16 Chapter 15
--Present (Treasury)--
Pandora's Actor rose from his kneeling position and began elaborating on his findings.
...
"Additionally, I've managed to extract valuable information from the 'Giant of the East'." Pandora's Actor proceeded with his findings. "It appears that counterparts to the races from Yggdrasil exist here, albeit quite different: humans, dwarves, elves, orcs, goblins, other demihumans and heteromorphs. Dragons are a particularly noteworthy presence here, revered as immensely powerful beings—quite similar to how we perceive them. Moreover, there are magical beasts in this realm not documented within our knowledge from Yggdrasil."
Continuing, he added, "Regarding the territorial divisions, three major human nations dominate the area around us—Re-Estize Kingdom, Baharuth Empire, and Slaine Theocracy. What struck me is the absence of non-human settlements, which could imply a human-centric ideology prevailing in these nations. They view non-humans as potential threats to their collective security, despite their vulnerability in comparison to the races we are familiar with from Yggdrasil. This ideology might lead to future conflicts due to their dangerous beliefs."
"Regarding magic, the information I managed to gather is somewhat fragmented," Pandora's Actor admitted, offering a slight bow of his head. "The troll's understanding of magic seems grounded in practicality, leaning toward healing spells for mending and destructive magics for obliterating. His perception revolves around magic's direct impact, especially in combat scenarios. However, through a meticulous line of questioning based on his experiences, I've deduced that the magic system here bears similarities to Yggdrasil's tiered magic. Nonetheless, a deeper investigation is required to comprehend its complexities and nuances fully."
"Hmm," Theós pondered while stroking his humanoid chin with his left hand, summarizing the report. "Not a swamp but rather a grassy plain. Not a misty, dark atmosphere but a clear, bright starry sky. Instead of level 20 or higher monsters and beasts, we're potentially facing human inhabitants of level 2 or below. Humans seem to possess limited knowledge about magic, but the trolls you encountered were notably stronger than these humans, suggesting a reversal in their status compared to Yggdrasil, where non-human races like trolls were mere sources of experience points. Additionally, there seem to be creatures that don't exist in Yggdrasil. It's safe to assume that there is also the existence of magic that is unfamiliar to us."
"I agree. There's another intriguing piece of information, Theós-sama," I continued. "The existence of 'Martial Arts', specialized abilities that enhance physical capabilities or allow for unique techniques, and 'Talents', akin to innate skills or perks offering advantages in specific situations."
'Considering all this information, it seems increasingly likely that we've been transported to the world from the story. The presence of Carne Village further confirms it. If that's the case, activating Aves Petrificus might not be as challenging as I initially anticipated,' Theós pondered silently.
"That concludes my report, Theós-sama," Pandora's Actor concluded.
Theós contemplated, acknowledging the troll's limitations in understanding the broader concepts. 'With the intellectual capacity of a troll, it's understandable that he would prioritize information that directly affects his survival and dominance. Higher concepts of politics, detailed histories, and complex magical theories would likely be beyond his interest or comprehension. Any knowledge he possesses would be filtered through this lens of practicality and immediate relevance to his life and rule as the Giant of the East. Still, I have confirmed many things thanks to him.'
"Very well. Good job, Pandora's Actor," Theós acknowledged.
"Nothing fills me more than your words," Pandora's Actor responded with another exaggerated bow.
"This world appears more perilous than I initially assumed. However, isn't this also an opportunity?" Theós mused. "Martial Arts and Talents—they pique my interest. But for now, our priority is to gather as much information as possible. Remaining ignorant is the choice of a fool."
Continuing, Theós added, "Now that I've successfully projected myself into this mannequin, I can move independently without compromising my safety."
"Will that really be alright? You're barely level 70."
"If that's your worry, then I'll simply have to gain some levels," Theós replied, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.
...
Above the Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick, a figure defied gravity amidst the star-studded night sky.
Upon closer inspection, a majestic entity emerged, a blend of flora and fauna towering gracefully, suspended in mid-air at a staggering height of well over three meters. Its skin, resembling bark, boasted a rich emerald hue, adorned with patterns mirroring the intricate weavings found in the natural world's growth. Moss and lichen embraced its surface, adding an organic touch, while bursts of small, vibrant flowers occasionally blossomed across its form, signaling a deep connection to the living pulse of the forest.
Its eye sockets were aglow with two luminous orbs, emitting a radiant green light that seemed to encapsulate nature's very essence. Crowning its head was a magnificent array of leafy branches, forming a regal canopy.
Its arms resembled sturdy tree limbs, encased in the same emerald bark as its torso. These robust appendages culminated in hands, elongated and graceful, their fingers tapering into delicate, twig-like extremities. Its powerful legs stood firm, resembling the sturdiness of mighty tree trunks, their feet splayed out like the gnarled roots of an ancient woodland giant.
Altogether, its appearance embodied a harmonious fusion of the untamed beauty of nature and the solemn dignity of an ageless entity that had overseen the forest's secrets for untold eons.
It spread its arms with a grace that defied its immense size, moving as smoothly as a gentle breeze wafting through the forest. The sound of rustling leaves and creaking wood emanated from its form as its voice resonated through the air.
"[Rites Of The Dominos]"
In response to its command, the land surrounding the area transformed into a pool of clay-like substance, engulfing the Tomb and swallowing it tens of feet into the earth in an instant. The surface reverted to its original flatness, leaving no trace of the Tomb's presence as if it had never existed there.
In all of Ainz Ooal Gown, an action of such magnitude could only be attributed to a single individual: Verdanthor, the Warden of the Emerald Sanctum. Known by the moniker 'Archdruid of the Primeval Forest.' She belong to the race of Ancient Ents, revered for her unparalleled mastery of druidic arts. She held the distinction of being the guild's most formidable druid, wielding an unrivaled control over the elements, particularly the earth, albeit at an expense of a huge amount of MP.
(A/N: Image here.)
Below the tree-like creature, a humanoid figure of pure black emerged and stood on the flat grassy field. As it saw this, the floating figure gradually transformed as it descended.
Upon landing gracefully on the ground, Pandora's Actor bowed apologetically. "My sincerest apologies, Theós-sama. My abilities only stretch so far. If Verdanthor-sama were present, her prowess could undoubtedly have submerged the Tomb much deeper underground."
"That is to be expected. Nonetheless, a commendable effort. This should provide adequate concealment for Nazarick, at least to some extent," Theós remarked, though his mind was engaged in other contemplations.
'When editing to his flavour-text, I deliberately omitted any awareness of his sealed potential, which I alone possess the means to unlock. Should that potential be unleashed, he might possess the ability to face the entire original 'Nine' on his own. However, such an act also poses a threat to my existence should he perceive me as an inferior and weaker being. I must observe him closely before making any decisions,' Theós contemplated, weighing the risks and implications of his concealed knowledge.
"As we've discussed earlier, let's meet up again when I summon you," Theós remarked, and in an instant, both individuals vanished from the plane.
….
