04x03 - Baharuth Empire
Posted: 05/23/23 06:14
[ALBEDO]
I'm off, Lord Ains.
I will ensure that
the Re-Estize Kingdom
fully recognizes our
fledgling nation.
[AINS]
Good.
Judging by the size
of our delegation,
I have confidence that they'll
get the idea quickly enough.
Still, be mindful.
Whoever brainwashed Shalltear
is still out there
and we don't know where.
Of course.
I will be sure to keep
the Ginnungagap on my person
at all times.
[AINS] As long as you have that,
you shouldn't be affected
by the brainwashing
of another world item.
But I worry, since this is your
first time going out alone.
If you sense any danger,
retreat without
a second thought.
Do you have a teleportation
item for that?
Oh, but there might be
enemies that'll stop you
from teleporting
when they attack.
Have you thought
of countermeasures?
Hm, what else?
[clears throat] I suppose
that's enough nagging.
Oh, and as for Demiurge.
No, never mind.
Are you certain, My Lord?
[AINS]
Yes.
[MOMONGA] I want to know what
Demiurge is plotting right now,
but I'm supposed to be
the supreme leader here.
I have to look smart
in front of the others.
[AINS]
One last thing.
They say it's easier to get sick
during the change of seasons.
Even though you're immune
to all known illnesses,
there could be an unrecognized
ailment in this world
that catches you unaware.
So do be careful.
Not to worry!
I happen to know
the perfect little trick
to keep any sickness away!
[AINS]
What's that?
A kiss!
[AINS]
A what?
[ALBEDO] A kiss reduces
stress and revitalizes
the parasympathetic nervous
system, which in turn increases
the activity of
one's immune response!
In other words,
a kiss can prevent illness!
You must protect me, My Lord!
[AINS]
Ah--
[AINS] A kiss on the mouth
seemed too much,
so one on the cheek
will have to do.
You actually did it!
And here I thought you
would just ignore me!
[AINS]
Wait, is this because...
...I don't have any lips?
[AINS]
Albedo, please don't cry.
[ALBEDO sobbing]
[AINS]
I just want you to stay safe.
[AINS]
Are you all right now?
[ALBEDO]
Never been better.
Though I hope you can forgive me
for showing such an
embarrassing side of myself.
[AINS] It's fine,
but you should go now.
Yes, Lord Momonga.
I will return soon.
[AINS] Forget everything
you've seen today.
Of course, My Lord.
[ZINEDINE] We offer thanks
to you, o mighty gods,
for allowing us mere humans
to live another day
in the light of your grace.
[PRIESTS]
Thank you, mighty gods.
The first topic of discussion
is the newly established
"Sorcerer Kingdom."
This began with the
ReEsteeze Kingdom's loss
in the Kahtz Plains.
Aiding the Baharuth Empire,
Ains Ooal Gown
crushed the kingdom's army
with a terrifying offense.
Afterwards, he claimed their
fortress city of E-Rantel
as his own and
announced the founding
of the Sorcerer Kingdom.
Emperor Jircniv has announced
to neighboring countries
that the Empire
acknowledges this claim.
A kingdom ruled by
an undead monster...
Truly a living nightmare!
Perhaps we should
have intervened.
This can't be
allowed to continue.
We all agreed that it
would be too dangerous
to face Gown,
and even in hindsight,
that seems to be the case.
I can't fathom what
the Empire is thinking.
Could it be that Gown could be
manipulating them with magic?
Doubtful, since Paradyne would
protect them from such a thing.
Speaking of the battle once
more, the Black Scripture's
Thousand Leagues Astrologer
observed the event,
but due to some
personal complications
we weren't able to receive
the report until now.
At any rate, the document
in your hands
contains the Thousand Leagues
Astrologer's exact words
on the matter.
Raymond, are you
sure this is true?
As I mentioned, this is
a record of her account,
so as long as you trust
the Astrologer, it's true.
It's not that
she's untrustworthy,
it's just that these
numbers seem impossible.
It's sick!
All those Death Knights!
Hordes of undead with
frightful difficulty ratings.
So many over !
Perhaps it's illusion magic?
The Astrologer would have seen
through any deceptions easily.
Also, she's confirmed a large
number of Death Knights
are patrolling the
Sorcerer Kingdom, even now.
It is our sworn duty
to protect humanity.
What can we do for the people
trapped in that city?
The Black Scripture is our
most powerful resource.
Are they capable of
winning this or not?
They're not enough.
As their former Third Chair,
I can assure you,
they would suffer
a devastating defeat.
Humans cannot stand up
to Death Knights,
especially not that many.
But, that said, God-kin
are a different story.
[ALL gasp]
[RAYMOND]
Our two God-kin could triumph
against an army of Death
Knights, or any other undead.
However, that doesn't mean
that we shouldn't
think of alternatives.
You had me scared for a while.
[sighs] Tell us already.
You're hiding
something, Raymond.
What do you mean? I've been
honest from the start.
In that case, I have a question.
That battle, why did it affect
the Astrologer so much?
She felt something more
than fear of the undead
when she locked herself away.
She felt despair, didn't she?
She witnessed a power that
even God-kin cannot defeat.
This report may be true, but I
doubt it's the whole truth.
I was going to wait until I
could offer everyone a solution,
but you may share this
burden with me, if you like.
[MAXIMILIAN]
I see.
I admit, if you'd
shown this first,
I would've had a tough
time believing it.
Frankly,
I don't want to believe
this nightmare.
A single spell that can
k*ll over , people?
This magic's in the
realm of the divine.
An Eleventh-Tier spell
here in this age.
The time has come.
The descent of a new god?
It has been quite a while.
Two hundred years.
That does match the legends.
And yet, our plan is
so far behind schedule.
If the Re-Estize Kingdom
hadn't failed us,
our forces would be stronger.
Fools. Useless fools.
They were given all our support,
and a safe, fertile home.
We thought their children
would be strong,
that they would
cultivate heroes.
Ones fierce enough to fight
against the nonhuman races.
But affluence invited
corruption instead,
rotting the entire nation
from the inside out.
Not to mention the dr*gs
they sold to the Empire,
dragging them down as well.
They've proven themselves to be
unsalvageable at this point.
All we can do is
change our approach.
We'll have the Empire
take over the Kingdom
and start from there.
I worry that it's too late,
but we can try at least.
Let's get back to that later.
I wonder about the
Sunlit Scripture members
we sent to the Kingdom.
Perhaps it was the Sorcerer
King who k*lled them.
That leads me to believe that he
may be allies with Honyopnyoko,
the vampire that the
Black Scripture encountered.
They're both powerful undead.
In that case, do you think
they have a connection
to Jaldabaoth, since
he's another monster
who appeared around
the same time?
Sorcerer King, Hanyopenyoko,
and Yalldabayoath.
It's hardly a relief,
but if they all came
from the same place, that would
certainly explain a few things.
It would be quite the
coincidence, otherwise.
So many fearsome monsters
attacking the Kingdom at once.
The adventurer Momon
possesses similar power,
but his motives
are a mystery to us.
When he first appeared,
he defeated the vampire
and fought against Jaldabaoth,
but recently he's become
the Sorcerer King's ally.
Then perhaps we're
dealing with two groups.
The Sorcerer King may not
work with other monsters.
Let's hope that's the case.
The four of them together would
an unprecedented disaster.
That scenario is
extremely unlikely.
Momon fought and vanquished
the vampire, if you recall.
Uncertainties aside,
if we're sure Momon
is with the Sorcerer King,
shouldn't we try to turn them
against each other?
We shouldn't involve
ourselves directly,
especially when
we know so little.
Yes, I agree.
We've suffered too many losses
to take unnecessary risks.
We didn't just lose the Sunlit
Scripture to the Sorcerer King.
When Windstrider betrayed us,
we also lost the Crown of Wisdom
and the Shaman Princess.
And though we've resurrected
most of the Black Scripture,
Kaire's death has weakened them.
It will take years to recover.
We shouldn't grill meat
under a sleeping dragon's
nose in the meantime.
[MAXIMILIAN] For the time being,
we should get in contact
with the Empire and
gather some information.
[BERNICE]
Agreed.
Let's hope the Emperor is just
pretending to wag his tail
for the Sorcerer King.
[JIRCNIV growls]
You bastard! I hope you die!
Die and rot!
Wait. He's already dead.
If you're cursing an undead,
do you tell them to live?
I've heard from a priest that
you can wipe them from existence
with holy magic.
Wouldn't that be nice?
[JIRCNIV]
I'm losing it.
It's all the
Sorcerer King's fault.
[sighs]
[knocking]
[JIRCNIV]
Come in.
[SECRETARY A]
Your Highness.
You have quite a lot
of paperwork there.
Is all of it from the knights?
It is. They're letters
of resignation,
many of them submitted
by our elite forces.
They've lost their will to fight
after the w*r in
the Katze Plains,
spending their sleepless
nights in terror.
If you would like,
the secretaries
could handle this work
until things calm down.
It's fine. I told the knights
that they could voice their
opinions to me directly.
I can't afford to lose any more
support at a time like this.
That aside, do you
have news for me?
I do. The merchants you
were hoping to hear from
have contacted us today.
I'm thrilled to hear it!
They have some highly
valuable merchandise
to show off and would like to
have a private audience with you
at your earliest convenience.
Valuable merchandise, you say?
[JIRCNIV] If the "merchants"
from the Slane Theocracy
want to meet with me,
I assume they're wary
of the Sorcerer Kingdom
and are hoping
to cooperate with the Empire.
If I want to stand a chance
against Ains Ooal Gown,
then allying with the
Theocracy is my only hope.
But I can't even speak
their name out loud.
It would be too dangerous to
invite their messenger here.
We need protection.
[BAZIWOOD] We're headed
straight to the colosseum?
Are you going to meet
the adventurers
from the Silver Thread
Bird out front?
[JIRCNIV] Yes. They'll be
guarding our perimeter
while I speak with
the "merchants,"
but I don't want them in my box.
They'll shut down
any eavesdropping,
whether it be physical
or magical in nature.
[NIMBLE] As far as humans go,
adamantine adventurers
are the best bet that we've got.
That said, they still can't
surpass mankind's limits.
And yet look at what
Momon has done!
I heard he stood up to
the Sorcerer King himself!
The people that we're employing
are in the same class as him.
They have to do this
or we're all dead.
Please, Your Highness,
you can't get caught
saying things like that.
Or looking like that.
You can't seem desperate.
You'll make people worry
if you're not as
confident as usual.
A fine point, but since
it's just the three of us
here right now, might I
speak off the cuff a bit?
This stinks! What am I
s'posed to do?
Why did this monster
show up to ruin my life?
Fluder was my trump
card in this mess,
but he defected to the enemy!
Now the knights are
too scared to protect me!
And was it so wrong to ask Ains
for his strongest spell?
How else was I supposed to find
out what he was capable of?
Who could've guessed it
would turn out like that?
I was doing what
I had to as a leader,
now all of a sudden
everything is my fault?
No one will help me!
But don't worry,
I'm not giving up yet.
There must be something
we can do to win this.
Your Highness.
I stood next to
the Sorcerer King.
I saw him myself,
during that battle.
That creature cannot
be defeated by humanity.
Making enemies of
the Sorcerer Kingdom
is more than just foolish,
it may be suicidal.
How frank of you.
Though you're absolutely right.
But let's think of it this way.
The Sorcerer King
has the strength
to destroy the Empire at will.
Even if we surrender, there's no
guarantee he'll show mercy.
Yes, that's true.
So, I'll keep fighting.
[JIRCNIV] The Slane Theocracy
must have an answer.
They've been around much
longer than our Empire.
Surely, they have some w*apon,
some knowledge that can aid us!
I won't roll over so easily!
It is an honor to meet
you, Your Highness.
We're known as
Silver Thread Bird.
An adamantite adventurer
team, as requested.
I've heard you're the strongest
team in the Empire.
I'm sure you'll live up
to your sterling reputation.
We do try not to disappoint.
My name is Freivalds,
by the way.
I'm the bard and leader
of our proud team.
As for the others, please
allow me to introduce you.
[SODER] Let's not do
the whole song thing.
It's just too much
for me, all right?
Perhaps I should
make this brief.
This fellow is the eyes
and ears of our team.
Soder.
[FAN]
I'm Fan Long.
Our warrior, as you might guess.
And this man here is our
irreplaceable healer.
Greetings, Your Highness.
I am Unkei.
And the last one, you must be
terribly cold in those clothes.
His name is Powapon.
All our talents are
at your disposal.
No harm will come to you
on our watch.
It seems I'm in capable hands!
[CROWD cheers]
[SODER]
All right, all clear.
No magic items here,
Your Highness.
[UNKEI] I do not sense
any active magic, either.
Do you have any
countermeasures in place
if someone tries
to listen in on me?
[SODER]
Honestly, you've got us
and a ton of protection
spells guarding you.
I think you're good.
Very well. Now listen.
I'll be having a very important
discussion momentarily.
I would like all of you to go
outside and stand guard.
I fear if something
bad were to happen,
that would render us
incapable of assisting you.
I understand your concern.
But no, as the ruler
of the Empire,
I must not yield on this.
That's fair enough, then!
We'll stand right outside the
door, just as you requested.
But might you tell us who
your guests will be today?
The head priests of
the fire and wind temples
will be coming soon.
And they will have four
of their attendants with them.
All right, then.
As a tiny safety precaution,
are we allowed to break
the lock on the door?
If you deem it necessary,
then I won't stop you,
as long as you remain outside.
[FAN growls]
Wait! Don't break the whole
door--just break the lock.
[FAN]
But why?
Normally I'll just smash the
door and say "oops, sorry, boss,
I guess I missed the lock!"
Then we get to stay in here.
"No point in having
us wait outside
when there's no
door, after all!"
This time, things are different.
There's no need for us
to wade into the muddy
waters of politics.
I'm with you on that.
You'll be drowning in politics
if you don't get out
of this room right now.
They can get away with that
behavior because they're strong.
[CROWD cheers]
[JIRCNIV]
Thanks to Fluder's betrayal,
I no longer have
anyone highly skilled
or highly knowledgeable
by my side.
Help from powerful adventurers
will continue to be
an absolute necessity.
[BAZIWOOD]
The crowd is getting excited.
The Warrior King is up soon.
He hasn't had a match in ages.
[JIRCNIV]
This is what peace looks like.
[BAZIWOOD]
You think so?
They can enjoy v*olence
because they don't fear it,
because they have no idea
that there's a monster
breathing down the
neck of the Empire.
[knocking]
[NIMBLE]
What is it?
[FREIVALDS]
The priests have arrived.
They all check out.
[gasps]
It's a pleasure, Your Highness.
We thank you for
your warm invitation.
The pleasure's all mine.
Please, take a seat.
You arrived just in time
for the main event.
[JIRCNIV] They're grilling me
right out the gate, are they?
The fact that they handed me
the letter personally
shows how cautious
they are about this.
Or perhaps they don't trust
the Empire very much.
[CROWD cheers]
[ANNOUNCER A] Even
His Imperial Highness El Nix
is in attendance for
this grand event!
Everyone, please turn your
attention to the box seat above!
One moment, please.
[ANNOUNCER A] An honor to see
you here today, Your Highness!
Now, ladies and gentlemen,
are you ready
for the Warrior King to make
his triumphant return?
Who is this "Warrior King"?
Our champion. It's a title
given to the strongest
fighter in the country.
This one is the eighth king.
The strongest this
arena's ever seen.
So, it can be difficult to find
a suitable challenger for him.
I take it today you've
found one of them?
Apparently, the matchup was
decided at the last minute.
Even I don't know who it is.
They've likely kept it a secret
to garner even more excitement.
I've heard of this great
"king" of yours,
so I know that he's
actually a w*r troll.
He might be a useful ally,
assuming he would heed
your command in battle.
But The Theocracy
believes that mankind
is the chosen race of the gods.
You wouldn't mind
working with a troll?
It was a personal remark,
not an official stance.
But enough talk. Please
answer our questions.
That will decide
what comes next.
Of course, just a moment.
[ANNOUNCER A] But before
our champion takes the stage,
I'd like to introduce today's
challenger to all of you!
[CROWD cheers]
[ANNOUNCER A] This is a name
I'm sure you all remember!
King of the Sorcerer Kingdom,
His Majesty Ains Ooal Gown!
[gasps]
[JIRCNIV]
Ains Ooal Gown?
Why? It can't be.
How did he know?
It's a setup! Everyone, wait!
We came in good faith
and you treat us like this?
It's not me!
But you were the one who
decided on this meeting place.
That's beside the point.
Listen, I'm as
scared as you are.
What do you think
I have to gain from this?
There's no reason
for us to trust you.
Were you offering our lives
to the Sorcerer King?
Or perhaps you're telling us
to join you or die?
Neither! You've got
this all wrong!
[JIRCNIV] How did the
information leak?
Or maybe it didn't and he knew
everything from the start!
He just watched and waited
as I ran straight into his trap!
Hurry! Run away!
[AINS]
Jircniv Rune Farlord El Nix.
[AINS]
It's been a while, hasn't it?
Indeed, it has!
What a pleasant surprise!
It just seems so unlikely that
we would meet here like this!
[AINS]
Yes, and yet, here we are.
The power of coincidence
can be quite frightful!
[JIRCNIV]
If this information leaked,
what else does he know?
I was so cautious!
Nothing is safe!
In one move, he's crushed
my alliance with the Theocracy
and sent both of our
countries spiraling!
[AINS] Are these associates
of yours, Your Highness?
[JIRCNIV]
I see. It's a test of loyalty!
He's forcing me to either
protect the Theocracy
or sell them out and ally
with the Sorcerer Kingdom!
Forgive me.
I cannot offer a
proper introduction.
I'm afraid that an
urgent matter came up,
requiring my
immediate attention.
I'm sure that His Highness
would be happy
to fill you in on the details.
[AINS]
How unfortunate.
Don't let me keep you.
I'm certain we'll
meet again soon enough.
Until then, please
stay in good health.
What's wrong, El Nix?
Or may I call you
Master Jircniv?
You seem a bit pale.
Are you feeling unwell?
Uh, no. I'm doing fine.
[AINS]
I see. The body is a treasure.
You have to take care of it.
Well, better get to that match.
We'll speak later!
You thought to ensnare us.
I'm the victim, here!
How can we trust what you say?
This is an act
of pure cowardice.
I shudder to think what you
told him to just save yourself.
I didn't say a word!
It was all a trick!
What can do to
make you believe me?
[FIRE HEAD PRIEST] You've
lost all credibility with us.
[JIRCNIV]
Wait!
Before you go, please give
me your temple's opinion.
I need to know your position
on the Sorcerer King!
He's an evil undead.
There's nothing to say.
We refuse to acknowledge him
as a king, no matter what.
That is why we are
currently looking
for a means to destroy him.
If you question such a thing,
then you've fallen
for his trickery.
Do what you will, but we will
never play a part in it.
I'm sure this is just
what he planned for.
He's cunning, after all.
Far more than me, I fear.
Even though I'm sure you'll
find it hard to believe,
there's something you should
know before you make plans.
The Sorcerer King has proven
to be a benevolent ruler.
The people of E-Rantel
seem to be living in peace.
[WIND HEAD PRIEST]
Even if that's the case,
we don't know how long
his mercy will continue.
But they're safe right now.
So please avoid
any hasty actions
that might harm our country!
And one last thing.
I want you to watch
this next battle
from somewhere
in the colosseum.
If you find that he has any
weakness, please tell me!
Perhaps there will be
more to discuss later.
[ANNOUNCER A]
And here he is at last,
making his dramatic return!
It's the hero of the colosseum,
the most powerful fighter
in all the land!
Let's hear it for
the Warrior King!
[JIRCNIV] I can't win against
the Sorcerer King's cunning.
I can only place my bets on
the power of the human heart.
[WARRIOR KING yells]
Warrior King,
give him your worst!
I'm off, Lord Ains.
I will ensure that
the Re-Estize Kingdom
fully recognizes our
fledgling nation.
[AINS]
Good.
Judging by the size
of our delegation,
I have confidence that they'll
get the idea quickly enough.
Still, be mindful.
Whoever brainwashed Shalltear
is still out there
and we don't know where.
Of course.
I will be sure to keep
the Ginnungagap on my person
at all times.
[AINS] As long as you have that,
you shouldn't be affected
by the brainwashing
of another world item.
But I worry, since this is your
first time going out alone.
If you sense any danger,
retreat without
a second thought.
Do you have a teleportation
item for that?
Oh, but there might be
enemies that'll stop you
from teleporting
when they attack.
Have you thought
of countermeasures?
Hm, what else?
[clears throat] I suppose
that's enough nagging.
Oh, and as for Demiurge.
No, never mind.
Are you certain, My Lord?
[AINS]
Yes.
[MOMONGA] I want to know what
Demiurge is plotting right now,
but I'm supposed to be
the supreme leader here.
I have to look smart
in front of the others.
[AINS]
One last thing.
They say it's easier to get sick
during the change of seasons.
Even though you're immune
to all known illnesses,
there could be an unrecognized
ailment in this world
that catches you unaware.
So do be careful.
Not to worry!
I happen to know
the perfect little trick
to keep any sickness away!
[AINS]
What's that?
A kiss!
[AINS]
A what?
[ALBEDO] A kiss reduces
stress and revitalizes
the parasympathetic nervous
system, which in turn increases
the activity of
one's immune response!
In other words,
a kiss can prevent illness!
You must protect me, My Lord!
[AINS]
Ah--
[AINS] A kiss on the mouth
seemed too much,
so one on the cheek
will have to do.
You actually did it!
And here I thought you
would just ignore me!
[AINS]
Wait, is this because...
...I don't have any lips?
[AINS]
Albedo, please don't cry.
[ALBEDO sobbing]
[AINS]
I just want you to stay safe.
[AINS]
Are you all right now?
[ALBEDO]
Never been better.
Though I hope you can forgive me
for showing such an
embarrassing side of myself.
[AINS] It's fine,
but you should go now.
Yes, Lord Momonga.
I will return soon.
[AINS] Forget everything
you've seen today.
Of course, My Lord.
[ZINEDINE] We offer thanks
to you, o mighty gods,
for allowing us mere humans
to live another day
in the light of your grace.
[PRIESTS]
Thank you, mighty gods.
The first topic of discussion
is the newly established
"Sorcerer Kingdom."
This began with the
ReEsteeze Kingdom's loss
in the Kahtz Plains.
Aiding the Baharuth Empire,
Ains Ooal Gown
crushed the kingdom's army
with a terrifying offense.
Afterwards, he claimed their
fortress city of E-Rantel
as his own and
announced the founding
of the Sorcerer Kingdom.
Emperor Jircniv has announced
to neighboring countries
that the Empire
acknowledges this claim.
A kingdom ruled by
an undead monster...
Truly a living nightmare!
Perhaps we should
have intervened.
This can't be
allowed to continue.
We all agreed that it
would be too dangerous
to face Gown,
and even in hindsight,
that seems to be the case.
I can't fathom what
the Empire is thinking.
Could it be that Gown could be
manipulating them with magic?
Doubtful, since Paradyne would
protect them from such a thing.
Speaking of the battle once
more, the Black Scripture's
Thousand Leagues Astrologer
observed the event,
but due to some
personal complications
we weren't able to receive
the report until now.
At any rate, the document
in your hands
contains the Thousand Leagues
Astrologer's exact words
on the matter.
Raymond, are you
sure this is true?
As I mentioned, this is
a record of her account,
so as long as you trust
the Astrologer, it's true.
It's not that
she's untrustworthy,
it's just that these
numbers seem impossible.
It's sick!
All those Death Knights!
Hordes of undead with
frightful difficulty ratings.
So many over !
Perhaps it's illusion magic?
The Astrologer would have seen
through any deceptions easily.
Also, she's confirmed a large
number of Death Knights
are patrolling the
Sorcerer Kingdom, even now.
It is our sworn duty
to protect humanity.
What can we do for the people
trapped in that city?
The Black Scripture is our
most powerful resource.
Are they capable of
winning this or not?
They're not enough.
As their former Third Chair,
I can assure you,
they would suffer
a devastating defeat.
Humans cannot stand up
to Death Knights,
especially not that many.
But, that said, God-kin
are a different story.
[ALL gasp]
[RAYMOND]
Our two God-kin could triumph
against an army of Death
Knights, or any other undead.
However, that doesn't mean
that we shouldn't
think of alternatives.
You had me scared for a while.
[sighs] Tell us already.
You're hiding
something, Raymond.
What do you mean? I've been
honest from the start.
In that case, I have a question.
That battle, why did it affect
the Astrologer so much?
She felt something more
than fear of the undead
when she locked herself away.
She felt despair, didn't she?
She witnessed a power that
even God-kin cannot defeat.
This report may be true, but I
doubt it's the whole truth.
I was going to wait until I
could offer everyone a solution,
but you may share this
burden with me, if you like.
[MAXIMILIAN]
I see.
I admit, if you'd
shown this first,
I would've had a tough
time believing it.
Frankly,
I don't want to believe
this nightmare.
A single spell that can
k*ll over , people?
This magic's in the
realm of the divine.
An Eleventh-Tier spell
here in this age.
The time has come.
The descent of a new god?
It has been quite a while.
Two hundred years.
That does match the legends.
And yet, our plan is
so far behind schedule.
If the Re-Estize Kingdom
hadn't failed us,
our forces would be stronger.
Fools. Useless fools.
They were given all our support,
and a safe, fertile home.
We thought their children
would be strong,
that they would
cultivate heroes.
Ones fierce enough to fight
against the nonhuman races.
But affluence invited
corruption instead,
rotting the entire nation
from the inside out.
Not to mention the dr*gs
they sold to the Empire,
dragging them down as well.
They've proven themselves to be
unsalvageable at this point.
All we can do is
change our approach.
We'll have the Empire
take over the Kingdom
and start from there.
I worry that it's too late,
but we can try at least.
Let's get back to that later.
I wonder about the
Sunlit Scripture members
we sent to the Kingdom.
Perhaps it was the Sorcerer
King who k*lled them.
That leads me to believe that he
may be allies with Honyopnyoko,
the vampire that the
Black Scripture encountered.
They're both powerful undead.
In that case, do you think
they have a connection
to Jaldabaoth, since
he's another monster
who appeared around
the same time?
Sorcerer King, Hanyopenyoko,
and Yalldabayoath.
It's hardly a relief,
but if they all came
from the same place, that would
certainly explain a few things.
It would be quite the
coincidence, otherwise.
So many fearsome monsters
attacking the Kingdom at once.
The adventurer Momon
possesses similar power,
but his motives
are a mystery to us.
When he first appeared,
he defeated the vampire
and fought against Jaldabaoth,
but recently he's become
the Sorcerer King's ally.
Then perhaps we're
dealing with two groups.
The Sorcerer King may not
work with other monsters.
Let's hope that's the case.
The four of them together would
an unprecedented disaster.
That scenario is
extremely unlikely.
Momon fought and vanquished
the vampire, if you recall.
Uncertainties aside,
if we're sure Momon
is with the Sorcerer King,
shouldn't we try to turn them
against each other?
We shouldn't involve
ourselves directly,
especially when
we know so little.
Yes, I agree.
We've suffered too many losses
to take unnecessary risks.
We didn't just lose the Sunlit
Scripture to the Sorcerer King.
When Windstrider betrayed us,
we also lost the Crown of Wisdom
and the Shaman Princess.
And though we've resurrected
most of the Black Scripture,
Kaire's death has weakened them.
It will take years to recover.
We shouldn't grill meat
under a sleeping dragon's
nose in the meantime.
[MAXIMILIAN] For the time being,
we should get in contact
with the Empire and
gather some information.
[BERNICE]
Agreed.
Let's hope the Emperor is just
pretending to wag his tail
for the Sorcerer King.
[JIRCNIV growls]
You bastard! I hope you die!
Die and rot!
Wait. He's already dead.
If you're cursing an undead,
do you tell them to live?
I've heard from a priest that
you can wipe them from existence
with holy magic.
Wouldn't that be nice?
[JIRCNIV]
I'm losing it.
It's all the
Sorcerer King's fault.
[sighs]
[knocking]
[JIRCNIV]
Come in.
[SECRETARY A]
Your Highness.
You have quite a lot
of paperwork there.
Is all of it from the knights?
It is. They're letters
of resignation,
many of them submitted
by our elite forces.
They've lost their will to fight
after the w*r in
the Katze Plains,
spending their sleepless
nights in terror.
If you would like,
the secretaries
could handle this work
until things calm down.
It's fine. I told the knights
that they could voice their
opinions to me directly.
I can't afford to lose any more
support at a time like this.
That aside, do you
have news for me?
I do. The merchants you
were hoping to hear from
have contacted us today.
I'm thrilled to hear it!
They have some highly
valuable merchandise
to show off and would like to
have a private audience with you
at your earliest convenience.
Valuable merchandise, you say?
[JIRCNIV] If the "merchants"
from the Slane Theocracy
want to meet with me,
I assume they're wary
of the Sorcerer Kingdom
and are hoping
to cooperate with the Empire.
If I want to stand a chance
against Ains Ooal Gown,
then allying with the
Theocracy is my only hope.
But I can't even speak
their name out loud.
It would be too dangerous to
invite their messenger here.
We need protection.
[BAZIWOOD] We're headed
straight to the colosseum?
Are you going to meet
the adventurers
from the Silver Thread
Bird out front?
[JIRCNIV] Yes. They'll be
guarding our perimeter
while I speak with
the "merchants,"
but I don't want them in my box.
They'll shut down
any eavesdropping,
whether it be physical
or magical in nature.
[NIMBLE] As far as humans go,
adamantine adventurers
are the best bet that we've got.
That said, they still can't
surpass mankind's limits.
And yet look at what
Momon has done!
I heard he stood up to
the Sorcerer King himself!
The people that we're employing
are in the same class as him.
They have to do this
or we're all dead.
Please, Your Highness,
you can't get caught
saying things like that.
Or looking like that.
You can't seem desperate.
You'll make people worry
if you're not as
confident as usual.
A fine point, but since
it's just the three of us
here right now, might I
speak off the cuff a bit?
This stinks! What am I
s'posed to do?
Why did this monster
show up to ruin my life?
Fluder was my trump
card in this mess,
but he defected to the enemy!
Now the knights are
too scared to protect me!
And was it so wrong to ask Ains
for his strongest spell?
How else was I supposed to find
out what he was capable of?
Who could've guessed it
would turn out like that?
I was doing what
I had to as a leader,
now all of a sudden
everything is my fault?
No one will help me!
But don't worry,
I'm not giving up yet.
There must be something
we can do to win this.
Your Highness.
I stood next to
the Sorcerer King.
I saw him myself,
during that battle.
That creature cannot
be defeated by humanity.
Making enemies of
the Sorcerer Kingdom
is more than just foolish,
it may be suicidal.
How frank of you.
Though you're absolutely right.
But let's think of it this way.
The Sorcerer King
has the strength
to destroy the Empire at will.
Even if we surrender, there's no
guarantee he'll show mercy.
Yes, that's true.
So, I'll keep fighting.
[JIRCNIV] The Slane Theocracy
must have an answer.
They've been around much
longer than our Empire.
Surely, they have some w*apon,
some knowledge that can aid us!
I won't roll over so easily!
It is an honor to meet
you, Your Highness.
We're known as
Silver Thread Bird.
An adamantite adventurer
team, as requested.
I've heard you're the strongest
team in the Empire.
I'm sure you'll live up
to your sterling reputation.
We do try not to disappoint.
My name is Freivalds,
by the way.
I'm the bard and leader
of our proud team.
As for the others, please
allow me to introduce you.
[SODER] Let's not do
the whole song thing.
It's just too much
for me, all right?
Perhaps I should
make this brief.
This fellow is the eyes
and ears of our team.
Soder.
[FAN]
I'm Fan Long.
Our warrior, as you might guess.
And this man here is our
irreplaceable healer.
Greetings, Your Highness.
I am Unkei.
And the last one, you must be
terribly cold in those clothes.
His name is Powapon.
All our talents are
at your disposal.
No harm will come to you
on our watch.
It seems I'm in capable hands!
[CROWD cheers]
[SODER]
All right, all clear.
No magic items here,
Your Highness.
[UNKEI] I do not sense
any active magic, either.
Do you have any
countermeasures in place
if someone tries
to listen in on me?
[SODER]
Honestly, you've got us
and a ton of protection
spells guarding you.
I think you're good.
Very well. Now listen.
I'll be having a very important
discussion momentarily.
I would like all of you to go
outside and stand guard.
I fear if something
bad were to happen,
that would render us
incapable of assisting you.
I understand your concern.
But no, as the ruler
of the Empire,
I must not yield on this.
That's fair enough, then!
We'll stand right outside the
door, just as you requested.
But might you tell us who
your guests will be today?
The head priests of
the fire and wind temples
will be coming soon.
And they will have four
of their attendants with them.
All right, then.
As a tiny safety precaution,
are we allowed to break
the lock on the door?
If you deem it necessary,
then I won't stop you,
as long as you remain outside.
[FAN growls]
Wait! Don't break the whole
door--just break the lock.
[FAN]
But why?
Normally I'll just smash the
door and say "oops, sorry, boss,
I guess I missed the lock!"
Then we get to stay in here.
"No point in having
us wait outside
when there's no
door, after all!"
This time, things are different.
There's no need for us
to wade into the muddy
waters of politics.
I'm with you on that.
You'll be drowning in politics
if you don't get out
of this room right now.
They can get away with that
behavior because they're strong.
[CROWD cheers]
[JIRCNIV]
Thanks to Fluder's betrayal,
I no longer have
anyone highly skilled
or highly knowledgeable
by my side.
Help from powerful adventurers
will continue to be
an absolute necessity.
[BAZIWOOD]
The crowd is getting excited.
The Warrior King is up soon.
He hasn't had a match in ages.
[JIRCNIV]
This is what peace looks like.
[BAZIWOOD]
You think so?
They can enjoy v*olence
because they don't fear it,
because they have no idea
that there's a monster
breathing down the
neck of the Empire.
[knocking]
[NIMBLE]
What is it?
[FREIVALDS]
The priests have arrived.
They all check out.
[gasps]
It's a pleasure, Your Highness.
We thank you for
your warm invitation.
The pleasure's all mine.
Please, take a seat.
You arrived just in time
for the main event.
[JIRCNIV] They're grilling me
right out the gate, are they?
The fact that they handed me
the letter personally
shows how cautious
they are about this.
Or perhaps they don't trust
the Empire very much.
[CROWD cheers]
[ANNOUNCER A] Even
His Imperial Highness El Nix
is in attendance for
this grand event!
Everyone, please turn your
attention to the box seat above!
One moment, please.
[ANNOUNCER A] An honor to see
you here today, Your Highness!
Now, ladies and gentlemen,
are you ready
for the Warrior King to make
his triumphant return?
Who is this "Warrior King"?
Our champion. It's a title
given to the strongest
fighter in the country.
This one is the eighth king.
The strongest this
arena's ever seen.
So, it can be difficult to find
a suitable challenger for him.
I take it today you've
found one of them?
Apparently, the matchup was
decided at the last minute.
Even I don't know who it is.
They've likely kept it a secret
to garner even more excitement.
I've heard of this great
"king" of yours,
so I know that he's
actually a w*r troll.
He might be a useful ally,
assuming he would heed
your command in battle.
But The Theocracy
believes that mankind
is the chosen race of the gods.
You wouldn't mind
working with a troll?
It was a personal remark,
not an official stance.
But enough talk. Please
answer our questions.
That will decide
what comes next.
Of course, just a moment.
[ANNOUNCER A] But before
our champion takes the stage,
I'd like to introduce today's
challenger to all of you!
[CROWD cheers]
[ANNOUNCER A] This is a name
I'm sure you all remember!
King of the Sorcerer Kingdom,
His Majesty Ains Ooal Gown!
[gasps]
[JIRCNIV]
Ains Ooal Gown?
Why? It can't be.
How did he know?
It's a setup! Everyone, wait!
We came in good faith
and you treat us like this?
It's not me!
But you were the one who
decided on this meeting place.
That's beside the point.
Listen, I'm as
scared as you are.
What do you think
I have to gain from this?
There's no reason
for us to trust you.
Were you offering our lives
to the Sorcerer King?
Or perhaps you're telling us
to join you or die?
Neither! You've got
this all wrong!
[JIRCNIV] How did the
information leak?
Or maybe it didn't and he knew
everything from the start!
He just watched and waited
as I ran straight into his trap!
Hurry! Run away!
[AINS]
Jircniv Rune Farlord El Nix.
[AINS]
It's been a while, hasn't it?
Indeed, it has!
What a pleasant surprise!
It just seems so unlikely that
we would meet here like this!
[AINS]
Yes, and yet, here we are.
The power of coincidence
can be quite frightful!
[JIRCNIV]
If this information leaked,
what else does he know?
I was so cautious!
Nothing is safe!
In one move, he's crushed
my alliance with the Theocracy
and sent both of our
countries spiraling!
[AINS] Are these associates
of yours, Your Highness?
[JIRCNIV]
I see. It's a test of loyalty!
He's forcing me to either
protect the Theocracy
or sell them out and ally
with the Sorcerer Kingdom!
Forgive me.
I cannot offer a
proper introduction.
I'm afraid that an
urgent matter came up,
requiring my
immediate attention.
I'm sure that His Highness
would be happy
to fill you in on the details.
[AINS]
How unfortunate.
Don't let me keep you.
I'm certain we'll
meet again soon enough.
Until then, please
stay in good health.
What's wrong, El Nix?
Or may I call you
Master Jircniv?
You seem a bit pale.
Are you feeling unwell?
Uh, no. I'm doing fine.
[AINS]
I see. The body is a treasure.
You have to take care of it.
Well, better get to that match.
We'll speak later!
You thought to ensnare us.
I'm the victim, here!
How can we trust what you say?
This is an act
of pure cowardice.
I shudder to think what you
told him to just save yourself.
I didn't say a word!
It was all a trick!
What can do to
make you believe me?
[FIRE HEAD PRIEST] You've
lost all credibility with us.
[JIRCNIV]
Wait!
Before you go, please give
me your temple's opinion.
I need to know your position
on the Sorcerer King!
He's an evil undead.
There's nothing to say.
We refuse to acknowledge him
as a king, no matter what.
That is why we are
currently looking
for a means to destroy him.
If you question such a thing,
then you've fallen
for his trickery.
Do what you will, but we will
never play a part in it.
I'm sure this is just
what he planned for.
He's cunning, after all.
Far more than me, I fear.
Even though I'm sure you'll
find it hard to believe,
there's something you should
know before you make plans.
The Sorcerer King has proven
to be a benevolent ruler.
The people of E-Rantel
seem to be living in peace.
[WIND HEAD PRIEST]
Even if that's the case,
we don't know how long
his mercy will continue.
But they're safe right now.
So please avoid
any hasty actions
that might harm our country!
And one last thing.
I want you to watch
this next battle
from somewhere
in the colosseum.
If you find that he has any
weakness, please tell me!
Perhaps there will be
more to discuss later.
[ANNOUNCER A]
And here he is at last,
making his dramatic return!
It's the hero of the colosseum,
the most powerful fighter
in all the land!
Let's hear it for
the Warrior King!
[JIRCNIV] I can't win against
the Sorcerer King's cunning.
I can only place my bets on
the power of the human heart.
[WARRIOR KING yells]
Warrior King,
give him your worst!