A Wonderful New World II

"Wait, do you smell that?" Anya's eyes narrowed, detecting an unsettling scent wafting from their abode.

"Damn it, I've encountered this odor before, but why here?" Jules remarked.

"Pyromancer's piss!" Anya whispered, abruptly halting in her tracks.

Jules's eyes widened as his bones shifted and contorted within seconds, transforming into a towering 3-meter burly berserker with blood-red skin. 

In this very moment, Jules possessed a strength that could rival even the Demon Oga. 

Swiftly, Jules guided Princess Anya to safety, executing a powerful leap that propelled them from one rooftop to the next. They had distanced themselves by 200 meters from the ongoing sea of explosions.

A sickening display unfolded a series of greenish fire plumes erupting and voraciously devouring every street and alley—a relentless inferno on an unstoppable rampage claiming the life of the unsuspecting. 

The deafening explosion tore through the air, shaking the very foundations of the land. The villa they had called home for the past week was reduced to ashes, claiming the lives of all those within, including Baron Veil and his family.

Silence settled—a heavy, oppressive stillness saturated with despair—as eerie wails echoed through the apocalyptic scene, reminiscent of a horror tale. Scores of people, their flesh liquefied by the merciless blaze, added to the horrifying scene. 

Anya wrestled with the weight of the tragedy, a heavy sorrow pressing on her heart. Baron Veil had been nothing but a generous and welcoming man. And now, he was gone.

The survivors were the fortunate ones, residing in the outer district, nearer to the main gates.

The proctor's silence carried a weighty message. Their father's will was no jest. He wouldn't offer aid or interference, even if he knew who was responsible. 

Now, their fate hinged on their own abilities and the loyalty of their chosen retainers. All they could hope for from the proctor was the assurance of an undefiled body.

Anya's tribulations did not cease with the devastation that befell Dusky, where 75 percent of the city and 90 percent of its populace were lost. Her path to the throne hung perilously by a slender thread.

'It couldn't worsen, could it?' she pondered with a heavy heart. 

At this very moment, a horn blared, shattering the silence, and the horizon teemed with a horde of savages.

"By the stars, it was a diversion! The chiefs' refusal to come and the Baros tribe leading us out here—these were all part of their malevolent scheme!" Jules' thoughts raced.

"Stay composed, take a deep breath. Thankfully, the Queen Dowager elevated the seal to a higher rank. We must hold out until Marcel returns."

(The original seal was initially intended for a Rank 2 Knight/Acolyte, but now it has ascended to a Rank 3 Grand Knight/Acolyte.)

With those words offering a semblance of hope, Anya gracefully slid off Jules' shoulder, her form morphing into a formidable 4-meter-long Void White Snake. The outcome of this imminent battle would resound throughout history, its tale recounted by bards for countless generations to come.

______________________

Three splendid days unfolded in a land graced by the timeless beauty of autumn. At the heart of a grand throne room sat a woman whose beauty rivaled that of the goddess Lucrizea.

She was adorned in a sultan's majestic emerald-green kaftan, which cascaded gracefully to the floor. She lounged with grace upon a magnificent throne, savoring the contents of a chalice meticulously sculpted from a skull.

On her left stood a captivating nymph named Ula. Her kaftan was adorned in white and gold, accentuating her curves in a mesmerizing manner. Ula held a royal parchment, exuding an air of elegance.

To the right stood a 19-year-old man, exuding a striking handsomeness that even surpassed that of Yanis and the twins.

A horn of salvation rested gracefully upon his head, complemented by white flames adorning his back. A solitary black wing symbolized his distinct and unparalleled presence amidst the gathering.

[ Note: Oga and Nuu lack horns, as their mother was a human. Their appearance is inherited from their mother's side of the family. Tulu possessed a beauty that could rival that of Ula, the Nymph.] 

At the base of the majestic figure lounging, a tengu named Ui diligently tends to the Empress's feet, applying ointment with care. Concurrently, an assembly of demonic subjects, diverse in status, stature, and race, kneels on either side of the aisle, anticipating the monarch's proclamation.

Within this opulent chamber, no remnants of the previous dynasty's nobility remained, for they had been purged, and their heirs reduced to servitude. 

The assault on the former Sandorian Dynasty had been swifter than Germany's Blitzkrieg. As for the seventy Rare Humans emerging from the Eternal Prism, they demonstrated their resourceful ability by deactivating the Royal Barrier, granting Alika the opportunity to enter.

In gratitude, they were bestowed their freedom and a substantial tract of hereditary land within the Royal Capital.

To Alika's surprise, a significant majority chose to dedicate their lives to service by her side. Faced with such fervent devotion, she could only relent with a grin, granting their heartfelt desires.

In the present moment, the resounding voice of Ula reverberated within the throne room.

"As stated in Her Royal Proclamation," announced Ula, the nymph, "the Sandorian Dynasty shall henceforth be recognized as the Ambrosia Empire, effective immediately!"

Transitioning to the subsequent matter at hand," she continued, "Her Majesty has opted to maintain the former noble rankings and partition the realm into four dukedoms akin to our neighbors.

Nevertheless, unlike their approach, the rulers of these territories may be challenged to a life-or-death battle every century. Not even Her Majesty is exempt. The duels shall be held in the Royal Colosseum."

In the face of such a radical declaration, the assembly of demons erupted into a frenzy.

 "Silence," Ula admonished, "This is a sacred ground; let us uphold its decorum."

"Before I unveil the names of the four dukedoms, Numu, Jou, and Ira, I request your presence," Ula commanded, her gaze tinged with disdain as it settled upon Numu, the individual responsible for her brother's demise. However, she maintained her composed demeanor.

These three demons possessed distinct characteristics: Numu, a deathly pale serpentine, with razor-sharp teeth; Jou, a crimson imp; and Ira, a feathered woman resembling a harpy.

"In recognition of your steadfast commitment and exceptional progress to the rank of a Demon Lord, you shall henceforth be granted the esteemed title of (Count/Countess).

Your households are granted immunity from challenges for the next thousand years. Each of you is extended the privilege of a fief and given one week to submit your chosen Household names and coat of arms.

As for the region you're being dispatched to, Numu the South, Jou the West, and Ira the North, Return to your assigned positions!"

"Your Majesty, may this humble servant pose a question?" Jou the Imp respectfully inquired.

"Speak!" Ula commanded.

"Does the tournament allow for outsiders?" Hearing this inquiry, all eyes turned towards the throne, eagerly awaiting an answer.

Empress Alika set her chalice down gracefully, stating, "As long as said individual is a descendant of the Demonic Tree, they are permitted entry." Alika then resumed her drink.

"Your Majesty, your boundless generosity is truly commendable! Long live Empress Alika!" The triumphant cheers of the three resounded, joined by others in celebration.

Alika simply smiled, signaling Ula to proceed.

But there was one who wasn't smiling and that was none other than that Old dog, he could guess what this wench was playing at. But Birger said nothing

"Countess Ira, Her Majesty has selected you to oversee the battle for Baron. Once the victor is crowned, dispatch the twelve into their respective dukedoms and divide them by four. This way, there will only be three Barons stationed around our borders in each region."

"..."

"This humble subject shall carry out Her Majesty's will," Ira proclaimed with a deep bow. She promptly withdrew to inform the eager demons gathered outside the palace gates of the momentous news.

"Moving on to the next order of business, Her Majesty wishes to extend her congratulations to Lord Endrick for reaching an extraordinary milestone, becoming the youngest Archdevil in recorded history. Nearby demons couldn't help but raise their brows in astonishment.

This grotesque being, a horrifying combination of brains and tentacles, who had barely lived for a thousand years, had already achieved the esteemed status of a Rank 2 Archdevil.

He had surpassed his peers, leaving them with no choice but to accept a lower noble ranking and wait for a century to challenge the Neh-thalggu demon for his position.

"Endrick!" Alika's bone-chilling voice descended, causing all present to feel the oppressive weight, of each syllabus…forcing their faces upon the tiled floor.

"Your Majesty," Endrick stammered as he found his corpulent form pressed against the ground.

"Did I not issue a warning about indecency? Why have you appeared before this Empress without a proper body?" Alika's displeasure was evident, and Endrick's panicked expression dripped with sweat, revealing his guilt.

"Take, possession of a servant, Lord Endrick" Numu hurriedly advised, anymore of this crushing weight and he might really turn to meat paste. 

With a casual wave of his tentacles a spatial rift formed, and an unsuspecting Rare Human within the palace found himself transported and appearing before the court.

Before the man could even blink or draw a breath, his head sprung open like a jack-in-the-box, and his brain was devoured, and replaced by Endrick's grotesque one. 

This gruesome transformation occurred in less than thirty seconds, leaving those who witnessed it speechless. 

"....."

'That must be how he attained such a high rank—by consuming the brains of higher lifeform,' the three dukes quickly grasped Endrick's method.

"Never again! This is your final warning; no one is allowed to approach this Empress without assuming a proper humanoid form," Alika announced as she released her crushing pressure, returning to her blood wine. 

The oppressive tension in the room was dispersed. 

"May the three Dukes rise and step forward!" Ula proclaimed. 

Shortly after, Modeus, Birger, and Aldric stood bedside Endrick; pledging their unwavering loyalty to Alika.

"Archdevil Modeus of House Orpheus, you shall preside over the Northern Alps."

"Archdevil Birger of House Agares, your domain shall extend across the Eastern shores."

"Archdevil Aldric of House Ur, your dominion shall encompass the vast expanse of the South,"

"Archdevil Endrick, your influence shall reign supreme over the Western Isle. You are granted one day to submit your household name and Coat of Arms," Ula said

Endrick nodded in acknowledgment.

"These four cardinal directions shall become your designated prefectures. Do you have any complaints?"

Silence blanketed the room.

"Very well, please continue kneeling. I shall now expound upon the responsibilities befitting a noble demon" Ula conveyed, directing her gaze toward the remaining court.

"The duty of a Baron involves safeguarding our borders, while a Viscount epitomizes the noble obligation of distributing food.

Every appointed Count is responsible for managing tributes from the lower houses, and the Marquis carries the duty of overseeing our key cities.

In addition, the Dukes are entrusted with upholding the Demonic Code of Conduct, guaranteeing the utmost standards of accountability within every Infernal Household.

You may all leave, except for the Dukes and Marquis," Ula proclaimed with confidence.

The throne room now held only six subjects.

"Uncle, why do you wear such a downcast expression? Are you still brooding over your defeat, or is it because of your missing arm?" Alika's lips curved into a wicked smile. 

No one knew when she had left her throne or what had transpired in that brief second between her taunting words and Modeus's miraculously restored right arm. But that wasn't all; Aldric's crushed vocal cord was also healed.

"Eh?" Modeus couldn't help but look down, only to find his right arm returned. "Instant regeneration!" Both exclaimed.

'When did she plunder that ability?' Birger muses

"Do not deceive yourself, Alika. Restoring my right-hand does not absolve you of your great sin… And I hope you keep your promise, never to identify yourself as an Orpheus again. My household doesn't harbor traitors like you," Modeus rebuked.

"Stay your hand, Yor; the old dog is simply throwing a tantrum. Have I not kept my promise? I've given our people hope, even the land you stand upon.

You and that thing over there would rather keep them in eternal darkness and let their talent waste away. You need not worry; I have chosen a new name, Ambrosia. Do you care to know its meaning?"

"I could care less, but I have a feeling that a contemptuous brat like yourself won't listen to me, so go on."

"..."

"This Empire shall be my sustenance, a source of strength for my ambitions. Whether it's you, Birger, Aldric, or even those beyond—you are all part of my nourishment. If this displeases you, feel free to challenge me a century from now…" Alika said, unable to contain a mischievous giggle.

"?"

All three men understood all too well the monstrous growth of this entity; challenging her would be inviting certain death.

"You're truly a twisted wench. Not only did you forcefully plunder my Overwhelming Might, but you even dug out Modeus—innate ability, the Great Burial Seal. Why are you so ungrateful? If only Ado-"

"Shut your trap! If you dare to speak his name, I shall extract your soul and roast it in the lowest level of hell… If it wasn't for your continuous purge, he would have been alive.

Or do you believe the entire realm is dumb? You've always despised talented demons and did your best to weed them out before they posed a threat to your reign, Birger the Coward. 

You do not deserve to be called the Beast of Chaos; you're simply a petty old fossil that would strangle an infant in its cradle before relinquishing your wretched power!"

Alika's outburst left the hall speechless, and even Modeus was stunned; he had always had his suspicions of Birger.

"You know nothing; you speak as though you understand. The plane cannot sustain too many stars; it was a necessary evil…" Birger murmured.

"Is that the lie you tell yourself to sleep at night?" Alika rebutted.

"....."

"It requires little effort for me to deal with you lots!" Be it Birger, Modeus, and Aldric all three men had a bitter smile.

"You three, step forward—Endrick, Molch, and Kaliel… It's time to pay the price." Alika commanded, "What ability shall you give Endrick, or would you prefer to do it the hard way?"

"...."

"Don't be mistaken; it's your privilege to serve this Empress. You may attempt to run, but I promise you, death won't escape your neck. Now make a choice!" Alika said with great irritation.

Archdevil Endrick knelt, his movements rigid and mechanical. He extended his palm in a submissive gesture. "I offer my Astral Projection," he declared, his speech unnaturally forced.

"Your talents are now mine, and my death is yours!" Alika responded with a darkening of her eyes. She reached out her hand toward Endrick's head, and the Neh-thalggu observed a white ethereal glow escaping his body.

Just as Endrick thought it was all over, an indescribable sensation ignited within his heart. It constricted like a serpent, causing him to convulse in agony. 

The tormented screams of Endrick bounce off the walls of the throne room, forcing others to guard their eardrum, as if scalding oil had been poured into his eyes.

The two Dukes shared in this fiery torment, while Aldric alone remained untouched. Alika appeared disinterested in his abilities.

As expected, the Marquis reacted with panic. Their instincts urged them to flee, but they found themselves immobilized, unable to retreat no matter how hard they tried.

A heavy silence descended upon the room as they watched Endrick engage in a macabre dance of agony for the next thirty seconds.

A few minutes later, Endrick returned to normal as if everything he experienced was an illusion. "Astral projection, you say? Tell me more about how to utilize it," Alika feigned ignorance as she devoured the shapeless blob hanging from her lips.

"It allows you to project your physical body into the Astral Plane once you've achieved Rank 4 Magus," Endrick hastily explained.

"Hehe, you're quite clever, aren't you? Alika remarked, a sly smile gracing her lips. The willingness to offer such a valuable gift implied there might be an alternative route to traverse the Astral Planes, or perhaps a set of coordinates."

Beads of sweat glistened on Endrick's forehead, a testament to the tension in the air.

Birger and Modeus stood frozen, grappling with the profound revelation. The immense wealth that lay beyond the Astral Gate was now in the possession of this woman.

It suddenly became clear how Endrick had managed to navigate the unforgiving prism—it must have been due to his unique physical constitution.

While the two elderly men were engrossed in exploring the mysteries of the Astral Plane, Aldric had unraveled Endrick's most guarded secret.

Aldric vividly remembered how Endrick's tentacle moved through space with a swift purpose, seizing the body of that servant. Although Endrick's actions were swift, he simply couldn't deceive those with discerning eyes.