Chapter 24 - Part 1 - To Svlalria

Third Person Point of View

— ○ ● ○ —

"It seems Raerea has turned her back on us, quite amusing," remarked Infersos, his tone laced with a hint of amusement, upon receiving the news from Elanor regarding the situation in Stolonium. Seated comfortably in his command center on his home planet, he surveyed the array of monitors before him. With a flick of his hand, he dismissed outdated displays, replacing them with fresh ones. "Though there's been a slight deviation, my plans remain unaffected," he mused, a sly smile dancing on his lips.

"What is shall we do, Lord Infersos?" inquired one of his subordinates.

Infersos leaned back in his chair, a sense of quiet confidence exuding from his demeanor. "We shall do nothing. Allow events to unfold naturally. Destiny is unavoidably guiding all things toward me," he declared, his grin widening.

With a respectful nod, the subordinate took their leave, leaving Infersos to his contemplations. "Every outcome is predetermined... and even the meddling of the outer gods cannot alter it either," he murmured, fixing his gaze upon an image of Aaron, feeling the weight of destiny in their shared gaze.

His gaze shifted to a specific monitor, displaying Svlalria and the Volgendurs stationed within it. A multitude of Volgendurs had been mobilized, launching attacks on various planets and factions suspected of affiliating with the Resistance.

Turning his attention back to the room, Infersos spoke to the unseen presence. "Consider this: had I not intervened to prevent your journey to Stolonium, you would have met your death alongside Furuke and the others," he stated, his tone filled with calculated certainty. Glancing behind him, he noticed the silhouette of a woman.

Hladrifa, Ueboros' highest-ranking officer, stood with her arms folded against the wall, her eyes closed in contemplation. Upon opening them and meeting Infersos' gaze, she voiced her inquiry. "I found it strange when you advised against my departure. Is this yet another glimpse into the futures you foresee or have foretold?" she questioned, her gaze sharp with scrutiny.

A sly grin appeared on Infersos' lips as he kept his gaze fixed on the glowing screen. "Your purpose remains unchanged. In the days ahead, your path will take you back to Svlalria, marking the completion of your time with us," he informed her, his words mysterious yet weighted with importance.

Perplexed by Infersos' instruction, Hladrifa sought clarification. "What do you mean?" she asked, her brow furrowing with confusion.

Infersos' smirk grew as he shook his head dismissively. "That knowledge belongs to me alone. I will not share it with you," he declared, his tone dripping with self-assurance.

Recognizing the futility of pressing for more information, Hladrifa accepted the enigma before her. With a resigned sigh, she agreed. "Very well. Though I may not understand your intentions, I will obey your command," she conceded before leaving the room.

Alone once more, Infersos' smile deepened, his thoughts concealed in secrecy. "All will unfold as destiny dictates. Soon, a long-separated family will be reunited," he murmured ominously, anticipation tingling in his veins as he refocused his attention on the display, eager to witness the upcoming outcome.

— ○ ● ○ —

Upon the sacred land of Svlalria, Queen Callorahine stood in quiet observation as the formidable Volgendurs gathered for deployment, their numbers growing with each passing moment. Only a small group of retired yet skilled warriors remained stationed, prepared to defend their homeland if necessary.

Echoes resounded in Callorahine's mind, a persistent chant urging action. [Soon...soon...soon...] it whispered with insistence.

"I am aware. We are ready if anything happens. If they do come here, they won't be welcomed nor will they come out of our planet unscathed," she replied, with a subtle anticipation underlying her words.

Turning to her attendant, a Volgendur in service to the crown, she listened to their report with a composed demeanor. "My Queen, as the last vessels depart, our numbers will diminish. We have also received word of Hladrifa's impending return to Svlalria. How shall we proceed?" inquired the loyal Volgendur.

Though taken by surprise by this unforeseen development, Callorahine maintained her royal composure, nodding in acknowledgement. "Treat her with customary respect. However, I wish to remain undisturbed by her presence for the time being," she instructed, her tone measured yet resolute.

As the young Volgendur departed, leaving Callorahine alone, she found herself gazing up at the delicate snowflakes falling from the sky. "Why are you returning now...? It's a rare occurrence..." she murmured softly to herself, feeling a subtle sense of unease settling within her.

[For them...for them...think of nothing else...do it...for them...for you...] the voice persisted, its urging persistent and malicious.

Clutching her fists tightly, Callorahine suppressed a surge of conflicting emotions, her unease growing with each passing moment. She understood the urgency of her mission, the weight of responsibility resting heavily on her shoulders. For the sake of those she held dear, and for her own sake, she could not afford to be distracted.

"...Yes, for them, for us, and for the greater good," she affirmed resolutely, her voice carrying a blend of acceptance and solemnity. With a firm resolve, she prepared herself for the challenges that lay ahead, knowing that in the end, her sacrifices would be justified.

— ○ ● ○ —

Aaron Toole's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

It had been several hours since the chaotic events in Stolonium unfolded. Predictably, Phumera wasted no time in labeling Raerea, Helapos, and Anran Wu as enemies, accusing them of rogue actions, and declaring them as targets for immediate elimination, as evident from the holographic wanted posters spread throughout the area.

Although their return to the Resistance's planet was not met with universal warmth, they found some comfort in the sympathy extended to them upon learning the truth. They were not entirely without allies.

After a brief meeting with the remaining members, I set off on a solitary journey towards a peaceful spot on the planet. With impending obligations awaiting me before my departure for Svlalria in less than a day, I realized the urgency of tending to these matters without delay.

Arriving at the peaceful spot, I leaned against a sturdy tree and let out a sigh. But my solitude was interrupted by the sensation of a cold finger poking my cheek. Sighing again, I turned to see Aoife, her crimson eyes gazing down at me with a gentle smile on her lips.

"Welcome home. I heard your trip was... less than ideal," she said, settling beside me and resting her head on my shoulder, her eyes fluttering shut in contentment.

"That's one way to put it," I replied, a hint of amusement in my voice. "Sona and Kanami's team haven't returned yet. They might be gone for a few days," I added, releasing a weary sigh.

"Mmm. That's true, but I have faith they'll be fine. They're all quite powerful, after all," Aoife reassured me with a nod, her words carrying a comforting tone.

"Yeah," I replied, my eyes scanning the vast landscape before us. The forest spread out as far as the eye could see, the perfect canvas for my vision of the new Stolonium. I could already see it, breaking free from the constraints of our original planet and expanding upwards and below ground.

Aoife broke the silence with a question, "How long do you think it will be before they come back?"

"They'll likely return in two days, so on the same day as us," I mused, considering the practicalities.

I then turned to Aoife and shared my vision of placing the new Stolonium in this tranquil setting. I showed her a holographic image of what Stolonium could become, inviting her to contemplate the possibilities.

She nodded in agreement, "Yes, I believe this location would be perfect. And why stop there? We could expand beneath the surface or even create floating districts. The potential is endless," she suggested, her eyes gleaming with excitement at the prospect.

Smiling at her infectious enthusiasm, I nodded in agreement. "You're right. I plan to create something really unique as we shape the future cities on this planet and its neighbors. The conventional designs can grow a bit boring, wouldn't you agree?"

"Simplicity definitely has its allure, but too much of it can become tiresome," Aoife agreed, her expression turning serious. "But on a different note, Aaron, there's something I need to discuss with you."

Her intense gaze fixed on me, capturing my full attention.

"You want to join me in Svlalria, right? With the Valkyrie Squad and Odin in tow, the journey promises to be rather exciting. However, we must remain vigilant, as the inhabitants there are likely to view us with hostility or, at best, have ulterior motives. We will accept their hospitality if there is any, but we must be cautious at all times," I explained, laying out the realities of our upcoming venture. Aoife nodded in understanding, indicating her agreement with my assessment.

"Yeah, you're right... I want to go with you to Svlalria. The Valkyries, Odin, and Azathoth are coming with us, right?" Aoife sought my confirmation, to which I simply nodded. "I am also interested by them, the Volgendurs. I'm certain the others are as well, but we can discuss them with the others later... Have you discussed them with Raerea and the others yet?"

Shaking my head, I replied, "Not yet. Our conversation during the meeting shifted to other topics, but I intended to bring it up with them after a short break here. I wanted to ensure they get used to their new surroundings first. Besides, I still need to recreate the city."

Aoife nodded once more and asked, "When do you plan to create it?"

"Before we leave tomorrow, I want the citizens to feel at ease in the unfamiliar environment of this planet. Creating a replica of their familiar city should help them adjust and ease the tension that exists between the current inhabitants and them. I hope that by allowing various individuals to come and go, it'll help improve relations between all of us," I explained my strategy to Aoife.

"That's a solid plan. Did you draw inspiration from Ravel or Latia? Maybe even Grayfia or Rias?" she inquired.

"...I may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but I'm capable of generating my own ideas, you know?" I retorted with a gentle flick to her forehead. "So, this plan is entirely my own. I recognize the importance of expanding my intelligence and wit, both for my personal growth and for the betterment of the omniverse. However, breaking habits can prove to be a big challenge once they become ingrained in routine."

Aoife let out a chuckle at my response and then offered an apology, "Sorry, I didn't mean to dismiss your ideas like that. But alright, can I help you in designing some elements?"

"Of course, but first... let's go and have a discussion with Raerea's group. Later, I'll have Layla join us for a bit of sparring," I suggested, causing Aoife to give me a quizzical look.

"Sparring?" she questioned, clearly puzzled by the sudden change in plans.

"Yeah. You mentioned earlier that you wanted to enhance your ability to create weapons from your elements, right? Ethereal swords, ice swords, and other items—you intend to expand your arsenal even further," I reminded her.

"Ah! That's right... I wasn't too thrilled about being defeated by 'Zero'," Aoife taunted with a smile as she got up, offering me a hand. "Let's go. I'm excited to meet the last two survivors of Raerea's group as well."

I nodded in agreement, and together we quickly left the peaceful surroundings before teleporting to Ivoryillum.

— ○ ● ○ —

Currently, I had provided living quarters for all the citizens of Stolonium, as well as Raerea and her two subordinates, in four expansive apartments. These spaces had been transformed into indoor cities, complete with shops and stores reminiscent of their lost planet using spatial manipulation, all managed by androids that I had designed.

After locating their auras, Aoife and I made our way to Raerea's official and temporary headquarters. Upon knocking on the door, we were greeted by Raerea inviting us in, and we found her seated behind her desk.

"Oh... Aaron, did you need something?" Raerea asked, her attention shifting from her work to acknowledge our presence. Anran Wu and Helapos were seated on two of the three couches in the room, with a circular table in the center.

To my surprise, I saw Shin nestled in Anran Wu's lap, seemingly enjoying the puppy's attention. Meanwhile, Helapos was indulging in various sweets, revealing a notable sweet tooth.

"Hey there, just wanted to check in about those troublemaking Volgendurs," I interjected, joining Helapos and Anran Wu. I settled in beside Helapos, who kindly offered me a piece of candy, which I happily accepted. Meanwhile, the duo in front of us were showering Shin with attention, and he seemed to be enjoying every moment of it.

"...Are you referring to the warning the Volgendurs gave us before we visited my former planet? What's on your mind about them?" Raerea paused her task, giving me her full attention.

Ever since I decided not to suppress Raerea's powers after she sided with us, she seemed to be back in her element. I gave a confident nod before replying, "I'll take any information you've got. I'm planning to pay a visit to their planet tomorrow, and I'm preparing myself for whatever they throw at us. I'm expecting a chilly reception, to say the least."

Raerea nodded thoughtfully, her brow furrowing in contemplation. However, Helapos interjected with a more matter-of-fact tone, "You're aware their queen and leader goes by the name Callorahine. She's reputed as the mightiest Volgendur in their history, surpassing even their esteemed founding leader in sheer power and influence."

Anran Wu added to the conversation, her tone more grounded and informative, "According to Lord Virion, Callorahine possesses unparalleled proficiency in ice manipulation, making her a troublesome and powerful enemy. Moreover, the Volgendurs are adept at wielding darkness and shadows, harnessing their innate abilities to deadly effect. It's worth noting that flight comes naturally to all Volgendurs from birth."

Raerea, her expression somber and serious, contributed further insight, "Rumors circulating among the Eradicators suggest that Callorahine may have undergone a mysterious mutation, although concrete details remain elusive. Given the events of today, it's plausible that Elanor, Ecthrois, and Infersos possess valuable information that could shed light on this matter."

"Mutation, huh?" I repeated, shifting my gaze away as a spark of understanding ignited within me. "Even the most mundane details could hold significant value, so please share."

"I once had the opportunity to visit Svlalria with Lord Virion, and let me tell you, it was a truly remarkable experience," Anran Wu interjected, capturing our attention. "Unlike our isolated metropolis, Svlalria is home to several expansive cities scattered across its landscape, all interconnected by extensive rail networks. In total, there are four bustling cities on that planet, not including the fifth in the middle."

Pausing for emphasis, Anran Wu looked at each of us before continuing, passing the conversation over to Aoife. "The central city serves as the focal point, housing Queen Callorahine and the majority of the high-ranking individuals. Each of the other cities is governed by a mayor, all of whom pledge extreme loyalty to the queen and work diligently under her command."

"To the top left sits Aetherreach, a city devoted to researching into alchemy and magic sourced from other universes," elaborated Anran Wu. "Unfortunately, I cannot offer much insight as our visit did not take us there. Moving on, the city in the top right corner is Havskulle, specializing in agriculture and climate control to adapt to the ever-changing seasons."

"I have to mention that during the winter months, temperatures plummet to subzero levels, while summers scorch with intense heat. Therefore, maintaining Havskulle's functionality is crucial for the Volgendurs," Anran Wu emphasized the significance of Havskulle's role.

Continuing her informative discourse, Anran Wu shed light on the remaining cities. "Now, onto the bottom left, we have Finhöll, an entertainment district primarily known for its arenas hosting battles and establishments of a more... intimate nature. It's a lively hub, to say the least. And finally, in the bottom right, lies Jotundvik, a sprawling complex serving as both a massive hospital and a residential area. Although homes are scattered throughout the other cities, Jotundvik stands out for its size and purpose."

With Shin in her embrace, Aoife asked, "What about the main city?"

Anran Wu's smile was gentle as he replied, "Ah, that would be Tidsfrosset By. It's a strange name, but I've never gone into its origins. Our purpose there was to learn a particular technique often used by Callorahine. The process took us about two days before we departed. They showed us great respect, in honor of Lord Virion's esteemed status."

'Tidsfrosset By... sounds like Norwegian,' I pondered silently. 'Translated, it means 'Time Frozen City.' I wonder if Callorahine gave it the name, or if it originated with the first queen of their kind. It's a curious thought, one that deserves further investigation, though perhaps best left for another time.'

Aoife cocked her head, her gaze silently questioning whether I was familiar with the city's name. I responded with a subtle nod, acknowledging her unspoken query.

"Our encounters with the Volgendurs have differed from our previous ventures to other planets," I mused. "Our objectives have been singular: either to win them over to our cause or to neutralize them entirely. But with the Volgendurs, it feels different. I want to approach them with the intent to comprehend their motivations and perhaps stop this needless conflict."

Raerea let out a weary sigh. "That's easier said than done. The Volgendurs are a proud and tenacious bunch, yet they're not devoid of reason. If, by some stroke of luck, they, or their queen, are open to negotiation, you might find yourself engaged in a remarkably civilized discussion. However, if not, be prepared to meet them head-on in battle, for they will accept nothing less."

"Lord Virion shared some similar insights with me," chimed in Anran Wu. "Now, I can't vouch for the Valkyries of your realm, but when it comes to the Volgendurs, they have a rather distinct approach to facing their fate. It's either honorable combat or nothing at all for them. They tend to dwell in absolute extremes, which might baffle those on the outside looking in. However, as Madame pointed out, they're rational beings once you've earned their respect."

Intrigued, I delved deeper, "What about their chain of command? Are there specific figures or groups we should keep an eye on? Any noteworthy underlings, local myths, or native creatures we should be mindful of?"

Raerea shook her head gently. "There are four captains, each leading their own unit. They'll probably stay put to fortify the planet's defenses. The same goes for retired Volgendurs; even though they're no longer on active duty, they still pack a serious punch in combat and won't hesitate to intervene if necessary."

"Seems like we're in for more trouble soon," Aoife remarked, a furrow forming on her brow as worry creased her features. "But we're still in the dark, aren't we? No clear picture of what's coming our way."

Anran Wu's expression softened with regret as she shook her head. "Unfortunately, that's the case. Our trip was all about grabbing a specific technique for Lord Virion's arsenal, and we were kept on a tight leash the whole time. I tried digging for more, but came up empty-handed."

Aoife turned to Raerea, her eyes searching for any glimmer of hope or insight. "What about you, Raerea? Any scoop on these captains? Maybe something about their skills or any other useful info?"

Raerea took a moment, pondering Aoife's question before sighing heavily. "I can't say for sure if this person's a captain, but rumors are swirling about a Volgendur who wields something called a whip sword. It's supposed to be both a whip and a sword, but the details are sketchy. Unfortunately, I don't have much more to go on right now."

"I... also caught wind of some rumors during one of my attendance at Madame's meetings," Helapos admitted, his voice wavering slightly. "As you know, Volgendurs are exclusively female, so they sometimes resort to bringing in or abducting males to propagate offspring. There have been murmurs about a hybrid within their ranks, but the specifics of this hybrid's characteristics remained vague, as the rumors tended to shift."

"In your observations, did you notice any recurring themes or details among these rumors?" I asked, hoping for more concrete information.

Helapos paused for a moment, his eyes fixed on the table as he pondered his thoughts. Eventually, he nodded slightly. "...Yes, there were. Some of the rumors mentioned a hybrid resembling a Volgendur with scales, reminiscent of the 'snakes' from your universe."

"T-they got freaky with a snake...?" Aoife gasped in shock, her disbelief evident in her tone.

"I've had sex with Ophis and she's a dragon, Aoife," I chimed in, intrigued by her surprise. "So, is it really that surprising for the Volgendurs to engage with serpent-like beings or entities resembling them?" I arched an eyebrow, curious about her reaction.

Aoife hesitated, her expression betraying her discomfort. "But gods and goddesses are usually depicted as more human-like! I could understand if it were a humanoid snake, maybe," she countered.

"Can we truly comprehend the forms of gods and goddesses?" I interjected, offering a different perspective. "In my experiences, entities like Azathoth initially manifested as colossal eyes, gradually taking on humanoid shapes over time. It wasn't until later that I even discerned any gender."

Aoife fell silent, appearing to mull over my words. "I suppose the beings the Volgendurs associate with were probably advanced civilizations of 'snakes,' with humanoid forms. It's likely that the Volgendurs seek out individuals capable of assuming such forms, or at least those with the potential to do so," Helapos clarified, sharing his thoughts on the matter.

"How did we end up on this topic? Can we... return to the original one...?" Anran Wu inquired, her cheeks tinged with a hint of embarrassment.

"It's relevant since we were discussing the hybrid, but we are slightly veering off-topic. Nevertheless, that's all we know about them. They're quite reserved as they seldom interact with others unless it's necessary," Raerea interjected, attempting to guide the conversation back on course.

"It seems that way. I'll go and do my own research then, thanks," I responded, rising from my seat, with Aoife following suit. "Oh, right, I'll rebuild Stolonium with a few new additions later in the day so all of you can move back in."

They were taken aback by the gesture but also nodded their heads in gratitude. "I see... thank you again, Aaron," Raerea expressed with a sincere smile on her lips.

"Mmm," Aoife and I exited the room, entering the maze-like confines of the impromptu indoor city. Accompanied by the hustle and bustle of the corridors, we garnered a few curious glances, but largely remained inconspicuous, blending into the scene of the surroundings.

"Do you have any inkling about who or what they might be?" Aoife interjected, intertwining her fingers with mine as we strolled along.

"Right now? Not really. I haven't taken the time to investigate since…" I trailed off, allowing my gaze to wander without purpose.

"Since?" Aoife prodded, her head tilting inquisitively.

I met her gaze briefly before shifting my eyes away. I hadn't delved into the matter since the strange woman in my dreams warned against it, or rather, the lingering unease associated with the notion. However, my curiosity had been sparked by other avenues. "Since that woman in my dreams advised against it, or at least the sensation persisted, although I did explore other avenues out of sheer curiosity. Maybe I should go into it soon since it'll just nag at me… I'll tackle it tonight, why not."

"That woman... who are you talking about?" Aoife inquired, a puzzled expression crossing her features, evident in the furrow of her brow.

After a moment of consideration, I let out a sigh before responding, "Not here. Let's find somewhere else." With a fluid motion, I transported us back to the same spot we had previously occupied, the very location where I intended to rebuild Stolonium. Once settled, I began to elaborate.

I went into the depths of our conversation, recounting every detail Esina and I had covered: the mysterious Saerstials, the odd woman whom we suspected to be the Keeper of the Eternal Flame, and the cryptic events that had unfolded in my dreams, pondering their potential implications for the future.

"Can I come? You know… into your dreams, if it does happen," Aoife asked, her eyes glimmering with curiosity and anticipation. "Ah! And no lewd dreams, alright?" she added, a playful grin dancing across her lips.

Extending my hand, I gently tapped her forehead. "I don't have inappropriate dreams. But, of course, I'm open to exploring this further. Just, I'd prefer it if this stays between us until I have a clearer picture. Once I've had a chance to meet her and converse, then I can go deeper. But for now, I'll reserve my judgment."

"Is it your intuition guiding you?" she inquired, massaging her forehead with a playful glare.

"More or less, yes. It's a gut feeling, albeit a somewhat unsettling one. Yet, it carries a sense of positivity, if you catch my drift," I responded, acknowledging Aoife's understanding with a nod.

"In that case, let's go on a journey into your dreams! It's been a while, so I'm eager! Come to think of it... I haven't dreamt since I was brought back to life," she mused, her expression marked by puzzlement.

"And I was the complete opposite. I suppose being fully aware of the truth makes us just like any other regular human, right? But let's not dwell on it too much. It just so happens that you'll be sleeping with me tonight along with the others, so everything will work out," I remarked with a light chuckle, attempting to lift the atmosphere. "Since we're both here, let's start strategizing for the new Stolonium, and I'll start the rebuilding process before we retire for the night."

"Great!" Aoife exclaimed enthusiastically, eager to contribute to the city's redesign and reconstruction efforts.

We spent the ensuing hours seated beneath the tree, meticulously reviewing the blueprints and integrating various enhancements into the design. Among the innovations, we incorporated floating districts supported by magic and interconnected via teleporters, along with an underground sector reminiscent of earlier concepts we had contemplated.

— ○ ● ○ —

Later that evening, just before retiring for the night, I decided to take a leisurely stroll through Ivoryillum. It was then that I came across BoomBoom, also known as Hensworth Lebyorn. He seemed deep in thought, but when he saw me, he hurried over. Without hesitation, he took my arm and led me away.

I agreed to let him guide me, allowing him to pull me along until we were hidden behind a nearby building. There, he looked around cautiously before letting out a heavy sigh. "I find myself in need of assistance," he confessed in a quiet voice.

"In what way?" I asked, encouraging him to share more.

"Before leaving my home planet, I acquired a device similar to a surveillance tool, monitoring certain individuals in my life. However, upon my arrival here, I lost it. Recently, while cleaning up the chaos of my workshop, I came across it. Taking your previous advice to heart, I've decided to engage with the local researchers earnestly, focusing on various projects," he explained.

"Um... well, you see, when I stumbled upon this gadget and started sifting through its records and messages, I couldn't shake this growing worry about someone dear to me," he admitted, his face clouded with concern as he took a brief pause. "They've been captured by one of those Volgendur fellows during their raids across different planets they suspect of siding with us," he elaborated, his distress evident.

"They're young, really young, just about your age, I reckon. I've caught wind that you might be heading there yourself. Is that true? If it is, I'm begging you... please, rescue them," he implored, bowing his head in a plea.

With a sigh of resignation, I asked, "Can you tell me anything about them? Like their name, what they look like, or any other helpful details?"

BoomBoom reached into his pocket and retrieved a photo, passing it over to me. The image captured the likeness of a young person, roughly my age, sporting neatly trimmed gray hair and piercing blue eyes. Clad in a crisp white lab coat, complemented by black trousers and brown shoes, the individual exuded a lot of confidence. Balancing two books in one arm, they held a lollipop in the other hand.

"This is Iviken," BoomBoom shared with a hint of solemnity. "He began his journey under my mentorship before encountering some setbacks. He possessed a very curious mind and proved to be remarkably dependable. I held great confidence in his potential for success. Regrettably, his stubbornness led him astray, falling prey to negative influences," he lamented.

"Would he agree to being rescued?" I asked, my interest piqued by the complexities of Iviken's character. Although I was curious about his ties to Boom—to Hensworth, I opted not to go deeper into the matter.

"Understood, I will ensure his safe return," I asserted with conviction. "I might even consider teleporting him directly to circumvent any potential resistance. However, if he adamantly refuses..."

"That should be fine. He will probably insist on accompanying you, as he's not one to back down from challenges. I suspect that trait is what got him into this predicament in the first place," Hensworth commented with a resigned sigh.

"Well, considering the stubborn nature of many individuals on this planet, it's hardly surprising," I remarked with a slight smile. "Rest assured, I'll see to it that he returns safely. Is there anything else you need, Hensworth?" I inquired, my expression reflecting genuine concern as I met his gaze.

"If possible, I'd also like to acquire some of the Volgendurs' data on their alchemy and magic," Hensworth disclosed, his eyes alight with scholarly curiosity. "I've been exploring the intricacies of magic in your universe, and I find it absolutely fascinating—particularly the subtle differences among the various species. The distinctions between Divine, Angelic, Demonic, Youkai, and Human magic are truly remarkable and captivating," he added, nodding thoughtfully to himself.

"Is that so? Well, feel free to seek assistance from any member of [DxD], but do obtain their consent beforehand," I advised, to which he readily agreed. "Anyway, I have to take my leave now; there are pressing matters that demand my attention."

"Is that the city you built earlier?" he asked. "I'm interested in setting up a base there too. It seems like the former second-in-command of the Eradicators is looking for a reliable scientist and researcher in their new settlement."

Stopping in my tracks, I turned to face him. "You want to work with Raerea?" I inquired, and he nodded eagerly.

"We already have a team of scientists working with Savina and her group, but I feel it's right for me to offer my expertise to Raerea's cause. Plus, with Azazel and the others dealing with other matters, my workload there is quite light," he explained.

"I don't see any reason to object. Come with me then; since Raerea and her group have probably moved to the city, we should find her there with the others," I told him, and we quickly set off for New Stolonium.

— ○ ● ○ —

As we stepped foot in New Stolonium, the sight that greeted us felt simultaneously familiar and altered. The sky above was adorned with floating sections emitting a radiant glow, a stark contrast to what I remembered. Additional structures now housed the security personnel stationed here, hinting at changes in the city's dynamics.

"Well, this is quite different from what I remember," commented Hensworth, his hand gently stroking his chin in fascination as he took in the scene.

"Have you been to Stolonium before?" I inquired, genuinely curious about his past experiences in this intriguing place.

"Hmm, yes. It was a brief visit in the past. I had exchanged ideas with the late Furuke. Whether he had already succumbed to madness by then or remained to his former self, I cannot say. Nevertheless, he harbored ambitious aspirations," explained Hensworth, his tone tinged with nostalgia as he reminisced about his previous interaction with Furuke who we recently killed.

"Alright, let's keep going. Raerea, Anran Wu, and Helapos are still hanging out over there," I mentioned, nodding towards the trio as they watched over their city from the entrance.

As we neared them, they promptly acknowledged our approach, turning to greet us. Before I could say anything, Raerea stepped up and pulled me into a hug, which caught me a bit by surprise. Nevertheless, I returned the embrace, sharing a laugh. "What was that all about?" I asked.

"...You reconstructed it to resemble the original while adding some upgrades. We had been thinking about making these improvements earlier, but Furuke kept putting them off. Now, we see why he hesitated. Also... I wanted to thank you for rebuilding the orphanage," she admitted, her smile radiating sincerity.

I nodded in affirmation before elaborating, "Yeah, you're right, those were the original plans. Aoife's contributions proved invaluable, particularly concerning the design of the floating districts and underground sectors. We've substantially fortified the city's defenses too, ensuring they meet the standards observed across the planets under our jurisdiction. That said, BoomBoom here has some matters to discuss with all of you."

"Boom...boom?" Raerea repeated, her brow furrowing with confusion as she turned to Hensworth. "Ah, Professor Hensworth... I wasn't aware of your presence on this planet following your disappearance. Our paths didn't cross during my brief time here, did they?" she inquired, seeking clarification from Hensworth.

Hensworth shook his head subtly, dispelling any misconceptions that may have lingered. "No, our paths never intersected during that period. I hesitated to seek you out after your visit to our planet, uncertain of your return. However, I'm here today with a proposition," he stated, drawing their attention. "I propose to take on the role of lead researcher and scientist within your city. This offer comes solely from my own volition, not at Aaron's request."

Raerea was taken aback by the unexpected proposal, her silence echoing her surprise as she fixed a steady gaze on Hensworth. After a moment of contemplation, she nodded in agreement. "Very well. I have no objections to your proposition. But may I ask why you're here...? I thought you had perished, or at least, been captured by Ecthrois and imprisoned within Mystara," she inquired, seeking clarity on Hensworth's sudden reappearance.

"I managed to avoid capture and roamed without direction until I stumbled upon this place. I adopted the guise of feigned insanity, keeping to myself and grappling with the task of devising a plan to return to Mystara, my homeland. Alas, my endeavors proved fruitless, and I succumbed to despair," Hensworth admitted, his voice carrying a hint of sadness.

Gazing up at the sky, he released a solemn sigh. "It was then that I resolved to take on the persona of 'BoomBoom,' speaking in the third person and simulating madness to conceal my true identity and avoid detection. That is, until Sir Aaron here sought me out," he elaborated, a nostalgic chuckle escaping him.

Raerea, Anran Wu, and Helapos exchanged incredulous glances, silently seeking confirmation from me. I responded with a nod, affirming Hensworth's narrative, which only deepened their amazement. It seemed that Hensworth's renown exceeded my initial assessment.

Facing them once more, his expression shifted to one of earnestness. "That is precisely my reason for being here. The Resistance has garnered the support of their own scientists and the researchers of [DxD]. I wish to offer my assistance to you, much as I once did in discussions with the late Furuke," Hensworth explained with a sense of solemnity.

Their astonishment was once again palpable, yet Raerea quickly composed herself to reply. "Very well, Professor Hensworth. I graciously accept your offer of help. Your expertise and accomplishments precede you, and your presence in our city will undoubtedly prove invaluable. Will you then become my subordinate as well?" she inquired.

Hensworth returned her smile with a respectful nod. "I would be honored to do so, Madame Raerea," he affirmed, lowering himself into a kneeling position before her.

"All's well that ends well, wouldn't you agree?" I interjected, eliciting chuckles from the group as we embraced the promising future that lay ahead.

"Alright, I'll leave the matters here to you all. I just wanted to quickly ensure everything is running smoothly in the city. I'll touch base again before we set off tomorrow," I conveyed, expressing appreciation as they acknowledged my words. However, just as I was about to leave, Anran Wu caught hold of my arm and motioned for me to step aside.

"Do you need something, Anran Wu?" I inquired, attentive to her needs.

"You're an Outer God and a dragon, am I correct, Aaron?" she asked, to which I nodded in confirmation. "In that case, would you be able to teach me in techniques similar to those?"

"...Could you elaborate on what you mean?" I asked, puzzled by her request. "Are you referring to abilities commonly associated with dragons? Or perhaps techniques that change one's aura and energy into draconic forms?"

"Sort of a mix, I guess," Anran Wu elucidated, her words sparking a curiosity within me. "Lord Virion's distinct species gave him with an array of unconventional attacks and techniques. He'd pick up some from other species, then seamlessly incorporate or adapt them into his own arsenal. It made me ponder."

Her proposition intrigued me further. While my knowledge of dragon-based or styled martial arts from my past life was limited, the vast omniverse surely held a trove of techniques waiting to be uncovered. Observing her intently, I inquired, "But isn't your primary focus on styles like crane or snake?"

An affirmative nod followed by her response, "Yeah, you're right, that's what Lord Virion emphasized for me to master initially, and I believe I've already done that. However, I now seek to go into uncharted territories. Could you guide me?" she asked.

Considering her request, I offered, "I don't mind. I'm planning a short training session tonight with Aoife to hone her abilities. You're more than welcome to join us; we'll be starting soon."

With a smile stretched across her face, Anran Wu went back to Raerea to relay the situation, quickly returning. "I'm prepared!" she declared with enthusiasm, wasting no time. Together, we went towards the diverse training grounds spread across the planet. Tonight's destination in particular was in Ivoryillum.

— ○ ● ○ —

"Hey Aar—oh, Anran Wu is joining us?" Aoife inquired as we arrived at the training grounds. She was with Shin, and the puppy was nestled in her arms, both of them regarding us with curious tilts of their heads. The training area was nestled within a natural landscape, surrounded by trees and rocky formations, remnants of the planet's eventful past.

"Yes, I just got back from New Stolonium, and Anran Wu asked for some help," I explained, conveying the information to Aoife, who nodded in understanding.

"In that case, we can train together! Right, Shin?" Aoife exclaimed, eliciting a happy bark from the puppy.

I chuckled at their enthusiasm and nodded. "Alright, let's begin. Stand beside her, Anran Wu," I instructed, prompting her to take her place alongside Aoife. With everyone positioned and ready, our training session commenced, infused with curiosity and excitement.

As I extended my finger towards Aoife, I began sharing a trove of knowledge with her, showing various techniques and abilities drawn from different universes. I referenced the anime we'd watched, the manga and light novels we'd read deeply into, and the games we'd immersed ourselves in, urging her to take inspiration from those experiences.

"Ah! I almost forgot! I can even mimic 'her,' can't I!? Well... technically, I am her, but it slipped my mind since it's what I saw every day!" exclaimed Aoife, her excitement palpable.

I couldn't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm, acknowledging her realization. "Yes, you can replicate her abilities as well. Feel free to draw upon any inspiration you've encountered, and let's see what you can accomplish," I encouraged, eager to witness her growth and exploration of her vast potential.

The individual referred to as "her" happened to be Jingliu, embodying the very essence of her physical body. I didn't plan on rebuffing her request, acknowledging the high probability of encountering them all at some stage in our infinite lives. Going into those universes in the times ahead undoubtedly sat on my agenda once the current circumstances stabilized. Perhaps, in the future, I could even bring our children with us to those worlds... such a plan sounded really fun.

[Are you planning on giving out paternal wisdom like an elder sage, Partner?] Ddraig joked, his demeanor infused with levity.

'Well, I plan on being a good parent, so why not?' I retorted, stealing a glance at Anran Wu. Uncertainty clouded my mind regarding the abilities and techniques to offer her in this particular moment.

Numerous techniques and abilities floated to mind, among them the renowned "Dragon Fist technique" from Dragon Ball. However, most other techniques bearing the moniker "dragon" appeared to be integrated into broader techniques rather than existing as distinct moves in their own right. Moreover, even techniques labeled as "dragon" were not consistently centered solely on draconic themes.

After going into the expansive archives of the omniverse and its vast repositories of techniques, abilities, and skills, I stumbled upon several options that might be suitable for her. But before presenting them to her, I inquired, "Do you have any plans on changing your physical body? Perhaps, modifying your shape or size."

"H-huh? N-no, I don't think so. Why do you ask?" she responded, her confusion unmistakable in her voice.

"Some techniques might need a body of different proportions, you know? Can you see Virion doing graceful movements like a ballerina?" Aoife quipped, stifling a giggle.

"...You know, I might not have the faintest clue about what a ballerina does, seeing as it sounds like it's more feminine," Anran Wu remarked thoughtfully, "but I see where you're coming from. My stance on this remains the same. I could really use your expertise in finding techniques that align with my current physique!" Anran Wu's enthusiasm was palpable as she made her declaration.

Fully in accord with her sentiment, I gestured towards her, ready to impart a plethora of moves, techniques, and skills tailored to harness dragon-like abilities. Anran Wu's eyes lit up with the excitement of a child as she eagerly soaked in this newfound knowledge.

"Why don't you give them a try first, and then I can offer some guidance?" I proposed. Wasting no time, they each claimed their own space and unleashed the techniques they had just acquired. I swiftly erected protective barriers around each training area to safeguard against any unintended damage from their unleashed power.

— ○ ● ○ —

Thirty minutes passed, and their pace in demolishing the training area began to slow down as they gradually adapted to the new techniques they were experimenting with.

[Looks like they're managing well. Anran Wu is showing considerable proficiency as well; she's adapting to her abilities rather quickly. I had a feeling of Aoife's potential from our previous sparring session after her revival, and she certainly possesses a talent for rapid learning and mastery,] remarked Ddraig, while Albion and I stood alongside him.

"Aoife's natural talent has always shone through. I simply amplified it with my abilities, enabling her to grasp almost anything in the blink of an eye. She consistently outshines me in numerous regards before my reincarnation," I responded, my gaze lingering on the pair. "And Anran Wu... it appears to be a blend of dedicated training and natural talent. Perhaps I should consider granting her access to the darkness and shadow manipulation unique to her universe—Azathoth mentioned she was an anomaly, not inherently possessing it."

{According to her companions' observations, she adapted admirably when using it, even increasing her strength, as if it were a seamless extension of her abilities,} Albion chimed in.

Suddenly, our attention was drawn upward as Aoife leaped into the air, wielding a blade of ice. With a mischievous grin directed at us, she swung the blade, unleashing multiple aura slashes in the form of ice towards our direction.

[Round two!? Let's go!] exclaimed Ddraig, his voice brimming with excitement as he leaped towards the incoming attacks, enveloping his body in flames that rapidly melted the icy attacks.

He hurled himself towards Aoife, his fist crackling with draconic energy, but she effortlessly evaded his strike, even while airborne. Creating a small platform of ice beside her, she used it to propel herself towards Ddraig, who adjusted his trajectory to meet her head-on.

With a mighty roar, Ddraig unleashed a volley of fireballs towards her, yet Aoife replicated her earlier tactic, summoning small ice platforms in the sky to maneuver through his attacks with grace, elegantly dodging every fiery projectile aimed her way.

[Look at you, putting on a show like that!] exclaimed Ddraig, excitement evident as he decided to wield his own sword. Promptly conjuring a blade of flames, he met Aoife's sword with his own, creating a clash of flames and ice in the air. [I'm the swordsman now!]

Aoife smiled in response, her voice tinged with amusement. "Aaron turned you into the Heavenly Dragon Meme Emperor. I'm not entirely sure if that's a good thing or not..." With a subtle push, she managed to nudge Ddraig back slightly, showcasing her skill.

[They're really funny! Well, some of them are downright weird, but still amusing!] Ddraig remarked before allowing his sword to erupt in a fiery explosion, propelling them both backward. [I won't stop, though. I'll keep going deeper into the world of memes! Hell, I'll even pass down my meme wisdom to his children one day!]

Albion cast a concerned glance in my direction and inquired with a hint of apprehension, {Are you going to allow him to do that...?}

"I mean, even if I tried to put a stop to him, he'd still find a way to pass on his meme expertise to my future kids. So, it's kind of pointless to even try," I said with a tired smile, acknowledging the inevitable reality.

Albion chuckled in agreement. {I totally get where you're coming from.}

Meanwhile, the showdown between Ddraig and Aoife was still going strong, with fire and ice swirling around them. Anran Wu watched in awe, clearly impressed by the spectacle even from within my protective barrier. Though she stayed put, you could tell she felt the huge gap in power between herself and the two fighters.

As the fight went on, it eventually ended with both of them stepping back, sharing a grin that spoke volumes of mutual respect.

[You didn't fully utilize your powers. It's as if you weren't taking me seriously at all,] remarked Ddraig, his tone tinged with a bit of annoyance.

"Well, you didn't either, so don't complain," retorted Aoife, as Shin emerged from her shadows, leaping into her arms as she dispelled her ice sword.

[Fair point. But that's okay for now. I've had my fun. However, I expect a real rematch in the future!] declared Ddraig, to which Aoife readily agreed. With that settled, Ddraig made his way back to us, his demeanor exuding a sense of triumph as he pumped his fist in the air.

[How did it go?] he inquired, prompting a confused response from Albion.

{How did what go...?}

Ddraig furrowed his brow at Albion, his incredulous expression speaking volumes. [I was only measuring her adjustment to the new techniques and her proficiency level on them. You didn't actually think I would engage her in a fight without a reason, did you?] he questioned, his tone laced with disbelief.

Albion and I exchanged a skeptical glance, unconvinced by Ddraig's explanation. His lips twitched slightly as he raised his hands in surrender. [Alright, fine! I might have enjoyed the opportunity to fight her, but I genuinely wanted to assess her abilities, alright!] he conceded, prompting laughter from all of us.

After some playful banter at Ddraig's expense, Aoife and Anran Wu approached us. Anran Wu, however, seemed lost in thought, her gaze fixed on the ground for a moment.

"I will continue honing my skills with these newfound powers. Thank you," Anran Wu expressed with a respectful bow before taking her leave. "I'll see you all tomorrow. Good night."

As Anran Wu departed, there was a moment where it seemed she had something on her mind, but I chose not to pry for details. Sometimes, it's best to let things unfold naturally.

Ddraig and Albion transformed into small orbs of light, returning to their respective Sacred Gears within me, leaving only Aoife, Shin, and myself.

"So—" I began, but Aoife eagerly interjected, grabbing my arm.

"Time to meet that person in your dreams, let's go!" she exclaimed, with Shin adding his enthusiastic howl.

Chuckling at their excitement, I agreed. "Alright, but there's no guarantee she'll communicate with me tonight, as I haven't seen her since then," I explained, to which Aoife nodded in understanding.

— ○ ● ○ —

"Hmm... so is this how it usually is?" Aoife asked as we stood in a featureless white void.

We had gone to bed earlier, accompanied by a few others, and now we found ourselves in my dream. But unlike my previous dreams, this one seemed to lack any significant content.

I shook my head in response to Aoife's question and began to explain, "No, usually it's—" But before I could finish my sentence, the dream suddenly shifted around us. Aoife walked over to me, taking in her surroundings as the landscape transformed into the familiar setting where I had encountered the Keeper of the Eternal Flame.

A radiant light appeared in the distance, capturing our attention. However, as the scenery changed, Aoife vanished without a trace. I let out a sigh and muttered, "You don't want anyone else here yet?" Yet, to my dismay, there was no response.

"Very well, I will respect your silence for now. But be warned, if you continue to withhold information, I will not hesitate to resort to more forceful methods. I am only doing this alone for your sake, as well as out of my own insatiable curiosity," I declared, pausing for emphasis. <<Don't push your luck,>> I added firmly, sensing a subtle agreement and apology from the mysterious being.

"And what about now? Will you show me something of significance? Or tell me anything at all? When will this happen? On which planet? At what time? And who will I encounter?" I pushed, unable to contain my intense curiosity. After a moment of silence, flames appeared in front of me, forming into letters that formed a puzzling sentence.

[Soon. Stand your ground against Pilinalis.]

Those were the words presented to me, and no more. Then, once again, everything fell silent, leaving me to contemplate their significance.

"Pilinalis?" I repeated aloud, but there was no response forthcoming. "I'll assume it's the same as you then, a Saerstial," I concluded, addressing the mysterious entity.

With those words, I began to stride towards the hill once more, the flaming orb still radiating brightly atop its peak. As I drew nearer, the warmth intensified, enveloping not just my skin but also my very soul. However, upon attempting to pass by the foot of the hill, an invisible force of flames gently repelled me, denying me access.

The words "Not the right time" echoed in my mind as I stood there, gazing up at the hill once more. This time, the figure of the Keeper of the Eternal Flames stared back down at me.

"Not yet, huh?" I repeated, to which the figure nodded solemnly. "Fine... I'll leave for now," I declared, accepting the situation and turning to depart.

Just as suddenly as the scenery had shifted before, the surroundings changed back to the white void. Aoife, standing a short distance away, looked visibly bewildered.

"Huh!? W-when did you get over there!?" she exclaimed, her confusion evident. Rushing over to me, she grabbed my wrists and examined my body. "Are you okay!? One second you were here, and then the next, you blinked out of existence and arrived here!"

"...You don't remember?" I asked, prompting her to tilt her head in confusion.

"Remember? Remember what? We just came here, and I went over to you, but you just... froze for a few seconds, then disappeared," replied Aoife, her confusion mirroring my own.

Letting out a tired sigh, I shook my head and proceeded to explain what had happened. Once she understood the situation, she crossed her arms in defiant annoyance. "Hmph! Why would they do that? I'm trustworthy!" she exclaimed, sounding rather irritated.

"Well... there's not much for us to do here now. Let's just get some sleep," I suggested, and Aoife nodded in agreement. With that, we quickly drifted out of the dream.

But the name the Keeper of the Eternal Flame had given me—Pilinalis—kept echoing in my mind. I wondered if I would come across them on the next planet, or if they resided in Etoce Rhirlara, alongside Taphelis and the two teams there. Yet, considering the warning directed solely at me, I doubted their presence in that world.

— ○ ● ○ —

The following day arrived, and excitement buzzed in the air as we prepared to set off on our journey, eager to reach Svlalria. Our group had grown in size with the addition of the Valkyrie Squad, Azathoth, Aoife, and Odin.

Odin, in particular, seemed like a child set free in a candy store upon being transported into this universe. He zipped around excitedly, thoroughly examining his new surroundings, with Rossweisse and Brynhildr trailing after him.

After an hour of exploring, Odin reluctantly pulled himself away from his investigation, recognizing the urgent matters at hand. Addressing the group, I cautioned, "Expect hostility above all else. Considering that Suzaku has killed one of their own, I doubt we'll be welcomed as honored guests, unless the queen has different plans for us and is putting on an act."

"Also... old man," I added, speaking to the Chief God of the Norse Pantheon, "don't fall for any of the Volgendurs' beauty, alright?"

"Brat! I'm still right in the head in age and am perfectly capable of self-control!" Odin retorted, though his gaze continued to linger on the women around us, who either smiled at him or looked away in annoyance.

Letting out a resigned sigh, I turned to Brynhildr and Rossweisse and inquired, "Can I leave you two with him, Rose, Zel?"

"I don't mind. I am accustomed to dealing with Odin-sama," both Rossweisse and Brynhildr replied simultaneously.

"I am not a child! I am capable of taking care of myself!" Odin protested, his annoyance evident in his tone.

"Well, we will be traveling in groups or pairs, so no complaining. I am assigning them to you, geezer," I retorted, dismissing his protests and emphasizing the necessity of the arrangement.

After Odin grumbled a bit, he finally agreed to the arrangement without any further protest. With that settled, I proceeded to assign the teams for our journey.

— ○ ● ○ —

Team 1 – Aaron and Schwertleite

Team 2 – Azathoth, Aoife and Göndul

Team 3 – Rossweisse, Odin, Brynhildr

Team 4 – Grimgerde, Helmwige and Ortlinde

— ○ ● ○ —

Initially, I had intended to go alone, but following Azathoth's cryptic advice, I decided to include Schwertleite in my team. Despite her reluctance to explain, I trusted her judgment and blindly selected my companion by drawing a name from a hat.

"Are you all okay with that?" I asked, seeking confirmation from the group. Everyone seemed to be in agreement, though Helmwige appeared less than thrilled, her expression betraying a hint of discontent.

"If you want to switch, Helmwige, we can," Schwertleite offered, sensing Helmwige's reluctance.

"N-no, it's fine," Helmwige replied, feeling slightly embarrassed by her reaction. She then offered a small apology for her behavior.

"Ready?" I asked, receiving nods from everyone except Odin, who had a question for me. "What's the problem, geezer?"

"You mentioned they'll be hostile, and I'm okay with that, but where exactly are we going to arrive at? I doubt you're going to just blindly teleport us into the main city," he pondered, his hand stroking his chin.

"Ah, that's right. We won't be teleporting there. We're taking a spaceship," I clarified, gesturing towards the distant hangar.

Odin's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Spaceship!? You have spaceships!?" he exclaimed, eagerly following my gesture.

"Yeah. How do you think they traveled from planet to planet and across the cosmos in this universe?" I responded, turning the question back to him.

Odin nodded in understanding. "Hmm. That makes sense, although I assume they also have ways to teleport around, right?" he speculated.

"That's correct. Most can only transport to planets that are fairly close by and not too distant, unless you possess tremendous power and can travel longer distances. Anyway, let's go," I informed Odin, motioning toward the hangar. He eagerly dashed towards it, his excitement tangible, evoking chuckles from the rest of us.

Aoife grinned at me and commented, "I think Sirzechs and Serafall will react the same way to this, don't you think?"

"Azazel had the same enthusiasm, although he somehow managed to keep himself in check and not just run around like a wild child," I replied with a fond smile.

"Aaron... will you also develop these spaceships for commercial use in our universe in the future?" Göndul inquired, tilting her head curiously.

Considering Göndul's question, I nodded with contemplation. "I've thought about it extensively, and I reckon I will. However, instead of using a spaceship, I'm toying with the idea of using a train that could journey through the planets within our universe. Picture something resembling those insanely fast bullet trains in Japan, but perhaps slowing down once in outer space to allow passengers to fully savor the spectacle."

"Meaning most people? It's a rare chance to go on a train voyage into outer space and toward the moon," remarked Göndul, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. I couldn't help but chuckle in accord with her observation.

"That's the gist of it. I haven't gone too deeply into the specifics yet, just the basic concepts. Moving forward, it'll be essential for me to convene with other leaders to hash out the most pragmatic approach for realizing these aspirations," I elaborated, acknowledging the necessity of collaboration and meticulous planning in such ambitious ventures.

As we strolled towards the hangar, our conversation flowed uninterrupted. Upon arrival, we found Odin eagerly querying the bystanders about our choice of spacecraft. Unfortunately, his efforts were met with puzzled looks, as most didn't recognize him, leaving him without a clear answer. Spotting us, he hastened back.

"They're not being very helpful over there, you know? It's a bit frustrating. So, which one's our ride?" he asked, a hint of impatience in his tone.

I gestured towards a particular spacecraft and responded, "That's my personal spaceship. It'll accommodate all of us, so feel free." Without hesitation, Odin made a beeline for the designated ship, with Rossweisse and Brynhildr trailing behind.

"Let's just hope he doesn't start pressing buttons and inadvertently trigger something..." I quipped with a chuckle, my amusement tinged with a slight concern for Odin's eager curiosity.

We quickly joined them, slipping into the spacecraft with a sense of urgency. Heading straight for the cockpit, I started the startup sequence, causing the ceiling above us to retract and the floor beneath us to rise slowly. As we ascended, the spacecraft smoothly transitioned into a hovering state, and with skillful maneuvering, I guided us into motion, disappearing from sight in the blink of an eye.

Just five minutes into our journey, Odin entered the cockpit with a satisfied grin. "How much longer till we get there, Jin-boy?" he asked, casually leaning against the seat I was in.

"At our current pace, about two hours. What's got you curious all of a sudden? Feeling restless already?" I teased, letting out a light chuckle. With the course set for our destination and the autopilot engaged, I stood up from my seat. "Have you checked out all the compartments yet?"

Locking eyes with him, he shook his head in response to my question. "No, I haven't had the chance to explore every nook and cranny of the stupidly large interior. Have you made sure to give this thing all the essentials?" he asked as we stepped out of the cockpit.

"Yeah, I did. It's like a luxury hotel in space, with some extra perks. Let me show you around," I replied, leading him through the relatively large spaceship. After giving him a comprehensive tour, I left him to wander at his leisure.

Once the tour was over, I made my way to my quarters, only to find Azathoth seated on my bed. Tilting my head in curiosity, I questioned her, "It's unusual to find you here. Is there something on your mind you wish to talk about?"

"It's... nothing of great importance," she mumbled, avoiding eye contact and betraying a sense of unease, leaving me puzzled by her demeanor.

"Well, what's running through your mind?" I prodded, urging her to share while keeping my gaze locked on her.

Meeting my eyes with a solemn expression, she murmured, "Please, kiss me."

[What?] Ddraig interrupted, his confusion evident.

{That's unexpected,} Albion chimed in, equally puzzled.

'Has someone influenced her?' Rudra mused, attempting to decipher her thought process.

"I wouldn't normally object, but could you explain where this idea came from?" I inquired, taken aback by her request. As far as I could remember, I hadn't shared a kiss with Azathoth before... or had I? Unless she had done so while I was asleep, which would've escaped my notice.

Azathoth lapsed into silence, her gaze steady as she held my stare. Eventually, she spoke again. "Göndul and Aoife suggested it. They believe it could... advance our relationship."

"...You seem uncertain about it yourself," I observed, noting her hesitation. "Well, regardless, let's give it a try."

As I settled next to her, I gently guided her head to meet my gaze. Uncharacteristically, she blushed ever so slightly at our close proximity. Tenderly, I leaned in, causing her to shut her eyes in sweet anticipation until our lips finally met.

Azathoth quivered at the tender touch, prompting me to envelop her in my embrace, drawing her nearer. Not a word escaped her lips, yet I sensed her gradually easing into the embrace, her lips pressing more passionately against mine.

Her hands found their place on my chest, seeking to bridge the remaining distance between us, nurturing a sense of intimacy along with our affectionate union. We remained in that embrace for a full minute, allowing Azathoth to guide the rhythm, her movements subtle and delicate, yet conveying a depth of emotion beyond mere words.

We separated, our lips reluctantly parting, leaving Azathoth gazing at me with a faint blush gracing her cheeks. She shifted her gaze away, her eyes darting to the side.

"So, what did you think?" I asked, eager to hear her thoughts on the moment we shared.

With a hand placed delicately over her chest, she continued to blush, avoiding direct eye contact. "It... it felt odd... but not unpleasant. My chest felt warm, and there was a fluttering sensation in my stomach, like butterflies, though none appeared," she confessed, her blush deepening as she spoke.

"So, you enjoyed it, then," I deduced, to which she nodded shyly. "I never imagined you'd be so adorable in situations like this." Her bashful nod only added to her charm, leaving me captivated by her newfound vulnerability.

A deep blush spread across her cheeks, leaving her at a loss for words. Despite my efforts to engage her in conversation, she simply shook her head, her silence conveying everything she couldn't say.

"Alright, I'll leave you to your thoughts then. If you need anything else, I'll be in the kitchen or cockpit," I informed her, getting up to leave.

As I neared the door, I felt her movement behind me. Before I could react, her hand grasped my arm, pulling me back towards her. With a gentle gesture, her lips brushed against my cheek, a fleeting moment of affection before she disappeared from view, though her presence lingered on the spaceship.

A chuckle escaped me as I shook my head in amusement. "Let's give this a Japanese twist. How about 'My Outer God Can't Be This Cute!'?" I suggested to Albion, Ddraig, and Rudra, seeking their opinions on the matter.

[Turn it into a book? Co-write it with Tsubaki!] exclaimed Ddraig, his laughter filling the room like a playful child.

{Azathoth might not take kindly to that. I would advise against it,} replied Albion, his tone laced with caution.

'I concur with Albion. She may be lenient with you, but she has the power to make others forget,' warned Rudra, his words filled with concern.

"Noted," I acknowledged with a nod, fighting back a chuckle at the idea. I made a mental note to proceed cautiously around Azathoth's caprice. "We'll just take it easy until we arrive then..."

Making my way to the kitchen, excitement pulsed within me, knowing the pandemonium that awaited. As expected, the room was bustling with activity, and my senses were greeted by the delightful aroma of Göndul's cooking. With a raised eyebrow, I took a seat, casting an inquisitive glance at the spread before Rossweisse.

As I asked about the delectable dishes before us, Göndul suddenly appeared in front of me, wielding a spoon like a culinary wizard. With surprising force, she directed a mouthful of food into my open mouth. Though initially caught off guard, I obediently chewed and swallowed, savoring the unexpected burst of flavors.

"What was that?" I asked, still trying to discern the lingering taste on my palate.

Odin gave me an odd glance, his expression a mixture of amusement and disbelief. "I'm surprised you just ate something that was shoved in your mouth. Normal people would spit it out since they don't know what it was."

I shrugged, unperturbed. "I trust them, so I have no reason not to eat food that's in front of me. I'll admit that some of the girls aren't the best cooks yet and still need to keep learning to get better, but I'll still eat it regardless," I explained with a nonchalant smile, earning a hearty laugh from Odin.

"You have always been an odd one, Jin-boy," Odin remarked with a chuckle before indulging in the same dish. "But it is a dish in our pantheon that Göndul gave her own twist to. I believe Rossweisse also had a hand in making it. It's called Gravlax, a delicacy consisting of raw salmon cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and dill, often served thinly sliced as an appetizer."

"Gravlax... that's a Scandinavian dish, right?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

Odin nodded in confirmation, still savoring the flavors. "Mr. Foods-it-all knows about it, huh? Couldn't tell from the taste?" he teased, flashing me a grin.

"I haven't eaten it before, so I wasn't entirely sure, but I am aware of it, yes," I admitted as Göndul kindly served me a plate of my own, expressing my gratitude with a smile.

For an entire hour, we engaged in lively banter as we gradually approached the planet. As we got closer, we went back to the cockpit and I activated the ship's cloaking device, making us invisible and undetectable to external sources.

"Well, that's it, huh? I didn't know what to expect, but it's a lot more... ordinary than I anticipated. But it looks like only a small part of the world is inhabited, and the rest seems quite desolate," remarked Odin, his eyes fixed on the planet unfolding before us.

Gathered in the cockpit, we all peered out into the vast expanse of space, observing the planet below. It seemed relatively mundane, as mundane as one could expect in our line of work. In the center lay the five cities of Svlalria, as described to us by Anran Wu, while the surrounding landscape consisted mostly of forests, barren rocky terrain, and expansive bodies of water.

"Currently, it's winter from what I can tell, so the temperatures outside of the cities are below subzero. We're all going to be immune to that, so don't worry, but... we shouldn't fight if possible, or at least keep your attacks from destroying what keeps them warm, understood?" I instructed them, emphasizing the importance of caution, to which they all nodded in agreement.

"Keep a check on our powers, understood. But what happens if they try to threaten the lives of their own people?" inquired Helmwige, her expression reflecting genuine concern.

"Stop them, isn't that obvious?" responded Odin, his tone firm as he directed a stern look at Helmwige, who nervously returned his gaze with an awkward smile.

"Y-yes, o-of course, Odin-sama. I just was wondering... t-that's all," she stammered, her demeanor betraying the weight of her past servitude despite her considerable strength.

"He's right, though. If they attempt to destroy those things that provide warmth, intervene immediately. If possible, repair it, and if you can't, reach out to me, and I'll handle it," I informed them, then paused, an idea forming in my mind. "Actually... I'll search for one when we arrive and analyze it. I'll create a tool for quick repairs and distribute it to all of you so we'll be prepared if such a situation arises."

Odin approached me, his excitement evident as he clapped my back a few times with enthusiastic energy. "Hoho! This is the first time I've seen you at work like this! I look forward to seeing more of it, Jin-boy!" he exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. I awkwardly smiled back at him, feeling a mixture of pride and bashfulness under his encouraging gaze.

He maintained a warm smile towards me, his voice softening. "You've changed a lot but are still the same. I'm proud of you," he murmured, his words conveying a depth of sincerity that touched my heart.

Odin's unexpected compliment caused a warm flush of embarrassment to flood through me, catching me off guard with his rare display of sincerity. It felt like receiving praise from a cool uncle or a stern grandpa, which made it even more meaningful.

"Thanks, Odin," I said, my gratitude evident in my tone as he simply nodded in acknowledgment. Returning my focus to the planet looming before us, I composed myself and continued speaking.

"Let's stick with our groups. I'll show you which teams are going where," I announced, directing their attention to a screen that appeared in front of us, displaying a detailed map of the planet along with the assigned destinations for each team.

— ○ ● ○ —

Team 1 – Aaron and Schwertleite – Finhöll

Team 2 – Azathoth, Aoife and Göndul – Jotundvik

Team 3 – Rossweisse, Odin, Brynhildr – Aetherreach

Team 4 – Grimgerde, Helmwige and Ortlinde – Havskulle

— ○ ● ○ —

"Finhöll, the district of entertainment with a red-light district and battle arena. Jotundvik, the residential district with a large hospital. Aetherreach, the city dedicated to researching the magic and alchemy of the other world. And lastly, Havskulle, responsible for agriculture and climate control to adapt to the ever-changing seasons on the planet," I repeated, ensuring everyone understood their designated destinations.

"Ugh. I wish I could go to the entertainment district, but I'm also interested in magic and alchemy!" grumbled Odin, clearly disappointed.

"If we can resolve this peacefully or come to an agreement, then there's a chance we can go there, Odin-sama. So please don't be so negative about this," Brynhildr interjected, her tone gentle yet firm as she addressed Odin's despondence.

"Do we need disguises? Maybe Aaron's group should go to um... Tidsfrosset By and speak with the queen?" Grimgerde queried, her voice laced with uncertainty.

All eyes turned to me, anticipating my response. I nodded in agreement. "I selected those cities for certain reasons that I won't reveal just yet. Nevertheless, if you encounter anything strange, please inform me. It could be anything, understand? All I'll say is that if 'it' becomes aware of our presence and intentions, it could complicate matters. As for disguises, it's probably a good idea," I explained, stressing the need for caution.

Odin's grin widened, and in an instant, he transformed into a younger version of himself. To my surprise, he looked quite dashing with his revitalized appearance, complete with white or gray hair that added a touch of sophistication to his youthful facade.

"This should do it," he declared proudly, flexing his muscles for emphasis.

"Don't strain yourself, old man," I quipped, unable to contain a smile at his antics.

"What do you mean by 'strange,' Aaron?" Brynhildr asked, her expression filled with genuine curiosity.

Pausing to meet her gaze, I carefully chose my words. "Trust your instincts. I can't give you all the details since I'm not entirely certain, but from what I've gathered, there's something more going on here. Just believe me on that," I implored, hoping she grasped the seriousness of the situation.

Brynhildr nodded in understanding, her gaze showing her trust in me. Turning back to the map, I outlined our plan of action. "Let's get started then. Schwertleite and I will quickly check out Finhöll and then head to the main city to speak to the queen. If she refuses us, then it may come to a fight, but hopefully not," I explained, preparing my team for the task at hand.

After receiving agreements from everyone, I began teleporting them away one by one. "Cúntóir, can you keep an eye on everything from here?" I asked, turning to my faithful companion who swiftly appeared beside me.

"Of course, I'll keep you updated on any changes, Aaron," she replied, her presence offering reassurance as my team departed for Finhöll. With a nod of gratitude, I steeled myself for the challenges ahead.

— ○ ● ○ —

Arriving in the bustling city of Finhöll, I quickly activated our disguises. My appearance transformed into that of "Kei," while Schwertleite took on the guise of a random woman. Stepping out of the alleyway where we had teleported, we paused to take in our surroundings.

"This is quite different from what I had pictured," Schwertleite confessed, her eyes scanning the vibrant cityscape.

"I agree, but take a look at the railway they use to travel between cities," I remarked, gesturing towards the upside-down train and tracks overhead.

"You see that in anime, and I think Japan has something similar. Have you ever been on them before?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

I shook my head. "Not yet, but I would like to. Anyway, let's go," I encouraged, setting off in a predetermined direction with Schwertleite at my side. The adventure was just beginning.

The city had a compact layout, with buildings clustered closely together, leaving little space between them. As we strolled through the lively streets, I couldn't help but notice the absence of snowfall, despite the winter season. Above us, an invisible dome shielded the city, causing snowflakes to vanish upon contact. It was clear that this was the city's ingenious solution to combat the subzero temperatures outside.

"It's an entertainment-based city, right? So the typical buildings and businesses should be here. You said that... um... a red-light district is here too, right?" Schwertleite asked, her curiosity evident.

"Right, that's correct. We'll start by checking out the arena, along with other buildings that look unique or interesting. They may provide us with valuable clues. We'll save the red-light district for last," I replied, leading the way as we continued our exploration of the city. With each step, we drew closer to unraveling the mysteries hidden within its lively streets.

In the middle of the tightly packed buildings, we stumbled upon a small open space where a young woman in her early twenties held a sizable crowd captive with her remarkable juggling act. Balls engulfed in flames, encased in ice, and surrounded by swirling winds danced effortlessly through the air, eliciting gasps of awe from onlookers.

Schwertleite tapped my arm and leaned in close, her voice barely above a whisper. "You mentioned that most of their species went out to war, but... why are there still so many of them left here?"

I paused, considering her question carefully. "They may be elderly individuals, or Volgendurs who were forced to retire early. It's also possible that there are children, teenagers, or pregnant women among them. Without knowing the exact size of their species, it's difficult to estimate, but it could be in the millions or even billions. There are numerous factors at play," I explained, hoping to shed some light on the situation for Schwertleite. She nodded in understanding, acknowledging the complexity of the situation.

"Retiring early... due to injuries?" Schwertleite asked, with a furrowed brow and concern in her voice.

I nodded in agreement, recognizing her keen observation. As she surveyed the crowd, her gaze fixated on the women gathered nearby. Suddenly, realization struck her.

"Since you mentioned that only girls are born here... and judging by their current condition, does that mean there's a man here too...?" she trailed off, uncertainty coloring her voice.

Glancing at the pregnant women around us, I concurred. It seemed that there was indeed a male presence on this planet. Whether he was here by choice or force, I couldn't say for certain, but...

[Could it be Iviken?] Ddraig interjected eagerly. [What if he got sucked into it and might stay for the—]

{Don't even think about it,} Albion warned sternly.

[—Volgendurussy?] Ddraig finished, unable to contain his amusement.

{...I seriously dislike you,} Albion muttered, his exasperation evident. The banter between the two dragons never ceased to entertain, even in the most unexpected of moments.

Ddraig's insight resonated with me, and I couldn't shake the possibility that Iviken might truly be the mysterious man we were seeking on this planet. "It's quite possible. Let's be vigilant for any indications of his presence, but..."

"The red-light district..." Schwertleite murmured, her eyes widening as she connected the dots.

"It's a potential lead," I admitted, acknowledging her observation as we continued to watch the events unfolding before us. "But it's not a certainty. It seems risky to place him here instead of securing him in some form of confinement to prevent escape."

Schwertleite nodded in agreement, her expression firm. "That's true... but we'll explore the city to track him down, right?"

"Absolutely," I confirmed, as I glanced around us again, noticing we weren't even being noticed by the women around us. "Stay alert for different auras, particularly those of a man's, as they are distinct from a woman's and other species and animals."

Schwertleite nodded, her resolve matching mine as we prepared to begin our search for Iviken in the middle of the bustling streets of Finhöll.

— ○ ● ○ —

After aimlessly strolling through the lively streets of Finhöll for a few minutes, we hadn't come across anything particularly suspicious. However, that's not to say that nothing caught our attention; on the contrary, we spotted several establishments that were undeniably strange in nature—adult shops and similar venues scattered across the cityscape.

Taking a seat on a nearby bench, we observed the myriad of women bustling about the area. "No luck yet," Schwertleite muttered, a hint of frustration creeping into her voice.

"Maybe he's not here, so we can probably focus on—" I started to reply, but our conversation was abruptly interrupted by the blaring of horns in the distance, accompanied by a loud cheer from a large gathering of people.

Our eyes met, and without a word, we nodded in unison before rising from our seats and making our way towards the source of the commotion. Whatever was happening, it seemed worthy of investigation.

As we followed the stream of women, we soon found ourselves standing before a rather unassuming building. To put it bluntly, it was a brothel. However, given the absence of men in this society—which we already knew—it was a bit perplexing. Nonetheless, the concept of girl-on-girl action wasn't exactly unheard of, so we entertained the possibility.

But what we witnessed next left us utterly stunned. Positioned on the terrace were two towering Volgendurs, flanking a man dressed in drag, complete with a collar adorned with a shiny stone in the center. He appeared visibly uncomfortable and was gagged, adding to the disturbing scene.

"Ladies! It's that time again! If you wish to be impregnated, please come here and pay the fee to have your way with our toy!" the large woman on the left exclaimed, inciting cheers from the gathered crowd.

The implications of what we were witnessing made me frown, and I exchanged a grim look with Schwertleite. It was clear that we had stumbled upon something deeply unsettling, and our next course of action needed to be carefully considered.

The unfolding scene filled me with discomfort, especially as I noticed several women eagerly vying to participate, some of whom seemed too young for such activities. Glancing at Schwertleite, I saw the fury building within her, her expression darkening with each passing moment.

Realizing the need to remove her from the situation before she acted impulsively, I gently took her hand and led her away from the disturbing scene. Returning to the bench where we had sat earlier, I urged her to take a seat, hoping to calm her rising anger.

Taking a deep breath, I addressed Schwertleite in a hushed tone. "Iviken and another man are here. Usually, only one man gets dragged into this situation, from what I've learned. This is definitely an odd situation. Let's tread lightly and try to get him out without alerting them. I'll create a clone of him to leave behind while we extract him from this predicament," I explained, outlining our plan of action in the face of such disturbing circumstances.

Schwertleite took a few deep breaths, visibly collecting herself before she spoke. "Let's get down to business. I have a bad feeling about this. We must put an end to it," she declared with a heated voice, getting up from the bench and heading back towards the building.

Instinctively, I reached out and grasped her wrist, stopping her in her tracks. "Wait. We need to assess the building's structure and carefully plan our approach. It's not wise to rush in blindly," I advised, meeting her gaze with a sense of urgency.

For a moment, Schwertleite appeared to study me, her expression inscrutable. Then, with a heavy sigh, she reluctantly relented.

Her sudden change in demeanor struck me as odd. While Schwertleite and I had shared numerous conversations before, there were certain topics we had yet to explore, and it seemed that this situation had touched a sensitive nerve. As we stood there, I couldn't help but wonder what lay beneath her composed exterior, and what hidden struggles she might be facing.

Schwertleite's revelation left me speechless, a heavy weight settling in my chest as I absorbed the gravity of her words. "I'm so sorry," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper, unable to find the right words to offer comfort in the face of such tragedy.

As she explained her aversion to topics like sexual assault and the painful loss of her friend, I felt a pang of empathy for her anguish. "A friend of mine was sexually assaulted—she said it was Loki-sama, but no one ever believed her, and even I was skeptical... and then she took her life. I hated myself since then," she confessed, her gaze averted as she recounted the painful memories.

I nodded solemnly, my heart aching for Schwertleite's loss and the guilt she carried. With a heavy heart, I turned my attention to the task at hand, quickly examining the building where the man had been taken. Once I understood its layout, I dispatched several Shadow Soldiers to prepare our exit strategy, their silent efficiency a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere surrounding us.

Then, a realization struck me. "Wait, is that why... you went off by yourself during that time in the Pocket Dimension? To mourn her?" I inquired softly, sensing the weight of her grief.

Schwertleite nodded, her expression tinged with sadness. "Correct. I always go off by myself to commemorate her date of death. I plan on doing so soon, assuming we're still in this universe, that is," she replied, her voice tinged with resignation.

"Are we ready?" Schwertleite inquired, attempting to steer the conversation away from its solemn tone.

"Yes, let's get started," I responded, eager to shift our focus to the task ahead. We swiftly departed from the area, making our way towards the rear of the building. However, our progress was impeded by the sight of four Volgendurs standing guard.

Raising my hand, I snapped my fingers, casting a spell to send them into a deep slumber. With the guards incapacitated, we maneuvered past them and dragged their unconscious bodies to a secluded corner to avoid detection. Then, I swiftly unlocked the door and cloaked us in invisibility before leading the way inside.

Descending several flights of stairs, we reached an underground level filled with numerous rooms. From one of the chambers, we could hear lewd sounds emanating, indicating our target's location. Two more guards stood watch outside the door, presenting yet another obstacle in our path.

With quick and decisive action, Schwertleite dispatched the two guards stationed outside the room, rendering them unconscious and dragging them to a safe location. Meanwhile, I stood poised by the door, ready to confront whatever lay beyond.

As we exchanged a nod of mutual understanding, we pushed the door open and revealed the scene within. The occupants inside were taken aback by our sudden appearance, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Before they could react, I invoked a spell to induce sleep, incapacitating all but the man who looked both relieved and dumbstruck.

In the room, a total of eight Volgendurs awaited their turn, while two were currently engaged in lewd activities with the man.

I summoned some clothing out of thin air and tossed it to the man. "Get dressed. We're getting you out of here," I instructed firmly, urging him to cover himself. Without hesitation, he complied, quickly donning the garments provided.

Once he was dressed, I approached him, my expression grave. "Where did you come from, and how long have you been here?" I inquired, eager to glean any information that might shed light on the situation.

He met my gaze with a mixture of resignation and defiance. "...I come from this planet. I've been here since I was born," he explained, his voice tinged with bitterness. "As for how... what Callorahine and the others tell you about us are lies. Males are indeed born here, but they are shipped off to work in the underground until they're needed to reproduce with the women here."

The man's revelations left us in a state of shock, his words carrying the weight of the harsh truths he was revealing about life on this planet. "There are women banished down there too, forbidden from returning. So, we had to establish our own community. Currently, there are twenty of us, and we've been planning a rebellion for years," he declared, his voice reflecting a resolute determination despite the grim reality he described.

Schwertleite and I exchanged incredulous glances, struggling to fully grasp the extent of the oppression endured by the inhabitants of this planet. Before we could process this shocking revelation, the door to the room burst open once again, revealing three women and a man.

"Julian!" one of the women exclaimed, her surprise evident. However, her astonishment quickly turned to confusion as she noticed our presence. "W-what? The... Resistance is here?" she stammered, clearly taken aback by our unexpected appearance.

— ○ ● ○ —

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