Those Who Move in the Shadows

— –Hiiro– —

He was a proud Ogre, a warrior who had dedicated his life to protecting his village and fighting for the ones he loved. 

Each swing of his blade, each scar he bore, was for them. For the people he cherished, he had cast aside his own fears, dreams, and ambitions, choosing instead to live as their shield, their strength.

One day, that duty led him to work as a mercenary, taking on contracts that could benefit his village in the long run. 

During one of those missions, he found himself under the employment of Clayman, a powerful Demon Lord. It seemed like a solid decision at the time, securing resources and allies, but then came whispers of something dark approaching. An Orc Lord, marching with an unstoppable army towards the Forest of Jura. Every instinct in him screamed to abandon his mission and return home, to stand beside his people in battle.

But that choice came with a price.

When he attempted to leave, the very people he worked alongside branded him a deserter. It meant having to fight his former allies, but he would do anything if it meant protecting his village.

He fought tooth and nail to escape, yet, in the end, he was left bleeding in the middle of nowhere, cut down by those he once called allies, lying on the cold earth. 

He had braced himself for death, slipping between breaths, until a gentle touch stirred him back from the edge. When he had closed his eyes, he thought it would have been his last.

Yet he woke up once again. 

He had been saved by the queen of Raja, Towa. She had given him a name to save his life, an act that was extremely dangerous.

She had named him Hiiro. 

That name was the new spark of life he needed to evolve into a Kijin.

It was almost ironic; he was reborn not in his own land but in the arms of a stranger, a foreign queen who gave him hope when he had none.

The first thing he did upon recovering was run. Run back to Jura, to the village that still held every fiber of his loyalty. But as he entered the familiar woods, he was met not with the scent of fires cooking meals or the laughter of his people, but with silence. 

There were no broken buildings, no corpses, nothing. The only trace was the damage on the outskirts of where his village had once been. A fight had clearly taken place, but there were only faint traces of it.

Desperately, he scoured the surrounding area, clinging to the hope that they had somehow survived. He spent days searching, holding onto the faintest possibility that his people had fled to a new home, a hidden sanctuary he had yet to find.

In the end, there was no trace. At least none he could find. 

His search led him back to Raja, the one place that had offered him refuge when all else was lost. The one place where someone had cared enough to save him. He returned to Towa, intending to finally express his gratitude to the woman who had given him a second chance.

Yet even as he sought to bury his past, destiny had other plans. In a twist of fate, Towa informed him that she had heard whispers of a new village, a group of survivors who had migrated to a new land, a place called Tempest. 

His people had survived. 

The Princess he had once sworn to protect, the one he'd watched grow, had become a queen in her own right. News of her speech in Dwargon had spread far and wide, and he couldn't help but be impressed.

The temptation to go to them, to see his people, to hear their laughter and voices again, was almost overwhelming. But he held back.

Now that he knew they were safe, he couldn't just walk back into their lives. If he returned, he would do so with honor. He would only return if they needed his help or once he was sure he could stand with pride amongst them.

So, he waited, choosing instead to fight for Raja. For Towa, the queen who had saved him when he had nothing left.

However, Towa's kindness was killing her. She was sacrificing her own life for the life of her people. 

Though he wasn't ready yet, he embarked once again to find his village. To save the life of his new queen.

— –Shadow Codename: Friendly Merchant– —

In a lavish, dimly lit lounge within the heart of Englassia, a group of the wealthiest merchants in the Western Nations reclined in leather chairs, savoring fine wine and delicacies served by the Free Guild's most exclusive establishment. 

Here, between crystal chandeliers and richly patterned tapestries, they could speak freely without fear of prying ears, an environment crafted precisely to cater to those who sponsored and donated to the Free Guild.

"So, the latest word around the capital is that Tempest's products are flooding the markets, driving everything else into obscurity." Muttered Rupert, an older man with a pale face and sharp eyes, rubbing his chin with a mixture of thoughtfulness and frustration. "Seems it's all anyone wants these days."

The atmosphere soured at once, a collective scowl spreading across the room as the merchants shook their heads in annoyance.

"You don't need to remind me, Rupert." Lisa replied, she was a younger woman with an elegant crimson dress, her face full of frustration. "My shipments have dropped in value by twenty-five percent in the last few months alone. That damned dog of theirs keeps sweeping up anything worth having. If this keeps up, I might as well pack up and call it quits."

"It's not just about the demand, Lisa." Complained another, an older gentleman with silver hair, tapping his jeweled ring against the table. "It's the damn quality. No matter how hard we try, we can't compete without dealing with that mutt, Hermes, directly. And I'll be damned if I let some Kobold meddle with my business."

Just then, the door swung open, and a man draped in a simple, unassuming cloak entered. Though modestly dressed, his composure commanded the room's attention as he approached. With a slight nod, the handsome man took his seat at the head of the table, drawing the merchants' eyes as he waved for tea.

"Tempest, you say?" He began smoothly, his deep voice steady as he lifted his teacup, inspecting it with a practiced air of indifference. "Let me tell you, I'd rather not hear that name again if I can help it. My last few shipments barely made it back intact. Monsters have been hounding my caravans relentlessly. Five whole carriages, gone in less than two weeks. At this rate, Mjollmille might just have grounds to dismiss me."

The merchants shared startled glances. They had heard rumors of incidents on the roads but not from someone as connected as him. All of them were familiar with Kenji, the prodigy chosen by none other than Mjollmille. He had been revitalizing the market and even though he hadn't been in the trade for long, his words held a good deal of importance.

"Are you suggesting Tempest is now attacking our shipments?" Rupert blurted, his face flushed with indignation. "After all they've taken over the markets, now they've resorted to highway robbery?"

The anger rippled through the table, mutters of outrage and whispered curses passing between the merchants. Kenji allowed the frustration to simmer, sipping his tea before clearing his throat, silencing the group once more.

"Well… perhaps it's not all lost." He said, a faint, almost conspiratorial smile gracing his lips. "Our salvation may yet lie with the Goddess herself."

"The church?" Lisa's eyes lit up with cautious interest. "Are you suggesting the Holy Knights plans to intervene?"

Kenji's expression grew somber, and he leaned forward, lowering his voice as if to shield his words from even the walls. 

"Indeed. Rumor has it that Her Holiness has grown… concerned with Tempest's ambitions. Her Holy Knights and Paladins are gathering strength, preparing for what may come."

Around the table, the merchants exchanged wary glances, a mixture of relief and dread passing among them.

"It's about time." Rupert muttered, his eyes narrowing. "For too long, the church has kept its hands clean of this… monstrosity. Their inaction had me beginning to think they feared Tempest's strength."

"Oh, they're preparing." Kenji replied, a shadow flickering across his face. "But this is no minor skirmish they're anticipating. Tempest's power has reached unsettling heights. It's said that the church is preparing for… sacrifices."

A heavy silence fell over the table, the merchants processing the implications. Kenji had them right where he wanted, caught between their greed and the looming threat.

"Should we pull back our merchant caravans from the main roads then? If a war truly breaks out…" Lisa asked softly with some concern. Other than Kenji, she was the most inexperienced out of the group. She would take any warning from more knowledgeable merchants extremely seriously.

"No need for such drastic measures just yet. But…" He paused, looking each one of them in the eye. "...avoid regions that lack faith in Luminous. These places may soon find themselves… in the crossfire." Kenji shook his head gently. 

His words left a chill in the air, a carefully planted seed of fear, mingled with the faintest glimmer of hope. Kenji sipped his tea, savoring the silence as the merchants fell into uneasy contemplation, their imaginations already spinning webs of potential losses and desperate alliances.

Unseen to them, the corners of Kenji's mouth lifted into a subtle smirk. The groundwork was laid, and the merchants' unease was, but the first ripple in the current Rimuru had set in motion. He was a Dragonewt, however, he had evolved to perfectly resemble Humans. And thanks to the strange bracelet his lord had given him, he could conceal his magicules perfectly without having to focus too much on them.

"Hmm… that would be a significant loss of market share…" Rupert said reluctantly, but after a moment, he gave a resolute nod. "So be it. If we must cut them off, then perhaps it's for the best. Only the towns near the forest should be affected. They're minor trading posts; it won't cripple us." He sighed, rubbing his temples. 

But the handsome man, holding back his smile, slowly shook his head.

"I'm afraid it's not quite so simple." Kenji leaned back, his gaze steady as he observed the merchants. "Any town or city that doesn't worship Luminous is in danger. Rumors, however small, have been circulating that now that Demon Lord Rimuru has consolidated the Great Forest under his name, he plans to expand beyond it. They say he's amassing forces, armies of Monsters to spread his influence and territory."

The impact of his words was immediate. Shocked glances shot around the table as murmurs of disbelief and indignation filled the air. Kenji allowed the moment to stretch, watching their reactions with a widening smile, his eyes narrowing in satisfaction.

"Think about it." He continued, his voice almost a whisper. "Rimuru has tasted power with his conquest of Falmuth. Who's to say he'll stop there? Today, it's the forest and the surrounding regions. Tomorrow? Who knows how far he'll reach? The only salvation, my friends… is Luminous."

The room fell into silence once again, with everyone's expressions turning complicated.

"Only those who worship Luminous will be safe." Kenji added. "Perhaps, if Rimuru's ambitions grow unchecked, we'll all be forced to bow to him. Imagine it, a world ruled by Demon Lord Rimuru." A chuckle escaped him, rich with a dark amusement. "Wouldn't that be a sight?"

All of the merchants grimaced at his words.

"Ridiculous…" Rupert muttered. "Kenji, I know you are a devout follower of Luminous but isn't this a bit much? Any merchants under the goddess's protection need to donate a portion of their profits and products to the church. It may be a charity to help villages that may have been attacked, but… you are suggesting a Demon Lord might take over the world."

Even as he spoke, a shadow of doubt flickered in his eyes. Around him, the others shifted uncomfortably, exchanging wary looks. 

"That's exactly why we must act now." Kenji pressed, his smile fading into an earnest expression, as though he, too, felt the weight of his words. "If we don't want a world ruled by a Monster, we must show our allegiance. To protect what's ours, our families, and our freedom. Luminous is our only hope. We've grown too complacent, letting Tempest grow unchecked. What's a small donation compared to being protected by the goddess."

"Luminous… I haven't gone to the church in some time… maybe it wouldn't be too late to go ask for some protection…" Lisa muttered with some concern.

"It's never too late, my friends." Kenji added with a smile. "It's precisely for that reason that I am informing all of you. We must act, and we must ensure Luminism spreads. Or else, our freedom might soon vanish…"

Then as he stood up, he gave Lisa a friendly nod before turning to the group.

"It's your choice. However, consider this a warning from your friendly neighborhood merchant. I hope to see you all in the future, thriving and prospering. May the goddess protect and watch over you."

— –Shadow Codename: Shadow Charmer– —

Inside the Royal Chambers, the queen of Englassia was dressing herself. She had a slight flush on her face as she looked in the mirror.

"You never fail to impress me, Pothos." Queen Helga said with a satisfied smile as she turned to the man dressing next to her.

Pothos had received the Unique Skill: Shadow Charmer during the Harvest Festival.

In addition to Shadow Motion, he also had the subskill Euphoria, which allowed those he slept with to be filled with a rush of pleasure and energy. It was a legacy Skill derived from Asmodeus, and thus, it could impart Love Energy to his targets.

At first, he hadn't expected to rise up the ranks so quickly. Yet with his Skill, he quickly found himself under the employment of the Queen of Englassia herself. Officially, he was nothing but a butler. However, whenever the king was away…

"It's my honor." Pothos answered with a charming smile.

As a member of Shadow, he was an official member of one of the most secretive divisions. The Apito Trap Division, specialized in seduction and control of high-value targets. He was one of twelve lucky people who had obtained a Skill derived from Asmodeus and, thus, one of the twelve with the most influence.

If anything, he was the most tame out of the bunch. He had actually grown to like Helga and had convinced her to join him as a spy. He couldn't help but shudder when he thought about what some nobles under Aphrodite or Hedy were going through.

Those poor fools were truly wrapped around their fingers.

"Now, where were we?" Helga asked with a chuckle as she finished fixing her hair.

"There was a meeting?" Pothos asked, slightly unsure before he shook his head and focused once again. "Ah, that's right. The guild leader, Yuuki."

"Hmm… that kid." The queen nodded. "My husband met with him recently. Nothing much came off it. However, when he returned he seemed somewhat flustered. He didn't want to talk about it, but I can guess he is scared."

Before Pothos could ask another question, Helga smiled as she walked over to the dresser and opened a drawer.

"Ptlaushausrocktein." The queen whispered softly, using the magical password, and then, a clicking sound rang out. From the drawer, she took out a small book. 

"It took me some time to find it again, but I guess he hid it where he thought I wouldn't search for it again. It's been a few years since he used our bedroom to hide it. He shouldn't be back until late, so feel free to peruse it. However, do make sure to return it soon. I don't want him to find another hiding spot."

Photos grabbed onto the book and opened it, only to find it was a journal written directly by the king, and in the final pages was the recent meeting with Yuuki. Glancing back at Helga, he found her shaking her head softly.

"Back in the day, I 'stumbled' upon it. Read some 'interesting' things. Let's just say Aegil is not the righteous man he likes other people to think he is. But I guess he can't help himself and keeps on writing it down. Maybe it helps him cope." The queen answered as she began to walk out of the room.

"Date tomorrow?" Pothos asked, getting only a chuckle for an answer as he sunk into the shadows.

— –Shadow Codename: Masked Beggar– —

In the shadowed streets of Blummund, a group of figures moved with the silent precision of ghosts, each wearing ragged clothing that barely held together. To any passerby, they were nothing more than invisible scraps of humanity, overlooked, dismissed. 

And that was exactly as they wanted it.

Only months ago, these beggars would have clung to scraps, grateful for a single look their way. However, ever since Father had saved them, they enjoyed their time in the shadows.

As night fell deeper, these beggars drifted through the alleyways, listening to the city's quiet whispers. Their eyes were sharp, their ears sharper, and no secret in the air escaped their notice. Each whispered conversation, every passing remark, they took it all in.

"Crime's been down lately…" One guard said, his voice carrying a hint of smugness as he strolled through the streets. "I reckon they know I'm on patrol."

"Yeah, sure, Rudy." His companion laughed. "Though, something tells me things are about to get messy. Usually when things get too calm is when things get bad."

The beggars exchanged a glance, taking in the information as they continued to move through the night.

They knew how to listen, to pick up on the subtle shift of unease in voices, the nervous glances people shared when they thought no one was watching. Soon, they reached an alleyway where a lone beggar lay on the cold ground.

Snow was gathering around him, yet the man on the floor wasn't shivering, almost as if he was resting on a warm sunny day.

"Let the Storm consume the world." Whispered one of the beggars as he knelt next to the sleeping beggar.

The beggar on the ground stirred, his eyes opening with a glint of awareness. 

"The Storm to end all storms." The sleeping beggar answered, snapping his fingers. In that instant, the beggars dissolved into shadows, vanishing as if they had never been there.

They reappeared deep below the city, in a hidden network of tunnels carved by Goliath Ants. The underground cavern thrummed with life as beggars gathered around, enjoying warm meals, their voices low but lively. 

Many wore enchanted bracelets and rings that shielded them from the cold, gifts from their mysterious benefactor to ensure they could continue their duties without attracting suspicion. However, even though they were enchanted, they didn't look special, nor did they release an ounce of magicules.

The two beggars moved through the underground tunnel until they reached a dimly lit room. Inside was a person wearing a sharp suit, and a simple mask that hid his appearance. He wasn't their benefactor, but he spoke on his behalf.

In fact, only a few of the beggars who brought in important information got to meet their benefactor in person. A man who simply went by the name "Father."

"We come with news, Sir." One of the beggars said, bowing slightly as he stepped forward. "The guild has begun withdrawing missions related to the Jura Forest. Complaints are bubbling up, but Thegis quickly silenced anyone questioning the orders."

With a nod, the masked man dismissed them, placing small tokens in their hands, tickets for their next meal. Without a word, the beggars left, eager to make use of the precious tokens, while the masked man summoned the next in line.

"I saw Lord Monfid sneaking into Miss Hetirfeld's house late in the night. After meeting with the servants it seems they are having an affair…"

"Someone has stolen…"

"A knight was caught stealing supplies…"

"A cluster of mercenaries has been hired by…"

One after the other, countless beggars continued to report their findings. All following the arrangement of one person. Father, or as the people of Tempest knew him, The Gobfather.

Shadows were limited. They had to train for months to simply be qualified to leave into the field. In addition, the world was large. To waste a valuable Shadow on a simple noble would be a waste of resources.

After all, most led boring and repetitive lives.

That was why Father had created a new organization. A safe haven for those who had been forsaken by their own people. Across the entire West, there were underground tunnels in which the beggars could rest and enjoy warm food. In exchange, the beggars would become the eyes and ears of Tempest. 

However, Humans were not to be trusted. Which is why Father had turned the beggars against each other. They would become the shackles, constantly watching should any other try to break their oath to Father. In addition, a few shadows would stay inside each headquarters and regularly move around the city keeping an eye.

In the case they did… well… Father wasn't keen on second chances.

This way, they only needed a few shadows to manage hundreds, if not thousands of people depending on the kingdom. 

Some might call it cruel, but the Gobfather had ensured they would never go hungry or cold, that they would always have a place to return to, safe from the outside world's hostility. All he asked in return was absolute loyalty. 

To some, he was a savior; to others, a mysterious guardian. But to all, he was Father, the silent protector watching over them.

Though, in the end, Father only cared for two things. Tempest and its people. And he would do anything to preserve them.

— –Nikolaus– — 

Inside the grand hall of the Council of the West, nobles from every corner of the region crowded the room, voices echoing as they clashed over the urgent matter at hand. The Council chamber, a majestic room with towering windows and carved stone pillars, had never felt so stifling. 

At the head of the gathering stood Nikolaus Spertus, a man with a level of authority only lesser than Pope Louis himself. He was one of the pillars of the Western Holy Church, someone who most looked up to. Yet now, he was being greeted with nothing but anger and chaos.

The nobles, split into factions, spoke with murmurs and heated whispers, each group fiercely guarding its stance.

"This is madness!" A voice bellowed from the left, where several nobles sat huddled, their expressions dark and hostile. "You would have us surrender everything we've built, abandon our sovereignty, and for what? A single Demon Lord?"

"Exactly! You expect us to submit to the church as if we are helpless children?" Another noble, a woman from a powerful Englassian family, added, her eyes flashing with anger. "Our armies are not for show. If this 'Demon Lord' dares to threaten our lands, we will defend ourselves. We are not Englassia for nothing."

The room erupted in voices, anger and fear blending into a chaotic ensemble. It was then that Nikolaus raised his palm and struck it against the wooden desk.

"Silence!" He commanded, his voice echoing through the room. In an instant, the room went silent as they stared at him with concern and fear.

Taking in a deep breath, Nikolaus looked at the room with a serious expression.

"This is not a message from me but from our goddess herself." He announced with a calm voice. "The Demon Lord Rimuru is not a simple threat to our borders. He is a threat to Humanity's future. He would see us turned into cattle, our nations reduced to vassals under his monstrous rule. Without drastic action, our very way of life wavers on the edge of ruin."

A noble from Englassia, a tall man with a proud stance, scoffed and shook his head. 

"And so, we're expected to forfeit our kingdom's sovereignty, to bow our heads and surrender our freedom to the church? Who are you to declare this our only path?" He clenched his fists, his knuckles white with anger. "We might have a good relationship with the church, but that does not mean we have to submit to it!"

Nikolaus, however, didn't show any anger or annoyance. He simply spoke up in a matter-of-fact manner.

"This council was convened to inform you of the church's position." He said coldly, his gaze sweeping the room. "To earn our protection during this coming war, your lackluster faith will no longer do."

Before the nobles could shout once again, Nikolaus raised his voice.

"Tempest is not just another kingdom or Demon Lord. Rimuru holds alliances with not one but several Demon Lords. Demon Lord Frey, Demon Lord Milim, and even Demon Lord Roy Valentine. This is not a simple conflict. This is a struggle for Humanity's very existence."

A tense silence fell over the room as the weight of his words sank in. Many of the nobles paled, their eyes darting between each other. The reality of facing not just one but multiple Demon Lords was enough to unnerve even the most determined among them.

"Are we to fight all of them at once?" One noble muttered, almost to himself, but his voice carried in the silence.

"Indeed." Nikolaus answered with a nod. "This is no longer merely a battle against a single Demon Lord. If war erupts, it could very well be Humanity pitted against a coalition of Demon Lords. The church has warned that those who do not follow Luminous will be left to fend for themselves. Protecting nonbelievers is a burden we cannot afford to bear." 

"I've heard whispers about the treatment of citizens in Falmuth under Tempest's rule." Murmured a noble on the far side, his voice uncertain. "From what I gather, they're… not treated poorly. Some might even call it fair."

"Fair?" A noble from the church-aligned faction shot him a look of pure contempt. "Are you suggesting we submit to the Demon Lord's rule? Are you so eager to bend the knee to a Monster?"

Chaos erupted again as voices rose, nobles accusing each other of cowardice, betrayal, and madness. For a moment, it seemed the Council might descend into blows. 

A noble, older with graying hair and a grim expression raised his voice over the noise. 

"The church promises support, yes, but let's not forget they also failed to protect Falmuth." He looked directly at Nikolaus. "Or have we forgotten? Falmuth, a proud Human kingdom under the protection of the church, is now ruled by Monsters! Are we so eager to let our own nations follow?"

"Hold a moment!" Another noble, standing apart from both factions, interrupted. His face was pale, his eyes wary. "This isn't just about Tempest or the church. What about the Eastern Empire? This turmoil is exactly the opportunity they've been waiting for. While we exhaust ourselves fighting Monsters, they'll be watching, ready to strike when we're at our weakest."

The room fell silent at his words, a sense of dread creeping into the minds of even the most resolute. However, Nikolaus used this as an opportunity to share his final message.

"Then let this serve as even greater proof of our need to unite! With the church's guidance, we can fortify ourselves against both Tempest and the Eastern Empire. But divided, we will fall."

"And yet, what guarantee do we have that submitting to the church will ensure our survival? Is it truly the right choice to hand over everything we hold dear?" A noblewoman, one of the hesitant voices, raised her hand, her tone wavering. 

"Faith in Luminous is the only guarantee!" Nikolaus responded, his voice ringing with conviction. "If we remain true to her, she will protect us. But for those who refuse, I can make no such promise. The church will not risk its warriors to defend those who would turn their backs on salvation."

However, just as Nikolaus believed he had completed his mission, a noble stood up.

"The promise of salvation under Luminous…" Began one of the nobles, a tall man with a calm, calculating demeanor. His voice was steady, and his eyes held a faint, almost mocking glimmer as he addressed the assembly. "Isn't this merely a thinly veiled threat? We've been stirred into a frenzy, but let us take a step back and see clearly. For all the church's strength, it is not without its flaws. Falmuth stands as a stark reminder of that. The simple fact that Tempest has grown to this point is enough to showcase how inadequate they are."

A murmur of agreement swept through the room as another noble rose.

"Precisely." The second noble declared. "We have not thrived by clinging to the church's protection alone. It is through the pure will and determination of Humanity that our nations have grown. The church's Holy Magic may indeed be powerful against Monsters, but let us not forget the other forces we possess. Do we not have adventurers? Do we not have Heroes? Do we not command armies that rival any in this world?"

Then another noble stood up, nodding along.

"Perhaps the threat of Tempest is a blessing in disguise. The church paints it as a calamity, yet history has shown us time and time again that Heroes rise in response to such threats. When Demon Lords rise to challenge us, so too does the world answer with champions and Heroes to counterbalance them. Light Speed Masayuki, for instance, has already shown us a glimpse of what Humanity is capable of."

The crowd began to buzz with excitement as defiance began taking root. Nikolaus clenched his jaw in anger and annoyance as he noted the eerie coordination in their speeches, each voice reinforcing the last, stirring the room into a surge of resolve. He could feel his control slipping as the wave of sentiment spread.

"This is not the first time Humanity has faced Demon Lords!" A fourth noble shouted, his fist raised high in the air. "Throughout history, every time a Demon Lord has threatened our people, they have been pushed back, defeated! Now is not the time to cower in fear under the church. It is a time for action, for us to gather our forces and protect ourselves with our own might!"

One after another, nobles continued to stand, each voice more impassioned than the last. Their words echoed through the grand hall, filling it with a strength that threatened to drown out Nikolaus's message entirely. For the first time in years, the nobles of the Western Nations spoke with unity. And as Nikolaus listened, a chill settled over him. This was no spontaneous outcry; it was orchestrated, a rallying cry disguised as a debate.

It was then that a noble in a brown coat, with gentle eyes and a friendly smile, rose from his seat. His presence was unassuming, but his expression held a quiet confidence that silenced the room. He bowed his head respectfully before he began, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable authority.

"I have a proposition." He said with a warm tone. "Rather than bind ourselves solely to the church's protection, let us consider an alliance. We already have the Council, so we can use it as our basis for the future. We can continue to ally with the church, yes, but that doesn't mean we must submit to it."

Countless nobles nodded along as they listened to him, which only made his smile wider.

"I have been working with the Elda, Englassia, and Clemar families. And I believe with their help. We can come to an agreement that will allow the West to not only defeat the Demon Lords but also unite as one. We have all been preparing to defend the West should this ever happen for some time. We can look to them for guidance. We may even be able to rally the Guardian of the West to our battle. The one who has single-handedly made the Daemons under Demon Lord Guy Crimson retreat."

The brown-haired noble paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing, his soft smile unwavering. 

"In fact, it is thanks to the Elda nobles and their rallying of the Guardian of the West that the Daemons in the North have been pushed back successfully. There haven't been any reports of Daemons for the past few months. If the Guardian of the West can push back Guy Crimson, can he not stand up against the newcomer Demon Lord?" The noble added with a smile.

Then, picking up where he had left, another noble quickly spoke up with excitement and determination.

"Tempest may be a rising power, and the church's concerns are, of course, noted. But let us not act out of desperation. If we approach this with clear heads and strong alliances, we can protect our lands and our people without sacrificing what we hold dear. Let us meet strength with strength. We have adventurers, armies, and Heroes, and above all, we have each other."

Nikolaus stared at the nobles with a frown. However, after a few moments, he simply let out a sigh. He had been warned something like this could happen. And thus, he had also been given a course of action.

"I have conveyed my message." Nikolaus announced, his voice colder now. "It was delivered as a warning, born of our goddess's benevolence. Luminous has seen fit to extend her hand, out of kindness, so that your lands and people might be spared from ruin. However, if you choose to turn away from her mercy, then so be it."

He gave the nobles who had spoken up to rally the Council against him a final look before addressing the entire room one last time.

"Those who reject Luminous's protection will not be safeguarded by the church when the Monsters arrive." He announced. "We will not risk our resources on those who would disregard the goddess's guidance. But…" He paused, shaking his head with mock pity. "...our goddess is both kind and forgiving. When calamity inevitably strikes, and you find yourselves in need, she will welcome you back with open arms."

Giving the council one final nod, he turned around and began to walk out in a show of power. As he walked, the nobles went silent once more. However, they quickly began to rally together as they began to excitedly plan for the future.

"A shame… it seems blood will have to be spilled in the future." Nikolaus muttered as he heard the nobles in the distance. "I hope it doesn't upset Lady Hinata too much."

He had been given his mission by Hinata herself, and he had been told what to say and do depending on the situation. But even he hadn't expected the nobles to turn against him so quickly. He wasn't a fool, so he knew that someone was puppeteering the council from the shadows. However, that left the question of who.

'The Clemar, Elda, Nidia, Roussainte … It must be one of those. They were the most outspoken during the meeting.' Nikolaus thought as he began to march towards the church in Englassia to give his report. 'Though, perhaps that's just a mask the real puppeteer is wearing to hide their tracks.'

— –Souei– —

Sitting inside an underground tunnel, Souei, the leader of Shadow, continued to look through the stack of reports on his desk. It was massive, yet this was after it had been looked over by his most trusted subordinates to sort through the most important reports.

"The group of slavers who kidnapped the elves from the forest have been found…" 

"Souka, Benimaru, and Luchia have all reached the City of the Forgotten Dragon successfully. Their training will begin soon. Mamoru is currently acting as an interim general…"

"Suspicious activity detected coming from 65 different nobles. The probability that they are all colluding with each other is high. However, it appears they are all working under one person…"

"Eastern Empire continues to stop any attempts at espionage at higher levels. Hei and his team have been forced to retreat once again. One casualty. Proposal to retreat and regroup."

"The council meeting…."

After reading through the latest reports, Souei sighed and slipped into the shadows, his form vanishing and reappearing atop a towering mountain overlooking a massive city under the moonlight.

"The Eastern Empire…" he murmured, his gaze sweeping across the city. "What are you hiding?"

Tempest's Shadow Corps could move unseen throughout the Western Nations, gathering information without leaving a trace. But the Eastern Empire was different. Every attempt to infiltrate deeper had met an invisible wall. 

It was as though the Empire possessed a sixth sense for intruders. It was strange and frustrating, yet Souei knew better than to be surprised.

Reports from their brief encounters had shed some light on the Empire's advancements. Their technology far exceeded that of the Western Nations. While most of the world relied on swords, magic, and bows, the Empire wielded weaponry on an entirely different level.

Firearms were relatively common amongst the guards, and they had even caught a brief glimpse of massive vehicles that appeared to be heavily armored. Using the records that his Lord had provided him, they resembled tanks. However, he couldn't grasp their true strength without having to retreat.

Sadly, they must have pushed their luck in the beginning, and now the Empire was wary of them. Any attempt to get closer would result in an instant retreat.

It was strange, though.

In theory, every few centuries, the heavens would unleash an army of Angels upon the world, targeting civilizations whose technological advancements threatened to alter the balance. It was as if the divine forces aimed to keep the world trapped in a cycle, suppressing any potential for widespread progress. Small, undeveloped villages escaped these purges, but any nation bold enough to develop advanced technology became a target.

Souei's gaze shifted, his mind briefly touching on Dwargon. The mountainous fortress nation had long been a beacon of innovation. Its researchers worked tirelessly but in secret, hiding their most ambitious projects underground. Dwargon had been built within a mountain for this very reason. Its stone walls were a shield against both prying eyes and divine wrath.

And then there was Tempest, an ever-growing hub of innovation, a place where magic and technology intertwined to create wonders. Souei knew the Angels would eventually target them, and they had begun to prepare, gathering as much information as possible and mapping evacuation plans for citizens. 

But the Eastern Empire was an enigma in this regard. It flaunted its technology openly, as if daring the heavens to strike, yet the consequences of these angelic attacks had been strangely minimal.

During brief infiltrations, Souei had managed to spy on a few citizens and steal some history books. The Empire's records held an odd truth. The Angels had indeed attacked, but their destruction had been almost superficial. 

Deaths and damage had occurred, but on a lesser scale, nothing like the devastation brought upon other technologically advanced cities. For a nation so openly reliant on advanced technology, the Empire's losses were disproportionately minor.

As he looked over at the city one last time, he let out a sigh.

"It seems I am not yet strong enough…" Souei whispered as he stood up and turned around.

From within the Shadows, fifteen other members emerged.

"Lord Rimuru has ordered us to stop our infiltration for now." Souei announced. "It seems he wants to make further preparations and training before we are sent back in. Thanks to Lady Ramiris, we will be able to use the new Odin's Eye satellite to continue observing them." 

"Understood." The fifteen shadows answered in unison.

"Return to Tempest. Once we are back, take one week off before reporting for duty." Souei ordered, and in an instant, all of the Shadows vanished.

— –Kondou– —

Strolling through the prosperous halls of the Eastern Empire's palace, Tatsuya Kondou moved with silent purpose, his gaze steady and sharp, reflecting a life forged in loyalty and tempered by loss. 

His black hair, neatly combed, framed a face that showed little emotion, yet his eyes held a depth that only those who'd seen worlds fall could possess. 

In another life, he had served as a Second Lieutenant in the Royal Guard of Japan, a pilot in the Japanese Navy in a world similar to Earth, yet one that contained a trace of magicules. His world had been one of structure and duty. But that world was gone now, reduced to memory.

He recalled that day vividly. They had been fighting against an army of Phantoms, invaders from other worlds. It was absolute war, yet in the endless sky, the world was deceptively peaceful.

Then, a tremor, a shudder that rippled through the heavens and the earth alike. His instincts flared a warning that screamed into his very soul, yet there was nothing he could do. 

A blinding light erupted on the horizon, consuming the sky in an instant, and he knew with a gut-wrenching certainty that something terrible had happened. The world itself seemed to crack, a fracture in reality. His mind struggled to make sense of it, but his heart knew that his homeland, his world, was collapsing.

'This is the end.' He had thought, a pang of regret tightening his chest. He had been ready to die for his country, but this… this annihilation was beyond anything he could have foreseen. 

His loyalty, his honor, his duty, they all meant nothing in the face of such destruction. His last thought had been of his comrades, left behind in a world that no longer existed.

Then, he had opened his eyes to a new sky, a world vibrant with magicules. He was lying in the Emperor's private garden, amidst blooming flowers and enchanted trees. In that moment, disoriented and grieving, he wondered if this was some cruel afterlife. Yet, a voice broke through the haze, a calm, dignified voice offering him a hand.

The Emperor had been there, his expression warm yet unreadable. Without hesitation or question, he welcomed Kondou into his Empire. There had been no demands, no interrogation, only acceptance. 

He could only interpret it as fate, a chance to serve again, to reclaim purpose from the ashes of his lost world.

In time, he rose to the rank of First Lieutenant, the Emperor's left hand, trusted and irreplaceable. It was under his guidance that the Eastern Empire expanded its influence, not only in territory but in intelligence and deception. He had founded the Imperial Intelligence Bureau, a vast network of spies, informants, and shadow operatives that stretched across continents, silently gathering information, eliminating threats before they could reach the Empire's heart. It was a legion of eyes and ears, a testament to his strategic genius and unbreakable loyalty.

Yet despite his accomplishments, despite the unbridled potential he wielded, Kondou's loyalty to the Emperor remained absolute, a devotion untainted by ambition or greed. He wore his title as First Lieutenant not for rank or power, but as a badge of honor, a reminder of the unwavering loyalty he had once pledged to his fallen world and now extended to this new one.

He sat in his office, taking a sip of his tea and letting out a satisfied sigh.

"Tempestian tea…" He muttered as he looked down at his cup. "I wonder what surprises you'll bring…"

Then he pulled out his nambu pistol, which was one of the few things he had brought from his world. Taking out the magazine, he glanced at the remaining bullets before loading the gun one more time.

— — —

Special Thanks to my Beta Readers/Editors: The one, the only, the amazing @Basilisk, and @Kiyan Tribe (FF.net/AO3/QQ/WN) | kiyan_tribe( Discord)

Go Check out Basilisk's great story "I'm a Daemon, so what?" 

https://discord.gg/WTgN9J3YgK