Chapter 5, Part 3

Inside the Nazarick’s Treasury Ainz followed Pandora’s Actor to a display cabinet containing about two dozen items.

“I had to rearrange some of the items to create space for these. But I felt the items we’ve obtained from our first real battle in the New World were worthy of being displayed,” Pandora’s Actor explained.

Ainz was nodding in agreement when a familiar item came into his view.

“Oh, who had this one?” He asked curiously while pointing at a statue of a six-armed demon holding a gem in each hand.

“It was found on the fourth seat of the Black Scripture.”

“How nice of them to return it to us. Still, why did they have it? I thought it was held by the Magician Guild in the Re-Estize’s capital,” Ainz wondered.

“The Theocracy must’ve heard about it and had obtained it. I imagine they planned to use it to create some chaos to mask their surprise attack.”

“I guess it’s just one more thing for Neuronist to ask,” Ainz shrugged.

“Regardless, this was a pretty good haul,” Pandora’s Actor said while rubbing his hands. “In addition to the World Item there were also three Divine-Class items, and many relic and legendary items.”

“Show me the Divine-class ones,” Ainz instructed.

“As you command!” Pandora’s Actor replied enthusiastically as he straitened his back and clicked his hills together, though he didn’t actually salute.

“The lance used by the Black Scripture’s Captain: [Cobra’s Bite] – in addition to high damage and other stats appropriate for a level one hundred weapon of its quality, it also has a proc. [Paralyzing Venom] – the first hit reduces stats, while second and third procs will paralyze a target, though a target gains an immunity timer afterward,” Pandora’s Actor explained as he handed the lance to Ainz.

“I see, the plan look makes sense now,” Ainz said while holding the weapon.

In Yggdrasil, a large percentage of top items were crafted rather than boss drops or quest rewards. As such, players had a lot of leeway in how the items would look. Some players even went as far as using data crystal slots for cosmetic purposes, like giving a weapon a glowing effect, etc. Since the top items were difficult to craft, most players wanted such items to look special and fancy.

On the flip side, there was a small number of players who went out of their way to make their top gear look like complete junk – plain designs, old and even seemingly damaged, were the appearances of their choice. Using such items not only reduced the possibility of getting attacked for their gear, but it also meant that any would-be-attacker would get a rude awakening when a noob they attacked turned out to be someone decked in top equipment. The lance in his hands was clearly made by someone from this group.

“What else?” Ainz asked handing the weapon back.

“The ornate armor the Black Scripture’s captain used. [Bulwark of Vitality] – in addition to giving a large boost to one’s health it also has a [Cheat Death] effect,” Pandora’s Actor explained.

“Wearer will ignore a killing blow and will instead regain ten percent of their health,” Ainz nodded. As someone specializing in death magic, he was intimately familiar with [Cheat Death] and considered this effect to be extremely annoying.

“Lastly, there is this ring, which was worn by Zesshi. [Always Another Way] – it creates a clone of the user, retaining their stats and abilities. While the clone lives, the user becomes invisible and immune to detection. However, using it costs experience,” Pandora’s actor explained as he handed the ring to Ainz.

“I suppose an experience cost would explain why she didn’t use it during the fight,” Ainz said while examining the item. “Then, what about the Downfall of Castle and Country?” Ainz asked about the main item.

“Just as you thought, the item can cast a mind-control on any… Is everything alright, Ainz-sama?” Pandora’s Actor interrupted himself when he realized Ainz wasn’t listening to him.

“Blue Rose members had awakened,” Ainz said absentmindedly. “But it’s weird. I didn’t get a [Message] telling me that, it’s like, the information just came to me. How can this be?” He continued to wonder out loud.

Pandora’s Actor began to contemplate this strange incident but wasn’t able to offer an explanation.

“Strange, I never had such an experience before. It’s not a hunch, I am completely certain that Blue Rose members had indeed awakened. But, how did I obtain this information?” Ainz continued to wonder.

About half a minute later, he finally shook his head and waved his hand dismissively.

“I’ll figure it out later. Now, about the dress, you were about to say that it could mind-control anyone?” Ainz returned to the topic at hand.

“Yes. However, it can only control one target at any given time. Additionally, it costs experience to activate it.”

“Experience cost, huh? But, the humans of the Slane Theocracy were able to use it, even though losing the appropriate amount of experience would reduce most humans to ash. And, we also know that not everyone can use it, as it took the Slane Theocracy a while to find a new user,” Ainz felt his non-existent heart beat faster.

“Most likely the user possesses a talent that allows them to ignore the experience cost when activating items,” Pandor’s Actor offered.

“Yes. But more importantly, it implies that the Slane Theocracy has a way to identify talents,” Ainz added.

Talents can bring enormous benefits to Nazarick, but identifying them is extremely hard. Even making kids try out all sort of activities would only uncover a small portion. Talents like Enfirea’s, which allowed him to use any item, could only be discovered by accident. And some, such as a talent to ignore experience cost when using an item, couldn’t be discovered at all since trying to activate even a low-level item without such a talent would kill an average human. But, now… Ainz’s mind raced as he clenched his skeletal hand.

He was just about to order for the Cardinals to be brought before him once again when his emotional suppression activated. With his excitement dampened, Ainz could think clearly again. There is no need to rush things, he told himself. I can always use [Wish Upon a Star] to obtain the talent to ignore experience cost on item activation. And learning Theocracy’s method is just a matter of time. I should focus on my meeting with Blue Rose for now.

“Tell Neuronist our thoughts, and make sure she knows to ask about this subject in earnest,” Ainz instructed Pandora’s Actor. “I am going to meet Blue Rose now.”

“Do you require my help, father?” Pandora’s Actor asked.

“I should handle it myself,” Ainz shook his head, declining the offer.

While he very much wished to avoid this meeting, there were too many variables for how the conversation could go. As such Ainz worried that, under certain circumstances, Pandora’s Actor wouldn’t be able to respond adequately.

Ainz used [Taleportation] to move to the ninth floor, where a group of Eight Edge Assassins waited for him, before using [Gate] to travel to the sixth floor. He got a bit of a laugh seeing how perturbed the Eight Edge Assassins were at the lack of ceilings for them to hang from. Though they quickly adapted, using the surrounding tree branches instead. Still chuckling to himself, Ainz changed into his Momon appearance and began to walk toward the Lizardmen village.

As he walked, his mind raced over the possible way his meeting with Blue Rose could go. During the examination of Blue Rose members, it was discovered that Evileye was actually a vampire, which surprised and excited Ainz. His collector spirit was aroused – was she a natural vampire or was she turned? Additionally, if she was turned, could the process be repeated? An army of vampires could bolster Nazarick’s forces. On the other hand, this discovery also presented a problem for Ainz.

The ring Evileye wears masks her undead nature, which means she doesn’t want to be discovered. Then, how should I act? Should I call her out or is it better to pretend I don’t know? Ainz agonized over this question while he walked. It wasn’t until his destination came into view that he made his choice. Then, my goals are: retain Blue Rose’s goodwill, get information from Evileye about Armoreth, and solidify my position.

His mind made up, he walked briskly through the greenery toward the village. Once there, he surveyed the surroundings, locating the Blue Rose members in the nearby apple orchard. The women had noticed him too and moved to meet him.

“I am glad to see that all of you are doing fine. I guess the Sorcerer King’s assessment of your condition was correct,” Momon greeted them.

“It’s all thanks to you. Without your intervention we would share the same fate as the others,” Lakyus said with a half-smile.

“I hope you won’t blame me for choosing to depart back then,” Momon said.

“It would be quite hypocritical of us to blame you for that, seeing how we are alive because of your choice,” Evileye replied after looking at the other members.

“I wish there was another way. Alas, even if we ignore the agreement Ainz and I made, if I chose to stay and fight, it wouldn’t change anything. At best, I would just fall with the rest, and at worst, my defeat would cause the residents of E-Rantel to rebel, forcing the Sorcerer King to drown the rebellion in blood,” Momon sounded apologetic and regretful.

“We understand, it was a tough choice to make,” Lakyus nodded. “By the way, do you know what happened in the arena? I am reluctant to admit it, but all of us were knocked unconscious early in the fight.”

“The strike force was defeated,” Momon didn’t dance around the issue.

The members of Blue Rose exchanged glances before Lakyus asked the question they were all eager to know.

“Then, what will happen to us?”

“I was assured that you will be sent free. However, certain events are taking place in the outside world, so, for the time being, you’ll remain here, in this village,” Momon sought to alleviate their fears.

“Certain events like what?” Gagaran asked curiously.

“The Slane Theocracy is about to fall,” Ainz replied shocking the adventurers.

Even though it was expected that the Sorcerer King would retaliate against such a blatant act of aggression, the fact that Momon spoke of it as a done deal made them shudder.

“I doubt the Theocracy would surrender just because two of their Scriptures were demolished,” Evileye shook her head. “Does the Sorcerer King plan to slaughter his way to the capital and confront the Cardinals?”

Momon shook his head before replying: “The conquest will be done by the Baharuth Empire’s legions, using teleportation spells to quickly move them in position. As for the Cardinals, they are already here.”

“What?! What do you mean?” Lakyus yelled losing her cool.

“You should understand, the Sorcerer King didn’t just prepare for the battle vs the strike force. He had also made preparations for his retaliation,” Momon explained.

“Then, what about the Re-Estize Kingdom?” Gagaran asked.

“Was the Kingdom involved in this attack?” Momon said looking at her.

“What she means is our involvement could be interpreted as such, after all, we are an adventurer’s group from the Kingdom,” Lakyus answered, while Tia punched Gagaran and made a face at her that clearly said “shut up.”

“Ah, you don’t have to worry about that,” Momon assured her.

“Momon-sama, do you know what happened to Climb?” Evileye asked after a short pause.

“He is fine. From what I heard, he will be returned to his mistress, Princess Renner, unharmed,” Momon said.

“Unharmed? May I ask why?” Lakyus asked after a brief consideration.

“Something about a dog being blameless for following commands of its master,” Momon shrugged.

Lakyus frowned after hearing his reply, she wanted to follow up with another question but chose not to. Does it mean he will retaliate against Princess Renner instead? Lakyus wondered as her heart became heavy with worry for her friend.

“Um, do you know what happened to Brain Unglaus?” Gagaran asked, interrupting the heavy atmosphere that followed Momon’s reply.

“It seems like he was turned into a vampire,” Momon said.

“A vampire?!” Evileye exclaimed, her eyes quickly darting towards Momon’s helm.

“That… that is unfortunate. He was one of the best fighters in the Kingdom,” Gagaran sounded regretful.

“It might actually turn out well for him,” Momon said. “I understand, his goal was to become stronger. Now, as a vampire, he can do so, no longer being restrained by time,” he continued in response to the stares he received from Blue Rose members.

“I guess. Though, he will now also have the time to come to regret his endless lifespan,” Evileye said in a heavy tone.

The silence once more reigned supreme, as Blue Rose members contemplated whether or not being turned into a vampire was a blessing or a curse. Momon was the one who interrupted their thoughts.

“If there is nothing else, I would like to discuss something with Evileye-dono,” Momon said.

“Ah?! Um, what is it?” Evileye asked as she felt her non-existent heart sink.

“Mm, it’s somewhat private. Should we take a walk?” Momon asked, motioning toward the far side of the orchard.

“Y-yes,” Evileye replied nervously.

Under the eyes of the rest of Blue Rose, Momon and Evileye walked away from the group. After they moved away a few dozen yards, Momon spoke.

“As I mentioned, the matter I wish to speak to you about is rather private. I am unsure if you wish for the other members to know it,” he began.

Oh, no, he definitely knows, and I was just beginning to relax, Evileye thought as her undead heart ached.

“I don’t know how, but the Sorcerer King has figured out the truth. Now that they know the true identity… I am sure you understand what the consequences will be,” Momon said carefully watching her every reaction.

To his disappointment, Evileye not only maintained her composure and didn’t blurt out anything, but it even appeared as if she didn’t understand what he was trying to say. I guess cry out the name of the one controlling Armoreth in surprise was just wishful thinking on my part. More direct approach it is.

“Now that they know Sir Armoreth was just a puppet…” Momon began.

“Oh, that,” Evileye said with a sigh of relief. “I mean, that is very bad, uh, yes, very bad.”

As expected, she already knew it, Ainz thought.

“Evileye-dono, is there something else you thought they’ve learned? You seem to be worrying about another matter?” Momon asked.

“Ah, no, no. I am not hiding anything, not at all. I guess it’s just a lot of news to take in, it’s making me act weird, I apologize Momon-sama,” she sought to assure him while speaking unnaturally fast.

“Mm, if you say so. Back to Sir Armoreth, as I was saying, now that they know it was just a puppet, they will no doubt seek to retaliate,” Momon tried once again.

“But, there is no proof that he was controlling Sir Armoreth. Even if the Sorcerer King claims he did, such a claim would be view with suspicion. Would the Sorcerer Kingdom attack the Argland Council State under such conditions?” Evileye asked as she tried to calm down her excitement at the fact that Momon didn’t learn of her identity.

She knows the one behind Armoreth and it’s a “he,” Ainz thought triumphantly.

“Probably not. But, you should be aware of how crafty the Sorcerer King is. They could use this incident to create a larger conflict, one that would give them a casus belli. Especially if the other party isn’t aware that he was found out,” Ainz led her on.

“I, I should warn him,” Evileye nodded firmly.

“Since we don’t know how long you’ll have to remain here, it may not be fast enough. In fact, it’s quite possible that the Sorcerer King plans to keep you here while they instigate a larger conflict,” Momon said.

“Then, what should we do? He is not the type that would shy away from open provocation, especially if he doesn’t suspect foul play,” Evileye sounded anxious.

“I could warn him. But, would he survive a fight against the Sorcerer King and his servants?” Momon asked curiously.

“Both parties are too powerful for me to judge. But you are right, if you warn him, then he can take the appropriate steps to avoid such a conflict,” Evileye said.

“Then, where would I find him?” Momon asked, cursing at Evileye for not saying the name of this being.

“Um, although, he is a Councilor of the Argland Council State, the Platinum Dragon Lord actually resides in the flying city, located south of the Slane Theocracy,” Evileye said.

“The one used by the Eight Greed Kings long ago?” Ainz asked, trying not to let his elation show in his voice.

“Yes. He has been guarding the items left by the Eight Greed Kings for centuries, which is why he normally uses his remotely-controlled armor to travel around,” Evileye nodded.

“I see. It’s a long trek down there, but I should be able to warn him. But, would he believe me? Especially if you are yet to leave this place?” Momon asked.

“Hmm, tell him that I sent you, and if he doubts your words, tell him that he is my friend, not the armor. That should be enough to confirm I sent you,” Evileye said after considering the problem for a bit.

“In that case, I should act quickly. I can ask the Sorcerer King to send me to the Theocracy to help keep the peace. Then, I can use some excuse to explore further south, which should allow me to get to the floating city and deliver your warning,” Momon mused. “Unfortunately, this means I will be away for quite some time. Please, stay safe,” he added, making Evileye silently squeal in delight.

“You too, Momon-sama. Please, stay safe, so we can meet again,” she replied.

“I will. Then, I shall take my leave, please, give my regards to the rest of Blue Rose” Momon said with a bow.

He turned around and walked toward the training grounds, where the Lizardmen were. Once he got close enough, Hamsuke ran to greet him excitedly.

“Master, the women you entrusted in my care have awakened,” Hamsuke reported with a happy smile.

“I know that, I’ve already spoken to them. By the way, didn’t I instruct you to report to me when they wake up?” Momon asked.

“This Wise King did as you asked, I did,” Hamsuke replied. “When they woke up, I placed them under Pinison-san’s care, and then I asked that fellow to inform you. I mean, to inform Ainz-sama,” Hamsuke corrected herself, as she gestured toward the hulking Death Knight standing motionlessly near the training grounds.

As I thought, she’s a liability. A few such slip-ups in front of Blue Rose and my cover would be blown, Ainz thought as he listened to Hamsuke.

“And what did that Death Knight do after you informed him?” Momon asked.

“He didn’t go to inform you like I thought he would. However, he assured me that the news had been sent, he did,” Hamsuke said.

“He said that he sent the information? Despite not leaving this place and not asking any magic casters to send me a [Message]?” Ainz double-checked.

After Hamsuke nodded enthusiastically, Ainz was left deep in thought. Death Knights can’t use [Message], so, logically it should have looked for someone who can, or come to me directly. Yet, this Death Knight claimed that the news was sent. Not only that, but I actually got it. This… is quite fascinating.

“Get that fellow and come with me,” Ainz told Hamsuke.

Today was a productive day, Ainz thought as he departed the Lizardmen village accompanied by the giant hamster and its silent companion.

*****

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