The Red Rose and The Black Rose

The row of subordinates brought from Titania stood firm, ready to receive orders.

The gaze of their Lady, Black Abyss, made them tremble with excitement and nervousness.

She looked at the letters in her own hands and ordered them, then glanced at those present while resisting the temptation to scratch her head.

"As you know, you were brought here to work on my behalf as Ambassadors of the Kingdom of the Gods, Deorum Regnum. The task is simple, deliver these letters and answer any questions the leaders of such Realms may have about our new Kingdom." Black Abyss began to explain, while all present watched her with unwavering attention.

It was impossible to simply interrupt or not pay attention to a Supreme Lady. Not only because of what it implied not to do so, but because they simply couldn't not have their full attention on each of the actions, expressions, and sounds of their Lady. They were beings of Titania, and therefore, if it came down to their lives, the lives of their loved ones, and everything they held dear, or the comfort and adoration of a Supreme Lord, without hesitation, they would choose the second.

"The basics have already been taught to you by Juliana from what I understand. I am the Official Ambassador, it is to me that you report and inform as messengers of Deorum Regnum. And any issues with foreign relations, it is to me that you indicate them. Understood?" She asked seriously.

""Yes!"" All present nodded firmly and with absolute adoration. It was natural to follow an order from the Supreme after all.

With that said, Black Abyss took a letter and began to read it. "Holy Kingdom..." She murmured, looked at her subordinates in front of her, and then pointed to the line, specifically to the Angel standing in it, the 'Virtue of the Patience', a level 55 summon.

This one, somewhat nervous, or at least what could be considered the slightest hint of similarity to the sensation, as well as excited, stepped out of the line and approached Black Abyss, kneeling before her.

He had a human head, but marble skin, to the point of resembling a marble mask and wig, with bright golden eyes shining like suns. He wore a white and yellow robe somewhat difficult to describe as well as his own body, but his large claws in a golden gauntlet were notable, with coppery eagle wings attached to his claws, sporting two golden halos behind his head, and one beneath his lion-like feet.

{Virtue of the Patience PNG}

"Being an Angel, you will serve as the ambassador of Deorum Regnum to the Holy Kingdom. I find it appropriate." Black Abyss said, handing the letter to the Angel, who bowed his head and raised both hands, taking the letter respectfully, being careful not to damage or fold it in any way. Although it was a challenge considering his large clawed gauntlets, he managed it effortlessly.

He returned to his previous position in silence, unable to utter a word to Her for fear of causing any disrespect. For She was the Blessed One. She was their Goddess, and their superior in all things. What was, after all, a mere Virtue compared to a Seraph? And even then, the Supreme Black Abyss was one of the Saints, blessed by Divinity itself. The Saint of the Sun, Urielle...

And setting aside all that mysticism, unaware of what her subordinate was thinking, Black Abyss looked at the next in line, who seemed eager for his duty, and for not appearing nervous.

Black Abyss glanced at the next letter, the Dwarven Kingdom. She almost fell asleep from the boredom that just remembering it brought. The only relatively good thing about that visit was having an entire nation as an ally, the Quagoa, Frost Dragons, and other races there as subordinates, minerals, the contents of the treasury of the Dwarven capital, and well, getting rid of that Dark Dragon, although that was painful. Oh, of course, and the Rune Smiths, whom Bill and Christofer managed to convince and recruit to make items for Deorum Regnum. It was in process to see if they should bring in Din Mandalore to teach them things or something like that. She pointed to the Lizardman among the ranks then, who stepped forward and approached her, kneeling before her.

"... Zen... Zenberu, yes. You will be sent to the Dwarven Kingdom as the official ambassador of Deorum Regnum. It's a formality, as they are our vassals, but consider it a vacation after a bit of diplomacy. You can bring your friends along for a while if you wish. And you will be provided with guards in case anything happens." Black Abyss said kindly. She had a rough time in the underground kingdom, but Zenberu was surprisingly pleasant, and he was good at communicating with the Dwarves due to his previous experience.

"Yes! Lady Su- Uh, Lady Black Abyss!" Zenberu corrected himself midway through his military salute taught by Sir Gerald. After all, he could only refer to the Supreme Lady as if she weren't 'Supreme'. He took the letter with his small hand, as his other arm was much more worked and brutalized, and waited in line.

The Paladin smiled and looked at the next letter. She hummed with interest. After all, this nation was something that Deorum Regnum planned to attend basically.

"Dragon Kingdom..." She read the name of where the next letter was directed. So she looked at the man in dark armor with pieces of yellow scales, an emblem like a Wyvern on his chest, and a red feather in his helmet, pointing at him with a finger, almost accusingly, although it was not the intention. He stepped out of the line and approached her, just like the others, kneeling before her in the end.

"You're a Wyvern Rider... A 'Captain of the Black Wyverns', aren't you? You are the one who will make the first contact of our kingdom with the Dragon Kingdom, so you must make a good impression and act respectfully and amiably. But always strong. Do not show weakness. They must be assured that we will provide decent military assistance." Black Abyss said, handing him the letter, which he grabbed with his gauntlet, giving a silent bow before returning to the line.

{Captain of the Black Wyverns PNG}

Black Abyss looked at the next letter, seeing a familiar name, and feeling somewhat doubtful but sure of what to do.

"Re-Estize... You." She said, pointing to the Unseelie in the line. He was one of the cheapest Mercenary NPCs in Titania, of which there were few, as they were not particularly useful and were scattered throughout the Fairy Village and some places in Titania for roleplay. A Level 40 Unseelie Count, typically useless except for bothering invaders with his illusions and similar tricks. However, now that his background was real, he was an expert in manipulation and Machiavellian arts. He had a noble aura, and his gait was sophisticated as he approached Black Abyss and dropped to one knee before her.

{Unseelie Count PNG}

"Re-Estize is a large and very close kingdom, it used to have many wars with Baharuth, whose territory we now occupy. So it may be the most difficult of these kingdoms to convince. Under any circumstance, you must inform me immediately of anything. Their responses, who said what, and the like... Well, no. Give me a verbal summary, and then make a detailed report for Bachelory." Black Abyss explained, almost sweating at the thought of the Unseelie explaining three hours of boring and diplomatic conversation, explaining who's who... She would probably get lost within 10 seconds, so she didn't want to deal with that.

Upon the explanation of his duties, the Unseelie raised both hands to take the letter that the Supreme delivered with care and reverence. "I won't disappoint you, my lady~" He said with a sweet and cloying tone, quite enticing. With a final bow, the Wicked Fairy returned to the line.

Black Abyss didn't pay him much attention and looked at the next letter, feeling some disgust for the first time. After all, it was the most heretical nation of all.

"The Slane Theocracy." She had no doubts and pointed to a Fairy directly brought from Titania. But not just any Fairy, a Captain of the Army. One of the mysteries that Dont and she were still investigating. Individual beings who were not 'POPs' as such, but independent entities, like the inhabitants of this world, and at the same time, capable of leveling up, to the point of even surpassing POPs, which had a level limit of 30.

This one firmly stepped aside, walking straight towards Black Abyss and kneeling before her with his head bowed.

"Research and rumors indicate that the Theocracy has a very bad image of Non-Humans, so keep your Fairy nature secret and call yourself a human if asked. Scrolls with [Teleportation] and [Message] will be provided to you regardless. And although they have a bad reputation, they are the strongest human nation. Having their recognition is of utmost importance." Black Abyss said, extending her hand with the letter towards the captain, who stood up, taking it and giving a military salute to the Supreme.

The Official Ambassador then looked at the next letter, then pointed to the woman with three large pairs of insectoid wings, transparent and brilliant, shimmering with the colors of the rainbow, and a long white dress with transparent textures overlaying her body. Her face was beautiful, with eyes mirroring the hues of the rainbow and silver hair tied in a braid. She was truly beautiful. A Seelie Lady of the Rainbow, a Fairy of level 70.

{Seelie Lady of the Rainbow PNG}

The Seelie Fairy smiled and, after stepping out of the line, approached Black Abyss expectantly.

"You will be tasked with gaining recognition for us from the Karsanas City-State Alliance. With your presence, abilities, and auras, and knowing that they are basically a nation of Semi-humans, I expect success from your mission. I believe it shouldn't be difficult after all." Black Abyss said to the Fairy, handing her the letter, whose hands trembled as she carefully took the letter before returning to the line after giving a bow.

"Now... Argland Council." Black Abyss murmured to herself, then looked at the chosen one among the two remaining in the lines, pointing to him.

The Draconic Crusader, a Dragonkin of level 65 with the races of Dragonkin, who was a Dragonkin that 'embraced' his ancestry and was more Dragon than humanoid. His head was reptilian, dragon-shaped, with blue and white scales, large brown horns pointing backward, and golden eyes. He was clad in a full-body armor of blue plates with golden edges, with red fabrics at his waist.

{Draconic Crusader PNG}

He stepped out of the line and approached Black Abyss, kneeling in her divine presence.

"You. The Argland Council will be your destination. Within it, according to reports, several Dragon Lords coexist, ruling over different races, so they are familiar with such species. It wouldn't be unusual for someone like you, considering that the existence of Half-Dragons or Dragonoids is not impossible, and it could give us an advantage. It is undoubtedly a place of great power, so we prefer to have them as friends for now." Black Abyss explained to him before handing him the letter, which he took, bowing deeply.

"This servant of Your word will not disappoint you, my Lady." He said with determination and strength. He truly embodied a crusader... At least according to what Dont once explained to him.

The Dragonoid bowed again before returning to the line.

Black Abyss then looked at the last letter in her hand, pointing to the Minotaur with pieces of light armor covering his nearly naked body, and a round shield and a spear on his back. He quickly stepped forward from the line, confidently making his way toward Black Abyss, and kneeling before her.

{Gladiator Bull of the Coliseum}

"The Gladiator Bull of the Coliseum." She murmured, recognizing one of the mid-level Mercenaries who acted in the Mid-Level Mobs at the Titania Coliseum against invaders to wear them down as much as possible. "You will be a good representative to the Minotaur Kingdom. There isn't much to say about them, they are of your same species, so it is expected that they may accept you easily and quickly. And considering your strength and the Semi-Human nature of the Minotaurs, it is very likely that you will receive a warm welcome." the Supreme explained, handing the letter to the Minotaur. The level 58 entity took it with more delicacy than expected before returning to the line with a proud and grateful snort.

With no more letters in hand, Black Abyss looked at the line in general.

"Your destinations have been assigned, now all that remains is for you to fulfill your duties. You will be provided with appropriate escorts to defend and transport you from the border with your respective countries, as well as means to communicate and mobilize effectively. So, with that said, get to work." She said, applauding the ambassadors.

""Yes!"" They exclaimed, before giving another deep bow and beginning to make their way out of the room, leaving Black Abyss alone.

...

The Demiurge... That's one way to refer to him...

But he cared little for how they call him.

"[Hellfire Wave]." Before his spell, a wave of infernal fire flew toward the Semi-humans, human-like beings with white skin and four arms.

They were surprisingly skilled with magic compared to others he encountered. Capable of using level 4 and 5 magic, although they didn't provide much experience, which implied they were low-level. It must be an innate talent of their species.

And as much as they cast [Magic Shield] or other protections... None of it was a match for the power of the Infernal Archaeologist.

The wave of fire broke through their shields and set them ablaze, earning screams and cries of pain.

The children and women had already fled, along with some males, only the warriors remained behind, and among them, the leader, who gave him 1 level between her and the rest of her tribe.

However, now with his level 58 after probably killing half of the semi-human population and leaders, he was starting to notice the difficulty of leveling up.

It took him erasing 2 tribes of weaklings to level up just once before. Fortunately, this tribe was somewhat stronger, so it gave more.

He looked at a survivor who was not affected by the flames, feeling nothing but boredom as he watched him, like a scholar noticing an ant on the side.

"[Magic Arrow]." He cast, not wanting to spend too much Mana on a single trembling individual.

The magic arrow pierced him without issue, as he had no strength to resist.

"Hm..." He murmured, ignoring the sensation of 'experience' adding to him as spectral and invisible figures to almost anyone were absorbed by the Infernal Archaeologist. "I'm running out of Semi-human tribes to 'farm' in this area... I heard there's a human kingdom that isn't the Theocracy to the west of these creatures..." The Archaeologist extended his claws to stroke his chin. "Umu, good. Head west, Stolas of Knowledge. If you find a human settlement, stop and wait for me." He ordered the blue-feathered owl with a tuft of feathers shaped like a crown on top of its head, with long legs covered in papers with runes. A pair of round glasses covered its bright red eyes.

The owl just flew silently, to which the Archaeologist mentally noted where it was going.

He took advantage of the level gained by leveling up a class, and then looked at one of the corpses.

"[Create Lesser-Mid Demon: Infernal Vanguard]."

The Semi-human, belonging to a race known as Magelos, turned to ashes, while a creature of destructive power for this world rose.

And slowly, what for now was just a small squad, became a small army... And marched westward, leaving a trail of death and fire in its path.

…

The Holy Queen blinked, seated on her throne, as she received the news from one of her paladins.

"... Excuse me? Could you repeat that?"

"Y-Yes... A-An unknown Angel arrived on the outskirts of the capital and requested an audience with you, Your Majesty..."

Calca blinked again. An Angel...? No. She shouldn't rush to crazy ideas.

"Isn't it a prank invocation from some priest?" She asked incredulously. After all, for an Angel to act on its own accord... It meant that...

Was it a messenger from the Gods...? Or was it simply an Angel sent by some priest with some news? Although, if the Angel itself requested it...

"N-No, I don't think so, Your Majesty... None of our priests are capable of summoning an Angel like this..."

Calca grasped her chin, thinking deeply. The strongest Priests were capable of summoning Angels up to 5th level, which was very impressive. However... Was this an Angel of 6th level? Rarely could one see one, considering how rare level 6 was.

"... What did it come for?" She asked, quite doubtful.

"... It only requested an audience with you... It didn't give more detail."

Calca looked at the paladin, suppressing a sigh.

Kelart Custodio, on the other hand, seemed quite interested but remained silent.

And her sister, Remedios Custodio, didn't speak because she wasn't understanding the situation that well. And she didn't want to embarrass her friend the queen in front of other paladins.

"... I see... Very well, let it pass. If it's an Angel, then its summoner is a worshipper of the Gods." She said with a warm smile, concluding what was most likely and waiting to see what would come of this.

The paladin immediately left the throne room. He wouldn't allow an Angel to wait so long.

It was only about 20 minutes before Calca could see the Angel...

Kelart seemed about to faint.

That Angel... She had definitely never seen it before...

"Holy Queen, Calca Bessarez, this Angel sent by the representative of the Gods on Earth presents itself before you with a message made by Her will." The Angel's bell-like voice sent shivers down Calca's spine for how... Divine it sounded...

But... 'The representative of the Gods on Earth'? That... Should be her... Calca was the Holy Queen...

She furrowed her brow slightly but wasn't going to dismiss an Angel for speaking from 'its' perspective.

"... I see." She said with a smile. "Then speak, oh, messenger of the Gods~"

The Angel, from its white robes, pulled out a letter, approaching the Queen, who swallowed saliva for a moment, handing it over.

"Earth and Water. That is what the Kingdom of the Gods asks for." The Angel said.

Calca blinked, not quite understanding what the Angel was saying, and looked at the letter.

The divine being remained silent, undisturbed, with its marble mask, like an imitation, beyond human, of a human.

"This is..." She furrowed her brow.

It was an official request for recognition from the Deorum Regnum, the 'Kingdom of the Gods'...

"... For constancy... In the name of the Goddesses of Good and Evil..." She murmured as she read.

Upon finishing reading the letter, she looked up at the Angel.

"Excuse me, oh, messenger of the Gods... Which of the Great Gods do you come to represent?" She asked, now doubtful... This letter... Didn't seem...

"Listen, and listen well. I come in the name of the representative of the 34 Absolute Gods on Earth, the Marble Queen, Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum, who is blessed by the 2 unique Absolute Gods that remained in this world in their absolute mercy. The Goddess of Good, Mobius, and the Goddess of Evil, Onyx." The Angel pronounced with a divine voice as if it were a church bell. A golden glow emanated from it.

... Those 'Goddesses'... Was it a pagan Angel?

She blinked. Did that exist? If not... Then why didn't it mention any of the Great Gods?

She furrowed her brow back, and could notice that several nobles and paladins, including the Custodio sisters, were frowning at the Angel.

"... Well... I don't think we can come to an agreement under these circumstances..." The queen spoke to the Angel, trying to reject its request in the most cordial way possible.

The Angel stared at her... Or at least it seemed to. Its marble face was motionless.

"If that is your answer, then this servant of the Gods will withdraw with the news. However, the Marble Queen is benevolent, as are the Absolute Gods. If you wish to reconsider, this servant will await your response patiently." The Angel responded. There was not a hint of annoyance in its voice... Although it might just be because of its transcendental nature beyond human emotions.

"... Tell me, messenger. Who are these Absolute Gods? Why do you follow them?" The Queen asked, needing to know why a Servant of the 4 Gods, as originally everyone thought, was following other Gods...

"Hear, oh humble souls who have not been touched by divine light. The Absolute Gods, the 34 Supreme and Absolute Lords, with Their power, conquered creation with blood, sweat, and tears. They, the Absolutes, dwell in a palace that is like tens of worlds, a gift bestowed by the Mother of All Fairies as a symbol of peace and alliance. In Their divinity, They ruled the world of light, milk, and honey with benevolence and justice. Hear, oh disadvantaged souls lying in darkness, for among Them, whether Gods or Demons, heroes or villains, nobles or commoners, they unite in perfect harmony to fulfill Their designs. This humble servant was begotten by Their divine will, forged in the desire to grant to the Marble Queen, Their representative on earth, the power of diplomacy and kindness. This, in search of eradicating the rebel who raised its sword against her progenitor and creator, defying the sanctity of Her existence." The Angel recited as if reading one of the sacred texts with all the reverence and adoration that the most faithful and devout could have.

Calca blinked several times during the little sermon, not recognizing anything from any of the sacred texts of the Great Gods. Simply... No... In fact... Calca put aside her teachings of the Great Gods. She would be... Very closed-minded if she denied the possibility of the existence of another religion. While it was... Scandalous, since all human nations followed mainly the religion of the 6 Great Gods, it was not impossible for a new religion to emerge. And as long as it wasn't a threat to the Holy Kingdom and the Word of the Great Gods, there shouldn't be a problem with superficially accepting this.

"Huh... I understand, but th-" The Queen tried to speak, but the Angel continued with its praise.

"They have contemplated the darkest depths, overcoming a thousand False Gods. They forged the noble structures of this world, while enemies rained down on every beat of time. My Grand Goddesses, before Them, I bow my knee in faith. The first light of the Sun, They witnessed it emerge. For this reason, I would give myself in sacrifice for Them, beings whose existences are sanctified and Absolute, at distances that span dozens of heavens, so far from someone like me."

... The room fell silent once it finally finished speaking.

When they saw Angels of the 4 Gods, they acted the same when speaking of them, or at least the few who were capable of speaking, so... It was undoubtedly telling the truth in its beliefs... Unless its summoner forced it to say such things, something that couldn't be ruled out.

However...

"... We're sorry, but we cannot officially recognize your status. Not at the moment." The Holy Queen, Calca, rejected the Angel. She had so many doubts... And needed information, besides recognizing a kingdom with such a different religion... Could cause the discontent of the most fanatical... As well as the Theocracy... Especially the Theocracy...

And none of those options were favorable for the Holy Kingdom... Much less with a Demon like Komodo lurking around and threatening to attack any place at any time.

"... The benevolence of the Absolute Gods, as well as that of the Marble Queen, goes beyond human perception. This, while it is an insignificant messenger, is sure that, in the future, an agreement could be formed. For the common good." The Angel said calmly, but with a resigned sound. "Therefore, my visit ends here. I thank you for the time you have given me, as well as for having listened to the Absolute Goddesses." The Angel seemed to give a bow... Or what could be considered one for a creature like this, and Calca had Kelart return the letter to the Angel.

With the letter back in hand, and tucked away in its white robes, the Angel withdrew.

... Calca would need some time to think... A place where Angels and Demons coexist... It sounded illogical and funny... But an Angel doesn't lie...

…

Raymond wiped the sweat from his brow...

It was... Worrying how frequently the cardinals were gathering lately...

Well, it made sense. The Black Scripture had been intercepted by demons in the Tob Forest, they lost two of their members, and four ended up injured...

All on their way to a meeting with the Lord Platinum Dragon...

Fortunately, the Dragon 'forgave' them because it was something beyond their control, and left the possibility of a meeting open whenever possible.

That was a relief at least... But the fact that the Komodo Demon had creatures strong enough to match or put the Black Scripture in jeopardy... Was incredibly worrying.

But another worrying thing...

"I apologize for this surprising visit, you must be very busy men. But rest assured that this is an urgent matter you should concern yourselves with." The knight said to those present, taking a letter from a pocket in his waist, which he opened and recited its text.

... In short... The territory that was once the Baharuth Empire before becoming a toxic and dead land, was claimed by a supposed 'Marble Queen' who acts on behalf of the '34 Absolute Gods', forming the 'Deorum Regnum', which is a nation primarily composed of... Non-Human Races...

Raymond didn't know what to think... It was, in a certain sense, logical that non-human races could survive in that environment, after all, there were many creatures resistant to poison.

But it was mentioned that there were humans, Dwarves, and... Elves among the citizens... With the latter two being beings not so different from humans with some slight exceptions in slightly superior capabilities in certain areas.

And basically, they were on their nation's side. It was the former territory of Baharuth after all.

While Raymond began to consider several things, while knowing that Yvon would ponder it silently... His companion... Dominic... Was not especially passive...

"I don't know what you're all thinking about so much. Not only do they praise Pagan Gods but they have creatures like those as 'citizens'... Tch, we shouldn't just not recognize them but take them down so Baharuth can be rebuilt." He spat venomously, simply despising the envoy and his entire nation.

The knight trembled slightly, which made the priests and paladins narrow their eyes at him. He did nothing.

Raymond looked at Dominic, while Yvon ignored him as always.

"... Dominic... We can't decide something like that so quickly... They say they are against the Komodo Demon... That it is an enemy to humanity... And to all races themselves..." He sighed as he couldn't help but pinch the bridge of his nose, even in front of an envoy from another nation.

"Well, we can't trust such a hodgepodge of races... What if the Komodo Demon actually came from them, huh? Semi-Humans are not to be trusted, so we shouldn't recognize them. Maybe even take their territory if they are too dangerous to reform Baharuth. We'll take care of that Demon ourselves." He spat again, mercilessly insulting the envoy.

"... If that's your response, then I'll return to my land to inform my queen of your decision. With your permission..." The knight didn't give Raymond or Yvon time to say anything, he just stood up.

... He didn't even bother to take the letter back...

"That's it! Go back to your impious land full of sinners, heretic pagan." Dominic cursed him as he pushed him forcefully.

"... Dominic..." Raymond sighed... There went a potential ally...

He resisted the urge to punch Dominic and shut his mouth. It was difficult, but he managed to resist the temptation. Somehow.

While there was no information about Deorum Regnum, but until today no one knew it existed at all, and indeed, it was difficult for it to really exist, even with the difference in beliefs, aiming towards the common goal of dealing with the Komodo Demon, a threat to life itself, it wasn't a bad possibility of an alliance, albeit surely temporary if they had been able to ponder it silently, with anyone.

It was certainly a waste that Dominic had such a big and restless mouth and such a troublesome temperament.

But humanity will persist, no matter how much it costs or hurts. He assured himself with certainty. No matter how fools like Dominic ruin golden opportunities.

Ugh...

…

"The current debts have grown. If this continues, the Country Risk will rise, and we will lose financial credibility." The whitish-colored Dragon said, sounding both concerned and annoyed.

"And what do you want me to do? I'm not in a position to shed much this time of year. I'll go visit my cousin next century, and I don't want the Ice Giants breaking a couple of my bones." The other Dragon, one covered unmistakably in diamonds, replied with a complaint.

"... Sometimes I feel like I'm the only one who cares about this country." The Wyrm said with a sigh.

"Hey! This wouldn't be a problem if that idiot 'princeling' wasn't holed up in his little castle in the desert. Besides, the northern countries don't want to buy the obsidian that Gessenvult gave, and the human countries aren't willing to buy it either. We're left with the Semihuman countries, mainly inhabited by Beastmen, and they don't know what to do with the obsidian." The Diamond Dragon spat, offended and irritated. "Only the Minotaurs buy our obsidian... And due to their low initial demand, we had to lower the prices..."

The Lord Dragon Wyrm was about to sigh and change the subject to a less negative one. But a bell rang on the side, indicating that one of the lower-ranking officials was seeking entry to the Council Chamber.

Why was a bell necessary? Well...

The Diamond Dragon, measuring a good 8 meters in height, struck another bell with his tail, resulting in a sound like crystal resonating and vibrating for quite some time.

Upon this, a door only 2 meters high opened, with a small Goblin dressed elegantly entering. With his white hair, hunched posture, and round glasses, he looked quite elderly.

"My Lords Councillors... Apologies for interrupting your important disputes about the future of the country but..." The Goblin nervously scratched his neck.

"Speak freely, Mr. Gabiu Ers Buga." The Wyrm Dragon Lord, Zalazilkalia Nahaeunt, said with a tone between tired and professional, not intimidating the small secretary who had served him for several centuries. How could a Goblin live so long? Well, magic existed to make impossible things possible. It wasn't such a perfect law as stated, but it allowed for a certain margin of 'impossibilities' depending on the caster.

"E-Ejem, yes, my apologies, my lord..." Gabiu took out a handkerchief and wiped the sweat from his brow. "An envoy from Deorum Regnum has arrived... A new kingdom seeking an audience with you, my Lords Councillors, in the form of diplomatic exchange and seeking official recognition..." The Goblin spoke more calmly, but still uneasy.

"Oh? A new kingdom?" The Diamond Dragon Lord, Omnaadsence Iculvuls, asked curiously. After all, the loss of Baharuth was one of the main reasons for their inability to sell obsidian. But if there was a new kingdom...

It's not that they didn't feel the loss of Baharuth beyond the economic, or well, at least Zalazilkalia had some empathy for the massive loss of lives, but as Dragons, capable of living eternally, kingdoms and empires could fall and rise in what would be a blink for them.

"... Well, it may be a solution to our problem. Let him in, Mr. Gabiu." The serpentine Dragon said to the Goblin.

"Im-immediately, my lord." The little green creature bowed, then disappeared through the door.

The pair of Dragon Lords looked at each other before positioning themselves more appropriately to receive such an apparently important visitor. They didn't wait long before seeing a larger door, made for 'official meetings with diplomats,' open.

They blinked as the humanoid Dragon entered, wearing a shiny armor that smelled exquisite... As if it were a legendary high-quality item.

However... At the same time, something smelled odd about the young one... As if he were more of a... Dragon imitation? Or a type of Dragon completely different from them... At least Diamond attributed it to him being a Semidragon. Wyrm, on the other hand, was more... Curious to know what exactly he was. He looked draconic, but he was... Odd.

"Good afternoon, Lords Councillors. I have traveled from Deorum Regnum, formerly known as the Baharuth Empire, seeking your word. So, I appreciate this opportunity." His voice was calm, grave, but notably noble as well, an emissary of a new Kingdom, or a perfect knight.

"Umu. Are you seeking our recognition of your leaders as owners of those lands? If so, what do you have to offer?" The Wyrm asked the knight, who nodded, taking out a letter from his plate armor, opening it and starting to read.

"Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum, Queen of Deorum Regnum, decrees; the trade routes with the Argland Council will be resumed to their previous state before the destruction of the Baharuth Empire. Additionally, to increase the development of our newly created kingdom, we wish to increase the purchase of products from Argland to Baharuth, such as copper, iron, platinum, diamond, and obsidian. Furthermore, a free trade agreement between private entities of both countries and the privilege of a tax reduction for incoming Argland merchants in the territory of Deorum Regnum." The knight finished reading, and... The pair of Dragons were almost suspicious.

After all, what they had just heard was everything the kingdom needed, but a newly created kingdom couldn't know so much about them, much less when supposedly all the information Baharuth had was vanquished by the Komodo Demon...

But still, it was practically a unique offer.

"That's an interesting offer. And what do you seek in return for this advantageous trade arrangement for us?" Diamond asked. Although it was a unique offer, he still had to be cautious. Additionally... This 'envoy'... Felt... Powerful... And having such strong draconic blood... Was also suspicious.

Although it was also true that the possibility of this being a descendant of Brilliance wasn't none, and it would explain a lot.

"The Queen Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum desires only three things; recognition from the Argland Council towards Deorum Regnum as an independent nation; a protection treaty between both countries, whoever attacks them will be our enemies, and whoever attacks us will be your enemies. And finally, the assistance of the Dragon Lords in the extermination of the Komodo Demon." He explained, and upon thinking about it, with the loss of Baharuth, their sales and trade in general had plummeted massively, so... A protection treaty was also among their interests... But... that last one... The Komodo Demon was the prime suspect in the destruction of Baharuth, but now it seemed confirmed with such mention from the Emissary of Deorum Regnum.

He narrowed his eyes slightly and looked at Zalazilkalia.

He nodded at him with a doubtful look, which made Diamond understand what he wanted.

"Hm... Envoy of Deorum Regnum. We will strongly consider this offer. However, as you will notice, we are not the entire council. Therefore, my companion, Wyrm Dragon Lord, Zalazilkalia Nahaeunt, and I, Diamond Dragon Lord, Omnaadsence Iculvuls, will provide you with quality accommodation for a few days to gather as many councillors as possible to properly discuss your queen's offer."

The knight nodded before speaking.

"I understand, and I have the necessary time, so I will accept the offer and make your kingdom my lodging for the time being. I thank you for the opportunity, Lords Councillors." He said with a slight bow to both Dragons.

The pair of Dragon Lords nodded in good harmony, accustomed to this type of interactions, and Gabiu, who had been patiently by the door, escorted the youngling Dragon out of the Council Chamber with politeness.

Once the messenger was gone, the Dragon Lords looked at each other.

They would have to contact the rest of the Council... And although they didn't expect anything from the official leader of the Council, they would contact him anyway. Perhaps the mention of the Komodo might lure him out of his lair.

…

Draudillon Oriculus looked at the guard in front of her with a fake smile.

"I see~ Then bring in the envoy." She said tenderly, hating every second of her act.

The Prime Minister remained by his throne in complete silence, giving her somewhat concerned looks.

... Draudillon already wanted to drown herself in alcohol...

When the doors opened again, a knight entered through them, wearing dark armor with three black plates on its front, with red engravings on it. A red mane fell from his black helmet, along with a brown cloak. His greaves of the same material made a sound as his dark metal shoes stepped on the ground, approaching Draudillion and stopping in front of her as he knelt.

"Greetings, Queen of the Draconic Kingdom, Draudillon Oriculus. I am the Emissary of Queen Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum, and I come in her name to deliver a message." With a deep Germanic tone, as well as a voice not very noble, but rather that of a knight, he spoke to the Queen.

Draudillion frowned.

"Hm... I'm sorry to say, but I've never heard of someone with that name..." She gently held her chin out of habit. "Speak then, emissary."

"Do not worry, it is normal. She is, after all, the Queen of Deorum Regnum, the kingdom that has emerged after the fall of the Baharuth Empire at the hands of the Komodo Demon. That is why I have come with this message." The Knight stood up, and from his waist, he took out a white letter, opening it. "Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum, Queen of Deorum Regnum, requests in this document to Queen of the Draconic Kingdom, Draudillion Oriculus, her recognition towards Deorum Regnum as an independent and sovereign kingdom. In exchange, we are willing to sign a military agreement to help you solve any problems you currently have..." He finished reading the letter, with the rest being trivial compared to the first part, then looking towards the Queen of this place.

Supposedly, this letter contained everything necessary for a sure victory. After all, it was written by the Black Abyss•White Flower herself, so the Captain of the Black Wyverns simply expected an acceptance from Draudillion Oriculus.

And the girl, about 8 years old, with red eyes, short white hair, and an elegant royal dress, looked almost dumbfounded.

{Loli Dragon Queen PNG} (You better just think she's cute and nothing else, perv!)

But at the same time, she wasn't particularly hopeful. 

A newly founded country was offering them military aid... It was almost lamentable how incredibly useful it would likely be. 

But she found it strange that a new country could afford to offer military aid in the first place... 

Nevertheless, she had no qualms about recognizing the country, as she didn't want to be on bad terms with anyone in these times, and the military aid wouldn't hurt.

"I-I see~ In that case, I approve~ I recognize Deorum Regnum as a legitimate and independent state~ Please, emissary, go to the Prime Minister to deal with all the necessary paperwork... I hope you understand that our country is in a complicated position due to the Beastmen attack..." She smiled somewhat nervously.

"Oh, excuse me, I haven't finished reading the letter." After all, the letter said 'Take a dramatic pause of 60 seconds' for some reason.

Although in Deorum Regnum, Black Abyss was tearing her hair out seeing that she gave the Wyvern Knight the letter where she had been writing a speech draft in case she was the one going, seeing the original letter on her desk. But still, Draudillion Oriculus looked at him expectantly.

"I, Titania, Adamantite-ranked Adventurer, who is also under contract with the new Deorum Regnum, promise to become part of the Adventurer Guilds of the Draconic Kingdom, and if not, to form contracts with your government." The Knight said, while Draudillion looked shocked, observing that... This newly created Kingdom had the promise of an Adamantite Adventurer.

Although that was actually just a part of the speech that Black Abyss would have said if she had been the one sent... But the confusion of letters resulted in something favorable, showing the impact it had on just the Queen's expression.

"... I see... Prime Minister... Bring me the letter..." She ordered incredulously.

The man nodded silently, gently taking the letter from the hands of the Wyvern Rider and taking it to the queen... 

And Draudillion bit her finger, just to start signing the letter with blood, without even looking at it for everyone's sake, as all of Black Abyss's annotations were there.

"For the record, I, Draudillion Oriculus, recognize Deorum Regnum as a sovereign state. And I am willing to establish an alliance with it on my behalf." The loli said with one hand on her chest, and the other with the palm extended, showing solemnity in her oath.

The Wyvern Rider nodded, before straightening up to receive the letter back from the Prime Minister's hand.

"It is satisfactory to hear that. I will return immediately to Deorum Regnum and inform my queen, Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum, about your favorable decision." The emissary said, bowing to the little queen.

Draudillion could only nod silently, while her head was still spinning from everything that had just happened... 

She... Silently thanked any God in the sky, and even her great-grandfather for this incredible opportunity.

Before almost suffering an aneurysm seeing the emissary mount a large, powerful-looking black Wyvern and fly off.

The Prime Minister hurried with concern and fear towards the queen as she fainted.

...

King Ramposa III grabbed his forehead as he sighed frustratedly listening to the nobles' discussions in the meeting room. 

Hearing the loud shouts of Marquis Boullope gave him a terrible headache, something his loyal knight Gazef, who was by his side, could relate to.

Fortunately, Marquis Urovana responded to Boullope's words with calmness and wisdom. 

But Ramposa just sighed subtly as he found himself unable to deal with the conflicts between the noble faction and the royal faction. If only he were a few years younger... Or if only Renner were a man...

He sighed subtly again, looking at his eldest son, Prince Barbro, out of the corner of his eye. 

His amused smile didn't please him at all.

He looked at Renner, his 3rd daughter, on the side, and her angelic but clearly tired smile, like his, caused him a slight smile of sympathy. That girl was so smart... Again, it was a pity that politics were so complicated and tiring...

A knock on the door interrupted the intense discussion between the nobles and the realists, making even the king wonder what was happening.

He gave Gazef a glance, and the warrior nodded, leaving his post to open the door.

It was a soldier.

"Your majesty. A man with an escort requested a meeting with you, calling himself an emissary of the newly founded Deorum Regnum in the former territory of the Baharuth Empire." The soldier said firmly. He was one of the soldiers personally trained by Gazef, so he was good at dealing with pressure and nervousness, and he was also a reliable source.

"Deorum Regnum? It hasn't even been a month, not even a week since Baharuth fell, and another kingdom has already been created? We don't have time for this, Baharuth has fallen and we need to hurry, before those sanctimonious people from the Theocracy and company claim that territory before us!" A noble shouted.

"I'm sorry to have to agree with Marquis Boullope and his outbursts... But he's right. How can a kingdom have arisen from the destruction of another and simply send emissaries in less than a week?" Pespea said, with a bit of sweat on his forehead, but with an arrogant and indignant posture.

The king would have allowed the discussions to continue without much interest, but they were against time with an emissary from a country waiting for them.

So he spoke up.

"Let the emissary in." He ordered with a somewhat imposing voice, reminding everyone who the king was and silencing the imminent discussion.

The soldier said 'Yes!' and left the meeting room.

It didn't take long for him to bring a... Handsome and well-dressed man. With curly blond hair, green eyes, and a nose a bit longer than usual, but his kind and noble smile was so genuine...

"Good day~ Nobles of Re-Estize and your King, Barbosa II~ I come today from the East with a message from our queen~ The Marble Queen, Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum, queen of Deorum Regnum~" The man said with serenity and his perfect noble tone.

"Don't bother with formalities, we're not going to recognize an Illegitimate Kingdom, those lands are ours to occupy, for all the years we spent at war against Baharuth and all the lives lost in it." Marquis Boullope said, almost spitting at the emissary.

The king wanted to hit Boullope in the face and kick him out... But he said nothing. Fortunately, the emissary just smiled a little more.

"The message I bring is simple~ Deorum Regnum, despite its youth, is a very powerful kingdom~ And our queen, Nitocris Hatshepsut Divinus Deorum~ Is willing to provide the necessary resources to create a coalition between Re-Estize and Deorum Regnum~" The emissary spoke, following the writings verbatim as he had read them before, although...

Unlike several of the previous ones, this one had been written by Superbia instead of Black Abyss, who hit the table seeing how many letters she confused, she would have to make many reforms so that it didn't happen again...

The only letters that were sent correctly, the ones written by Superbia, were to Re-Estize, the Slane Theocracy, and the Holy Kingdom, while the others were actually written by Black Abyss and sent by mistake, after all, the envelopes were all the same...

But such a thing was not known by the emissary, who remained overly serene.

"So~ The greatest beneficiaries would be Re-Estize~ We promise 2 years of commercial passage without financial impositions, unlimited military support, access to maritime trade routes, access to technological advancements from Deorum Regnum, as well as an economic compensation of 1 point of their GDP in favor of the treaty per year~"

"GDP?" One of the marquises asked in a low voice.

The Unseelie wanted to laugh in the face of these inferior beings, but refrained, maintaining his cordial smile.

The king was about to speak, but another noble interrupted him.

"These are just speculations. Baharuth's territory is much more valuable than the incredible promises of a kingdom that doesn't even exist yet. I doubt anyone will recognize them, when everyone will want to claim their share of Baharuth's land." Marquis Pespea said. After all, if Baharuth wasn't going to help him get land in the Kingdom he would help destroy, at least he would get the lands that once belonged to Baharuth.

"Marquis Pespea is right, father! We can't give legitimacy to a weak and newly formed country! If the Empire's territory is no longer poisonous, we can invade and take the territory for ourselves! How could a young country have the strength to resist us?" The first prince, Barbro, smiled proudly.

Boullope seemed to support the prince even. Even Marquis Urovana seemed to agree...

"Hm~ I know that's what most of you must think~ But Deorum Regnum has a very broad and strong force~ The maximum military capacity of this world~ You should be grateful that we are giving you this opportunity~" He recited the words of the letter he had memorized, looking towards the marquises.

"Hmp! It's a joke even! We shouldn't wait any longer! Father, let me take charge of the army, I will get the territories of Baharuth for us! I'll make sure to bring that 'queen' in front of you, father!"

"Silence!" Ramposa shouted, silencing everyone in the room. He coughed into his hand, and looked at the emissary. "Emissary, obviously, I will need some time to discuss these terms with my retinue before giving a final answer. You will be provided accommodation if you wish."

"Time is something we all need~ But not all of us have it~ This is my visit, as well as my farewell, King Barbosa III~" The emissary said, bowing, while, in doing so, he glanced at the Golden Princess, his look conveyed more than annoyance, it was... Like a warning... Making the princess swallow some saliva.

And once the envoy was gone... The room exploded into discussions...

Both the king, Gazef, Raven, and Zanac did not look kindly on how the discussions were heading towards going to war.

And Renner only excused herself to retire to her room while trembling at the memory of the envoy's gaze. She had to do a good job... Or it wouldn't end well for her...

She only saw Queen Dont once, out of the corner of her eye, by sheer chance... Her gaze still haunted her in her nightmares...

…

Pabel Baraja looked out over the Great Wall. He was tired, it was the night shift, after all, and he just wanted to go home to his wife and his daughter…

But as one of the Nine Colors, the Black, a Ranger, he had the primary duty of guarding the Great Wall and biding time in case of an attack by Semihumans.

Normally, dozens of Semihumans would have appeared to charge against the wall, or even none if they were lucky. However... The Semihuman attacks had come in large waves lately... This prompted Pabel and the Red Color, Orlando Campano, who wasn't particularly thrilled about working alongside Pabel but neither was he displeased, to be on high alert all day for any possible Semihuman incursion. But again, this didn't do much for Orlando's 'excitement'.

After all, Pabel defeating Orlando in combat had left him in a bad mood, but he still respected the 'Night Watchman'.

However, Pabel felt cautious and paranoid about the Semihuman 'attacks' lately... After all... They didn't seem like attacks... They seemed to be desperately fleeing... They didn't even attack in the slightest organized manner...

He sighed as he pushed the thought aside and ate a piece of bread with a nutritious but sour sauce that served as sustenance to keep him awake. 

No one wanted the best Ranger of the Holy Kingdom tired.

However, his skills were so good that he was the only one able to detect the slight tremor. He frowned.

He looked into the distance, and saw nothing... It must have been his imagination. Another tremor. 

Stronger, closer.

He looked again to where he felt the tremor, saw nothing.

He bit into a piece of bread as he squinted... 

The tremor grew stronger.

Pabel had been in the presence of earthquakes. This wasn't the case.

He left the piece of bread and grabbed his enchanted bow. He took a blunt training arrow, which had no real capacity to harm, although in Pabel's expert and trained hands, combined with the enchantments of the bow, the arrow could even penetrate steel armor.

And he fired it into the empty plains.

The illusion spell broke as the arrow passed through and collided with a giant shield made of marble, gold, and a red material.

And the demonic massacre began with monstrous roars, followed by a spell aimed at the walls.

.

.

.