor of some sort there that helped her?"

Fluder once again, could not deny the truth in Jircniv's deductions. "...Yes, when the girl had returned, she said that she had seen a magic caster there whom aided her. Though the task that Your Majesty had given me in order to investigate the individual by the name of Ainz Ooal Gown had yielded no results prior, I've redoubled my efforts over the past months as a result of this revelation."

"Did you find out anything new then?"

"...I'm afraid not, Your Majesty. Though there were a few abnormalities here and there, none of them were good enough leads."

"Ah, that reminds me. Have you heard the rumor that has been circulating around the Theocracy lately?"

As Fluder shook his head, Jircniv then spoke of the accounts that he had heard, as well as the center figure of these rumors, an individual that had called himself Gilgamesh.

"Hm...I do not believe these notions to be at credible at all, Your Majesty." spoke the Court Magician in reply.

The Court Magician had a great deal more knowledge of the Slane Theocracy than most outsiders did. Though the full extent of their country's capabilities were a mystery to him, he knew that many of their mages held a mastery of magic that was on a level which rivaled the best of his disciples.

This was the case, even when disregarding the rumors of individuals within the Theocracy whom were seen as direct descendants of the gods they worshiped, inheriting shards of their overwhelming power.

Even to this day, he had failed to meet even a single one, leading him to question the validity of these claims.

Regardless, to Fluder Paradyne, the Slane Theocracy was a powerful country that the Baharuth Empire and himself still had much to learn from.

"I agree, but like with all rumors, there may be some truth to it. Ainz Ooal Gown alongside his companion was last spotted around the outskirts of the Re-Estize Kingdom with an animosity towards the Theocracy's forces after all, whose to say that they wouldn't retaliate in kind?"

"Regardless, this rumor at the very least, lends more credence towards the existence of this magic caster. Perhaps you should look towards the Theocracy's capital as your next point of interest gramps."

"I see...then I shall take note of your advice Your Majesty, thank you."

"Ah, but before that, how goes the previous task that I had asked of you?"

"Your request to investigate the new adamantite team called [Darkness] right?" Jircniv nodded in turn. "I've already made arrangements with them. By the end of the week, I'll have found out everything that Your Majesty desires to know."

"Good. Though you've been reclusive as of late, you're still on top of things as always gramps. If you'd like, I'll aid you in your efforts after this task. Just ask me for anything you may need, alright?"

"...Very well. Once again, I thank you for your generosity, my darling Jir. I shall see to it that I meet with the adamantite adventurers that you seek as soon as possible."

"Please see to it that you do. Have a good night, gramps."

The Court Magician then left the room without another word, leaving Jircniv back to his own devices. Having talked to Fluder, he found himself now uninterested in the paperwork which laid before him but at the thought of the individuals which had garnered his interest.

"The hero of the Re-Estize Kingdom Momon, the sorcerer Ainz Ooal Gown, and now the self-proclaimed king, Gilgamesh...all of them previously unknown individuals who have made their mark on the world in less than a year...I wonder what kind of connection they have with one another..."

"Pardon my intrusion, but could you two please repeat what you were laughing about earlier?"

As the two Iron ranked adventurers chatted away at a table, they suddenly heard these words. One of them turned around and almost fell out of his chair in shock once he saw who had interrupted them. The other man turned to see what had surprised his friend all too suddenly before he recoiled back as well.

They were met with a large man clad in an all too famous dark armor with two large large swords strapped behind him. Behind this man was a woman of exceptional beauty, one whose presence was simpler yet no less daunting compared to her companion.

"M-Momon-sama?! And Nabe-sama too as well?! O-Our apologies, we did not notice you before!"

"Y-Yes, please, forgive us!"

Upon seeing them, the Iron ranked adventurers literally began to prostate themselves. There was nobody in the Re-Estize Kingdom who had not heard of 'Dark Hero' Momon and 'Beautiful Princess' Nabe, the two heroes who were essential to the repelling of the demonic invasion.

As Momon saw the reaction of the two men, he sighed underneath his armor.

I...I really can't get used to this. Good thing I used those camouflage scrolls earlier...

"No need for apologies, it was me who had interrupted you two earlier." replied Momon. "Anyways, could you please tell me what you two were talking about?"

"Ah, to think you'd be humble even to us lowly Irons, truly you are an inspiration Momon-sama. As for what we were talking about, you mean that ridiculous rumor that has been circulating about the Theocracy?" replied one of the adventurers.

"It's just a bard's ramblings Momon-sama, don't worry about it." added the other. "Apparently a man who called himself Gilgamesh had attacked the Theocracy's capital, causing massive damage to their defenses before flying away on a golden dragon. Ridiculous is it not, haha!"

The two adventurers laughed at the very idea. In the first place, assuming if one even entertained the idea that such a powerful human existed, why would they attack what was essentially the oldest and most pro-human nation on the continent?

In a world filled with monstrous races that could potentially threaten the very existence of humanity as a whole, the very sentiment was ridiculous.

However, the individual known as Momonga had neither laughter nor words. Instead, anger as well as fear began to swell up within his now undead heart. As he felt these emotions, the final words of his friend before his departure from YGGDRASIL echoed back to him once more.

"...This man...was he alone, or was he accompanied by another individual...?" Momon asked slowly, the tone in his voice having clearly shifted.

"H-Huh? W-Well now that you mention it, some say there was another person that had accompanied him. A-Apparently they were some sorta demi-human with wings or something. I-It's pretty ridiculous d-don't you think, M-Momon-sama?"

The atmosphere had clearly shifted into a more awkward one. Nabe however, did not miss the apparent anger that was in her master's voice and glared at the two adventurers. Had she not been in her current predicament, she would have likely killed the two right then and there.

"N-No way, could it be possible that you know them Momon-sama?!" asked another one of the adventurers suddenly.

At around this time, the calming effect that Ainz had become all too familiar with began to course through his body. "...No, its nothing. Nabe, we're leaving."

"Y-Yes...Momon-san."

As the two adventurers walked out, the two adventurers were left dumbfounded.

"W-Well...that happened."

"W-Wait a minute...D-Damn it, I should've asked them for an autograph!"

Momon and Nabe meanwhile, had already left the Adventurer's Guild and were now outside on the busy streets of E-Rantel. The modified [Camouflage] scroll did its work as people strolled by, not realizing that their nation's hero was right in front of them.

"Ain-I mean M-Momon-san...is something the matter...?" asked Nabe.

"Mn...for now, it's nothing. We're done for the day Nabreal, you may return to Nazarick on your own. I'll be joining you shortly."

Seeing that this was an order that was given to her not as Nabe the adventurer, but Nabreal of the Pleiades, she quickly bowed in compliance. "...As you wish, Ainz-sama..."

With a blink, she vanished, leaving Momon behind. Seeing that he was alone now, Momon began to head towards the border of the capital so that he could return as well. As he did this however, he sighed in frustration.

Since his arrival, Momonga had already known that he was not the sole power present in the New World. From the phenomenon that he witnessed upon his arrival to the warrior that had managed to fight and later, evade Shalltear during her mission, to the monstrosity of a tree-like entity which bore an appearance which could only be described as otherworldly being able to fend off the Floor Guardians even if only for a brief moment, this seemingly weak world had it's fair share of legitimate threats.

He's really here...

To the Overlord of Nazarick that was "Ainz Ooal Gown", this was but another scenario that had to be planned for. However, for Momonga who was but a guild-member of [Ainz Ooal Gown] as well as the human that was Suzaki Satoru, this was an opportunity, one which could finally lay to rest his regrets as a Guild Master.

Regrets which he held even as the game he loved so dearly was only minutes away from shutting down.

For in his eyes, the rise of the Golden King known only at the time as Gilgamesh would herald the beginning of the end of the once great heteromorphic guild, [Ainz Ooal Gown].

Author's Note

Hello, let me start off by apologizing for the delay on this chapter. I've been really busy for the past months and this in conjunction with my laziness and Nigel no longer translating the series then had made me really neglect this more than I should have.

Hopefully this chapter was enjoyable and I'll have the next one out soon. Thank you for reading!