Sitting down, the General’s eyes couldn’t help but wander as the King with his right hand started laying down the pawns and pieces of the chessboard as he listened to his Butler report to him something important. “I see, the Duchess has it controlled then? Leave it be. I don’t want the people to think much of it.” Meanwhile, Bahamut was given a special seat, just for her while the Countess sat to the right of the General.

The King sat there, silently looking at Paul. His eyes scanned the man up and down. Observing him carefully as he cleaned his uniform and sat straight up with his shiny leather Oxford shoes as clean as the snowy day.

“You have an interesting uniform General.”

“U-Uhm thank you your majesty. I was actually on the fence in wearing this here but I guessed I wouldn’t have stood out if I didn’t.”

“Indeed. That black color and the white shirt with your cap and its white lace really brings it out. What is the history of this uniform? Why were you on the… fence…?”

“This uniform is actually a kinda modern rendition of a not so good organization from ninety years ago. From far away, if you knew our history, Your majesty, you’d think I was going on a reenactment or larping like them.”

“Really now? I do see why. That uniform is made to intimidate while looking stylish. To do Evil while cool.”

“And it's kinda the motif of the Knights of Eldwood your majesty. Hence why our armor is so over the top with how Gothic it's styled. Even then, I kinda prefer our green one Your majesty, it's far more acceptable for us, Outworlders than this.”

“Heavens, it happened ninety years ago. Does your Knight Order support the same ideas as them?”

“Of course not your majesty. What they did was heinous, but when modern guilds were popping out more and more, our green uniform was no longer cutting it and we were no longer standing out like before. One of our original members, DreiTresFrei or James. He makes Evening and Party Gowns on Earth and in his free time, he’d design military uniforms for himself.”

“What a diverse Knight Order.”

“Thank you, your majesty. We have members from all over the world actually, though many came from Asia like me.”

“And your Knight Order, the… Knights of Eldwood, what was its main goal in your world?”

“Our main goal really was to establish a strong and powerful Death Knight Order capable of taking one of the Castles in the middle of the Dark Continent for ourselves. So far, we’ve been unable to do so, your majesty.”

“Really? You seem like a strong human. Akin to that of the Heroes, if there were twelve of you, then the enemies you have must be… Demigods.”

“Sorta, yes. Though we don’t really do much other than patrol the Southern part of the Dark Continent and participate in World Events as a group so that it would be easier on everyone. We do usually get invaded, yes. With the Kingdom of Breznick being one of your biggest enemies and lifelong rivals.”

“Kingdom of Breznick? Hmmm… I think I heard that name as the Diplomat I sent to the Kingdom of James said something about that.”

“Oh yes, that was probably the Sword Saint and her grand speech about attacking us first.”

“Ah I see, and the United Nations? What is its purpose?”

The General rubs his hands together, his body leaning forward a bit.

“It’s just supposed to be a collection of modern and fantasy medieval guilds that joined together into one organization. A worldwide Alliance of sorts so that we may all align our goals and missions and work our way into a way home. It's based on a real organization on Earth… our uhm… planet's name. Though the one we came from is named Tur or Dragon Language of Rock. Your majesty.”

“So you came from two planets? Are you a species of interdimensional creatures of sorts?”

“No, but I guess yes now, your majesty. Originally not, but due to unexplainable circumstances that we aren’t on the edge of knowing the full story. We’re here now and finding a way home.”

“Mhm, mhm. And so, why are you on the fence about that uniform? There seems to be no ill-will amongst your groups in this… UN and everyone in your words is seemingly gunning for the lofty goal of returning home.”

The King then starts placing the units on the chessboard. His hand, full of expensive rings, was slow, taking his time listening to the human General before it.

“Well, as I said your majesty. It’s all about history.”

“History that is ninety years old… is that bad?”

“Yes, your majesty. Hence why everyone was on the iffy side in wearing them. We did see that it was perfect for the entire theme of our Knight Order which was the brutal gothic era of humanity and its designs and architecture. Hence why I am wearing this uniform now, though I’m not wearing the Jack Boots. I find them to be very uncomfortable.”

Finishing setting up the chessboard, the King pulls up his right hand's sleeves and a quick breath as he leans in to make a first move “White… or Black?”

“Uhm… Black your majesty.”

He then makes his first move. Opening with a singular pawn moving forward. The General responds by moving a pawn himself.

“Do you know why I hold this?”

“The Chessboard, Your Majesty?”

“Yes. This game of chess… it's similar to what we have but it's far better and far thought out. I like it. Do you know why?”

“Why, Your Majesty?”

Paul removes his cap, playing with his officer’s greatcoat to transfer the stress of the situation to the leather cloth.

“Because it depicts warfare accurately in such a simple way.” The King then moves a pawn forward once again. His hand opened, signaling the General to move his black units. He then moves the Knight first. “You either stand and not move, face destruction or…” the King then replies with moving his Knight out also. “You move forward and face your enemy.”

“Of course your majesty.”

“But have you heard of what they used to call me?”

“Uhm, no sir. Not exactly.”

“They used to call me Monkey.”

“Why is that your majesty?”

“Why indeed… oh why.”

To Paul’s surprise, the King moved his Queen out. Brazenly using it without care.

“Have… you heard of the Ancient Queen, Elizabeth Marie Bartley? The first Queen of this ancient Kingdom of eternal people? I’m one of the lucky few still alive who had the privilege to see her in her full power.”

“Only rumors really, your majesty.”

“You should know, as she was the one who first called me that… She’d always go on these drivels about how I’d dance to the tune of the air, like a Monkey trying to entertain its captors for food even though King Charles saw my potential, and kept me by his side even in the worst battles that came to this land.”

The King then started cleaning up his Pawns. All attempts to stop the fast moving unit were futile as every attempt, the King also had put units to cover the back of the Queen. In turn, the human general just let him take as many units as he pleased but saved his Rooks and Knights.

“I guess you and the Queen didn’t see eye to eye.”

The King stopped demolishing Paul’s units with the Queen and the Butler arrived with a shiny Oil Lamp, Paul instantly recognizes that it's not from the Kingdom, as it was so similar to an Arabic Oil Lamp that he’d see in the Middle East when visiting. The King then places a gem in the middle of the table and touches it. Creating a magical box around them as he lights the lamp.

“This was given to the Queen, long long long ago. When she was still on her conquest for world domination.”

Inside the courtyard of a building made out of clay, hundreds of Vampire Nobles fed on the beautiful tanned women of the town. In the middle of the courtyard was a big throne and Harold came dashing it. Opening the two wooden doors just to be met with a scene straight out of an open air brothel.

“MY QUEEN!”

Running to his Queen, Elizabeth lay on her throne. Looking depressed and deprived as she sat with no tact or elegance, with her left leg above the Throne’s arm, exposing her long beautiful leg covered with a black stocking as she drank blood from a golden cup. Not giving a care at the world as her hair littered the ground and her Crown, janked and almost about to fall off.

“Hm? Yes Baron. Join’neth thee festivities, for’reath we hav’th captured enough women to last the Knights forth years.”

“MY QUEEN, THE KARAK DYNASTY HAS MADE ITS MOVE WITH TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND MEN! THEY’VE CROSSED THE GREAT DUNES AND IS NOW MOVING TO THE EARL OF LATTIQUE! THE FORTRESS CITY IS IN DANGER!”

“What has that Earl done now?”

“F-from reports, the Earl attacked a Karakian Caravan and took a Merchant's daughter.”

“Monkey… do you know what this means?”

“W-war your majesty…?”

Hearing the news, Queen Elizabeth drops her golden cup. Letting the blood spill as the newly turned Vampire women drank from its remains.

“MEN! MOVETH AT ONCE! ENJOY’EATH THOU’S FOOD LATER! WE GO TO WAR!”

The Nobles immediately disappeared, leaving the women in the courtyard to themselves. A few miles away in a Fortress City, a lone Vampire grunt fend off soldiers of the Karak Dynasty, wearing only chain mail armor with steel bowl helmets and angled swords, the Karakians weren’t afraid of the monsters of the night. Bravely storming the Fortress City with only a few hundred men in the hot seething afternoon desert Sun.

They were soon routed as the Vampire Knights awakened inside the city, their strong Knightly armor and speed made the Karakians retreat to the open flat terrain to form a defensive line. There, the Vampires hurled arrows at insane speed and pierce. Puncturing their shields like it was nothing. Soon, the ground rumbled and behind the Karakians was a man on a black horse, wearing a deformed black armor. Though covered in plates of steel, the man's head was exposed.

“KING SUL AL-DIN HAS ARRIVED! MY COMRADES! STEEL YOUR SOUL AND STAY ALIVE!”

The ground continued to rumble as the horizon was filled with thousands and thousands of well armed troops. With the ones on horseback at the front while in the middle were large Siege towers being pulled by Ogres and Giants while Dragon Riders filled the skies. The Vampires, even knowing their immortality was useless against such overwhelming numbers, they stood their ground still. The Grunts formed their own defensive line, five hundred meters from the large steel gate of the Fortress City with the Knights behind them on horseback.

As the massive enemy army rolled over the dunes, ten thousand Knights rolled straight over an opposing side and to a flat sandy terrain where the two armies met face to face. Queen Elizabeth rode in her white horse, drenched in armor while she brazenly walked into combat with only her frilly purple gown with high heels and her expensive crown.

Seeing each other, the two gestured for their armies to stop with only their leaders continuing forward till they were within arm's reach. King Sul Al-Din lowers his shemagh. Showing a young tanned man who has a recently shaved beard.

“A woman? To think you were the cause of the upheaval of the Kingdoms up North.”

“We meet again King Al-Din. I suppose you’ve seen me before, with my Husband.”

“Yes, King Charles the Great. I see that you’ve continued his aspirations of conquering this unconquerable land.”

“No land is unconquerable, King Al-Din. You should feel entitled that I only bought ten thousand Knights with me, if I was to bring their Grunts and Squires, then this would no longer be an equal fight between us.”

The King stares at the immensely beautiful blonde woman, with spotless white skin and a sharp chin and a pretty face that could snare any creature. He stood tall and proud, noting her piercing emerald eyes and demeanor. The empty blank stare and the sad and depressed aura that she was giving off. Rather than a proud wonderful Queen of a powerful eternal Kingdom, all he could see was a woman who was already dead. Long dead.

“Move Queen Bartley, this is a matter between me and the Earl.”

“I suggest you retire yourself and your army to Karak, I’ll deal with the Earl. You have my word.”

After a few seconds, his own band of Knights arrive to intimidate the Vampires. But he holds his hand up, stopping them from getting closer. He could see that Queen Elizabeth was no longer who she was, what was in front of him was a completely different person, far sadder and in worse condition. Using her beauty to keep a mask of power and authority. A grace far removed from the woman he encountered decades before, standing with King Charles the Great.

“I swear, we will both meet our demise here. Even with ten thousand Knights, I can take on your entire army group and make sure only a few thousand shalt be leaveth alive to continue thou’s campaign.”

“I’ll retreat.” He whistles and waves his arm as his army retreats back to the Dunes.

King Al-Din looks back at the Queen who looked as if she could die at any moment. With such a depressing state emanating from her eyes.

“I’ll… send you my Therapists.”

“Basha Alakium Dehir.” The Queen bowed her head elegantly at the King while greeting him in his own language.

“Dehir Kium Basha!” The armored and hardened King replies, respectfully returning the bow back as he rides back with his army, calling off the attack completely. The Queen then moves forward, clearing the way to Fortress City. The Vampires holding the fort celebrate as their mighty Queen arrives to the rescue.

“Wow, I mean… just wow. I’m a commanding officer myself. In World War Three, nothing like that happened. It was really a mechanized war, an industrialized war.”

“As you can see, General. The Queen is not to be played with. From her calling me a Monkey to how she leads her troops. Her mere presence alone, no matter how sad or depressed she looked commanded respect, admiration, and most of all, courage.”

“Yea… I uhhh… have no words for that. I only lead inside a tank or a helicopter really, sometimes on the ground with the troops, but nothing of that sort.”

“Then, tell me. Why were there rumors that the Outworlders found her Tomb in the Karakian Desert? That you took her Sarcophagus that was especially built by King Al-Din's mages to keep her resting for all of eternity and accidentally awakened her.”

“I have no information about that sadly your majesty. As much as I am a Four Star General, even I have a limited view of the entire involvement of the United Nations in this incident.”

“And these photos?”

With the transparent enchanted box around him, no one could hear a single word they spoke. Not even Bahamut who was outside the box, enjoying some cupcakes could hear the conversation happening inside. The Butler with them then laid photos of the Vampire Queen's sarcophagus, empty and devoid of its contents. The woman didn’t even care about her Master and the Countess, seemingly pale faces. Wholefully trying to avoid showing a hint of emotion.

“General Paul, May I warn you that this action means war. To unravel the Kingdom's deepest secret and to awaken what we've constantly been trying to keep asleep for thousands of years.”

Paul then takes a look at the photos. Shocked at they even got these as nothing was told to him about a breach. “No wonder she wasn’t in a creepy black coffin with red leather inside and located in some creepy abandoned cemetery labyrinth. This world's version of Middle Easterners was the one that buried her. They respected her that much huh?” He then could see that the photos were taken inside a modern ship, with the bulkheads shown in some of the photos and military vehicles in tan and woodland camo behind it.

The only human in the room knew these photos are legit, and they are ones that were leaked from a recent incident inside Woodstock’s Port that nearly crippled half of their entire Naval power. But the man knew it was time to be calm, and he collected himself. Not showing a hint of fear. Alana who was quietly drinking coffee with her legs together, angled to the right just puts her hand lightly on his back. He felt her warm palm through the jacket and lightly nodded.

Though losing half of his Pawns, a Rook and Knight. Paul managed to trap the Queen. He makes a little grin while Alana tugs his arm to not show too much emotion. He looked back and could see Bahamut eating a Cupcake and making a thumbs up with the same grin as his.

“Good game.”

“Yea, though I lost a lot. Guess I can still clutch this.”

“You're very good at this, though I expected as much from a human who has such a rank. Four Star General.”

“Thank you, your majesty… and those photos, for all I know it might be faked. It’s not possible with our technology to photoshop something like that.”

“Photo… shop… you say?”

“And that interior, it can be the Sarcophagus of anything. We, the UN, have been sending expeditions everywhere to look for better ways home or anything that could point us to why we were teleported here.”

“I see.”

“And if you look closely, that’s just one photo. How can it be real right?”

On the Chessboard, the General has completely trapped the Queen with nowhere to go. In one fast move, he takes the surrounded Queen and removes it from the game completely. Leaving his units to run rampant.

“Funny how even this simple game managed to show how her reign ended. Then, I shall ignore this factor for now. I do understand that bigger things are afoot, with the Church of the Holy See seemingly agreeing with the Twelve Gods Religion that the Hordes of Hell will be arriving soon.”

“Thank you, but if anything does happen. Be sure to tell us, we’ll come and help you in any way we can.”

“I hope your words are true human.”

With the Queen gone, the General starts moving what remained of his troops, mounting a surprising defense with his Rooks and Knights while his Pawns become his biggest factor, its positions to completely expose the King’s unit if he dare take one.

“How long did she rule the world, your majesty? Ten years?”

“A year after we realized there wasn’t anything to truly conquer in Meridia, just an endless desert. It was ruled that we have dominion over the entire planet. But it only lasted a year, as within the next four years, the land she conquered rose up and fought back. Little by little, her hard work was undone by the people.”

“How come, your majesty? Since if you got that far, you must’ve had a massive army right?”

“No, the entire time she used lightning fast cavalry tactics and Thralls to do most of the heavy lifting. We can never muster the troops of that like James or the High Elves. A million strong army is never an option for us, but we do have mastery over magic and we used it to our advantage. She then left a few Vampire Nobles to control each major town and cities. But back then, our reputation was far more fearsome than it is now and proved to be effective… till the Dragonkin first showed our weakness.”

“Even with your strength and power, the fault of being overstretched is not enough to supplement it and get overwhelmed?”

“Exactly, though it took them Five years, and in that five years did the Hero Saint Mike of Akash take the Holy See’s Saviors mighty Divine Sword and trained with it, got experience and was brutally good at swinging it. I even watched him trap General Mar Marioleone and put the poor loyal dog to sleep.”

“Trapped? Your Majesty?”

“Hm, though it is said he killed him, that wasn’t the fact. General Marioleone was Queen Elizabeth’s top Thrall, his skills and knowledge paired with his wisdom made him a formidable tactician and warrior and the fact that he was ninety percent purebred made him nearly invincible to even the most Holiest of weapons, one that the Hero Saint couldn’t fully kill like the Queen and had to subdue.”

“So, some of the people that served under her are still active?”

“Am I not one? I was a Baron when she was on her conquest. If Vampires cannot reproduce naturally, then we shall take stock of the entire population of humanity and elves… as she said to us before committing this great campaign. Vitas didn’t even put up a fight as after the Second Reset, they were flattened by Ancient Magic. She just waited for all the Cards to fall with her Spies and Espionage.”

“Wow, you speak highly of her for someone she looked down on.”

“Well, in the end, we Vampires are also cowards and when the Hero of Humanity stormed this very castle you and I are sitting in, many of the Nobles turned against her. It was only her Husband and a select few that sided with her till the end. Her personal Knight army most of all, those magnificent valiant goons never lost once and not even here, surrounded did they get defeated. Only deactivated after the disappearance of their General, King, and Queen.”

“How come her Husband died fully though? Aren’t they the same type of super rare and super powerful Vampires?”

“Oh that fool was a human Knight till the end, he never drank human blood as much as his Wife did, and also requested the blood from humans who had consented to do so. He might be an Ancient Primordial Vampire, but had fastened from drinking as he got busy managing the collapsing Vampiric Empire to the point that he couldn’t even regenerate a finger. Though the poor man stood tall and defended his beloved till his last breath, even after all of her crimes and infidelity.”

“I’m at a loss for words really, that’s something any normal human would wish to accomplish in his lifetime. To defeat such overwhelming odds against such powerful foes with nothing but faith and willpower alone. If only the same could be said in our wars, your majesty.”

“We’ve actually preserved the original Throne room. Though it's locked, maybe in another time I’ll open it and show it to you. Outworlders like you must know of this history, so that it may not happen to you too. I know you humans have this certain sickness… to repeat your history regardless of how much you’ve moved forward in life.”

“We actually don’t have Vampires in our world. It's actually just humans and animals.”

“Even then, I know you humans thirst for knowledge that has no use for you. So, be sure to remember it. That Throne room was so expensive to build it took the High Elves and Dwarves that built it thirty years. Twenty in gathering the materials and planning the entire layout alone.”

The King then picked up the papers Alana presented to him. Slowly skimming through it all, the man was taking his sweet time at it. Looking at every word and scrutinizing it as much as he can. Alana who sat next to Paul sat quietly. Sipping tea without care as the King rolled over her papers. He then goes to his pocket and brings out his stamp and gently places it at the table.

“Interesting paper, it seems that your Father has taught you well Lady Minuit.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”

“And this request for extending your family vineyards a kilometer into the river. I get it that you want my approval to bypass all of the problems that might come with the other families but you must still meet with the delegates to see if problems may occr.”

“Of course, Your Majesty.”

“Tell me, how has your time been with the Goddess? Can she tell us when the weather will be good or bad?”

“I sadly do not know.”

“I see, but it would be handy to know if the farms will have plenty of water to go by next Summer. As it's been getting hotter as the years pass and this expected increase in the production of Wine, are you sure about it? I will not aid your family if it comes to ruin.”

“I am sure. With the coming of the Dragon Courier services, I’ll be able to capitalize more on the speed and agility of our Dragons and transport Wine at speeds we haven’t seen before.”

“Ah, such a good businesswoman. Already, you are prepping your production beforehand. Then, I can be assured that the Tower will be fully finished by next week?”

“Of course Your Majesty, I’ve already hired Vampire workers to help in the building. It has only gone faster from now on. With this, the Minuit’s should be able to transport an extra two hundred percent of Wine to the main continents, the High Elves most of all have been upping their shipment request lately.”

“Haven’t you heard? The city of Elvennur will be having some form of celebration. The Empire will probably be having some sort of Royal party alongside it next year. I think it was due to something about their victory over the giant sea serpent that was killed by a High Elf.”

“Ah I see, then I’m sure coastal cities will also be having some requests. The High Elves are extremely rich, I do not hold back with their orders Your Majesty, rest assured. Much more wealth will come to us, but I must expand my Vineyards to keep up with the orders.”

“Hm. I do agree, I just want to make sure you are fully aware of this as I’ll have to send out a letter to the House of Charlemagnes and have them send a representative of the Salian Family over and negotiate the terms of the prices. I do see on the last page that you plan on paying in multiple currencies. Why is that?”

“I’ve recently heard some wars are occurring with the Outworlders ramping up their efforts to surround the Kingdom of Vitas. I was hoping to pay in multiple currencies to avoid any problems in the future.”

“And if these currencies fail, you’ll earn money… hmph. Such a dastard woman you are. You are getting information from this human General aren’t you?”

Caught red handed, Alana continues to play it cool and sips her tea. “I only have access to what General Jackson has given to me.”

“To think even you are planning to make money off war. You’ve grown Alana, you’ve truly grown. Which economy is going to get hurt by the upcoming war?”

“General Jackson has recently told me, Your Majesty, that the Kingdom of Gareth will be the one afflicted the most due to the upheavals of Outworlders there causing some internal conflicts within the Nobles. One recently fought by Bahamut on a border city.”

“Gareth? Hmmmm… their economy is as strong as an Ox. I highly doubt even the Outworlders will be able to shake it, they have investments in all sectors and their placing in the continent of Geraldia gives them access to everything they need but in scattered parts.”

“I have personally seen what they are capable of. The Outworlders, Your Majesty. I am sure not even the Kingdom of Gareth will be able to survive their storm.”

“What is your relationship with this human?”

“He is my benefactor and colleague.”

“Really? Not your partner in crime? He’s a General. He has full access to what military operations the UN will be performing and knows what exact region of the Kingdom of Gareth will be affected. Is that right General Jackson?”

“Y-Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Your partner in crime. Tell me human, what region will be affected?”

“I do not know its exact name, but it's North of Gareth near where the Great Plains lay.”

The King wrote it down, his stylish writing putting it into paper as he wrote a large amount of money to be invested into multiple merchants and manufacturers of steel and arms.

“Good. Very good, that’s where Gareth’s farms all lay as the ground there is fertile and perfect for cultivation. What Outworlder army will be there?”

“A Guild of sorts, Your Majesty. It is led by one man, but he can conjure an army of a million Demons if needed since he has full access to his Guild Base and its Mana Core.”

“Wonderful. Lady Minuit, your contact with an Army that spreads throughout the world is truly amazing. He exactly pinpoints you to where conflicts may occur in the near future and have you invest in certain companies beforehand to make money out of them.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty. But for me to fully capitalize on this I must expand the production of my Wine.”

“Gareth’s wines are also good, but are also made in its Northern parts. Heh, you’ll be replacing the void it’ll be leaving with the upcoming war of lower quality Domaine wine aren’t you?”

The King seemingly managed to unwrap Alana’s entire grand scheme and she nods and smiles. “Exactly as you told, Your Majesty.”

“Heavens! Such a smart girl! This is the first I’ve heard of such things! Do well with this human. General Jackson, are you aware that you’ll be making this woman far richer than she already is?”

“I know. But it's the least I can do, Your Majesty. After all, she’s giving me shelter and a place to eat and rest. She’s also adventured with me and I fully trust her judgment and morals.”

“Getting rich out of wars far beyond you huh… I love this. Our country can be exporters if we can only gain more information about future foreign wars.”

“Uhm… I am willing to also aid you in that part, Your Majesty. High Command has given me full authority to use whatever we have on our side as a bargain to you. If you wish, are willing to send you information about upcoming wars. We have been tracking players and the Guilds and I think next year, if we still haven’t returned. Libertus, one of the biggest Guilds, might try to break out of the Kingdom of James’ grip on them and start a huge war.”

The King then writes the information down, putting again the names of multiple companies and places to invest on the paper.

“Hm, I shall have the Charlemagnes to invest more in their weapons production and we might be able to sell lower grade Vampire weapons to the humans in the near future. Beautiful. Tell me, General, is this a common thing back in your world?”

“On Earth? Uhm, yeah. It’s a pretty common thing. Happens a lot, and since everyone can invest. If you watch the news a lot and can track down which place is the usual hotspots like Africa, the Middle East and the Balkans. You can totally invest beforehand and make money alongside the weapons manufacturers.”

“Really?! How connected is your world to be able to do such things. I must learn more from this method, I could easily turn this Kingdom into a mere Regional Power to a Super one like the Empire of the High Elves and the Kingdom of James.”

“But you’ll need the internet and most of all, television. I do not think you can really do that here with how slow things are also.”

“Nonsense, with our Dragon Couriers. It's more than possible now. The introduction of Dragons into the Kingdom’s economy will be a great benefit that will last us till the last Vampire walks on this planet.”

“Then, we are the only ones with something akin to a Global connection. We can supply you with info about wars before it’d even occur. Doesn’t help that we have troops reporting to us in every corner and part of the world.”

“How dastard of you humans! I love it! Only humans can think of something this malicious and Evil and yet morally dubious at the same time! Not even we Vampires with our pride and ego would allow us to perform something this harrowingly Evil, I adore it!”

“Th-thank you?”

The King then rings a bell and he disables the Orb. His Butler comes around with Muffins and Cupcakes. Alana once again reminds Paul on table manners and not to use his hands which he was already about to do instinctively. Using the fork and small flimsy knife, he takes a small piece as the muffin he tried to eat completely breaks apart. Making the man sigh.

Alana and King Harold on the other hand cut their Muffins into small parts first and then took small bites of the sweet while Bahamut just ate at her own way.

“So, Lady Minuit. Do tell, how has your relationship with a human been so far?”

Seeing the loaded question but also knowing it's the one that they’ve been looking for. The General swallows his food without even thinking. He felt a bit of sweat come out of his head as Alana just elegantly ate. The long winded conversation has finally arrived at the area in which they must make the most impression and bridge the needed gap between the two species, starting with the King of the Vampires.

The two stayed silent, visibly thinking on how they’ll be wording this but the King, seeing the two just sighed.

“I know you must be a strong human. But how strong though… Did you suffer when battling the Countess?”

“Yes your majesty. I actually almost died.”

“Hmmmm… yes. You must be one tough human to be able to say such things.”

“Thank you, your majesty. The journey here has been… one interesting moment in my life to say the least.”

“Yes, I can only imagine. From a peasant in another world to being a guest to our planet and dimension full of wonders and dangers to defeating and making a contract with one of the few naturally birthed Vampires that are purebred. Just what are you, General Jackson?”

“Just a man doing what he is ordered to do, your majesty.”

“Is that so, and Lady Minuit. Do tell, how has your relationship with this fragile human been?”

“It has been nothing but a ride I must say. From the start to the present, I’m happy and content. He provides and I return. Not once has he failed me, your majesty.”

“Like a married couple. Good. That’s what I want to hear. Unity between the many species of Threa has always been ripe with war and distrust. It’s the natural born evolution that many other species failed to do and got forgotten and killed off. Forrus, as kind as she is, is also the killer the Gods of War and Death could only hope to reach. Such is why our first Queen walked the path she did. To change the Vampires and have them breed in a more easier way than to hunt and turn. General. How have you been in bed with a vampire?”

“E-Excuse me, your majesty?”

“We Vampires are lustful creatures, meant to snare and be loved by our prey. I find it hard to see that you haven’t yet had coitus with Lady Minuit or at least felt the seductive aphrodisiac of our smell and fangs.”

“... I actually had, your majesty.”

“Did you gain this experience from a prostitute? Vampires are highly sought after in the main continents after all and I personally know a Noblewoman who left this Kingdom to satiate her lust with the mortals.”

“N-No. I’ve actually yet to meet prostitutes. Though I’m sure I’ve passed one or two in the places me and Alana ate, but I never gave it thought. The one I slept with is a normal vampire to say the least.”

“Mhm. How long did you last? Most humans wouldn’t be able to keep up, many would end up having heart attacks due to the overload our smell and fangs would give to your fragile bodies. Hence why most human deaths in this Kingdom are actually in bed with a Vampire. Those of my kin, unable to control our lust, would usually end up overdoing it, killing the human.”

“She has been very kind and understanding of my… mortality. Though at first, I kinda did feel that. She soon learned how to control herself and limit it.”

“Lady Minuit, have you learned of the Art of Seduction yet? I heard that was where your grades fell off in University.”

“I’ve been taught your majesty. It’s just that I’ve yet to do anything.”

“Heavens, you are a Purebred. You should take advantage of that and use this man as much as you can. Though would General Jackson last long I do wonder?”

“I did last, your majesty. If it's her, I’m sure she’d be more gentle. Alana is unlike the first Vampire I’ve slept with. She’s more… reserved and to herself.”

Alana blushes at hearing the man say such things with a straight face. Her hand trembled a bit at the idea.

“Pfft… Bahahahahaha! This is truly a good show! No theater play could match this!”

The General breathed a sigh of relief. Though embarrassed, he knew he did what he had to do and calmed down at hearing the King laugh out loud after hearing him.

As the two were about to speak with each other once again, a massive airship flew over them. Two large blimps attached to a platform resembling a Galleon. The platform itself had glass windows and even a bubble underneath it for people to see the ground under leisure, it has bronze lining and decor scattered throughout its armored belt. Bahamut sips her tea as the balcony shakes from the powerful thrusters of the flying machine.

“Heavens, the High Elves have arrived. Fashionably early as expected of them.”

“W-woah what the fuck- OUCH!” Alana punches his gut as she pretends to cough to cover his vulgarity. “M’Lord, that is a Royal Airship of the High Elves. Do not say or do anything remotely offensive to them. They already see humans far worse than Ogres and Orcs, you do not want to cross them.” shivers are sent to Paul’s spine as the massive flying ship stops and drops a gravity anchor. The enchanted chain sends Mana to the anchor itself, activating its magic and glues itself to the soil. Effectively stopping the airship, suspending it midair.

“Alana, I mean Lady Minuit.”

“It's Lady Alana since we’re close.”

“Oh okay, Lady Alana. What am I supposed to say if they speak to me?”

“Just nod or have an empty expression.”

The King then stands up, clapping his hand.

“Tomorrow General, let us continue this conversation. The dignitaries of Elvennur has arrived. Countess, I’ve read your request and I shall approve it. The Minuit family has long been helping this Kingdom, not only with its wonderful Wine but also with its wisdom of business. Do bring more, for the rest of our kin. I look forward to what you’ll think of next.”

King Harold then puts his green ring to the Orb in the middle of the table, deactivating the barrier. He then walks to Bahamut and kneels before her as he kisses her palm.

“Goddess Bahamut, I thank you for blessing this Castle with your presence. It has been ten millennia since a Dragon God walked the plains of this Kingdom. Please, do enjoy your stay and continue to enjoy our luxuries. If needed, I am willing to pay as much tribute as you need for you to continue your service under us. I’ll personally have my best architects to have a Church designed just for the worship of you.”

“Hmmm… talk to the Knights of Bahamut in Geraldia! They have an office inside one of the super big Fortress cities by the Kingdom of Gareth and have a Church built from there specifications as I’ve already taught them what I want and wish to see! Now, where can I fin-”

Paul runs behind Bahamut and quickly covers her mouth.

“U-uhm thank you majesty. I’ll be sure to transmit her request if she ever needs anything.”

“Bahahahaha! Humans and Dragons, your species' strange relationship never ceases to amaze me. It's always the two of you that come to save the day. Please do General, it is only natural for us to treat such esteemed Guests with whatever they wish. If needed, I have a spare castle to give.”

Hearing this, Bahamut removes Paul’s hand with no effort. Smiling and her eyes sparkling at the idea of having her own massive Castle.

“REALLY?”

“NOOO, NOPE. You, with me now.”

“Awwww…”

Disgruntled, Bahamut stands up and stretches herself.

“Though King Harold, your castle has some very good cupcakes.”

“Thank you Goddess Bahamut, should I deliver some to Lady Minuit’s Manor?”

“Yes! Give me more tribute!”

Paul just facepalms as he drags the high and mighty Bahamut out of the balcony and with Alana as the King waves goodbye to them while smiling. Visibly enjoying his time with the colorful personalities. In the hallway, Alana breathed a massive sigh of relief as the meeting went well. Popping out of Paul’s jacket was the Queen in her Vampire Bat form as he took his Long Coat from the hangar next to the door.

“Hmph, what a Monkey still. And of all the stories he had to recall, is that part? By the Gods that man has no tact when hiding his obvious jealousy over my power.”

“What? He seemed chill though.”

“Chill? As if My Lord, that man threatened you with war didn’t you hear? Or were you engrossed by his story and petty advice that I gave him?”

“Eh? Oh shit he did. I was so busy playing Chess that I forgot he did. Oh crap, I’ll have to go to the airport and directly report this to the higher ups later too. That at least one managed to penetrate too. If it weren’t from Alana, I would’ve collapsed there.”

“But that Monkey did say something true, my folly was that I bit too big. I couldn’t take the entire palette and it ultimately culminated with everything crumbling upon my shoulders. Learn well from my mistakes My Lord.”

“Yeah, don’t worry. I’ve learned so much thanks to you all.”

Alana then stops at a door. The plate is in Romanz so she had to point her finger at it, translating the words. “Approval and Delegation Department M’Lord. Stay on the benches there with the Queen and Bahamut. The King has approved the papers, I must just talk to the delegates about it. The Salian family should have a Manor nearby, so a representative should arrive from them within an hour or two.”

“Soooo then… that takes hours? Since its delegates we’re talking about… can I…”

“Hmmm… yes that could be true. Knowing some of the other Domains owned by the other families wouldn’t want me to expand my Vineyards… hmmm..”

The Queen then flies to her shoulder. “Do not worry Countess, I shall aid you in this. I for one take pride in my skills of talking to delegates.”

“Thank you, your majesty.”

“I’ll be speaking to you telepathically so be ready, if anyone asks. I’m merely your pet bat or a familiar of sorts.”

“Uhm…. we don’t really do that anymore.”

“Regardless, just go along with it. Now, let us depart!”

Alana and Elizabeth then open the door, waving as they go in. Leaving Paul with the already wandering Bahamut, his eyes just go blank knowing he’ll have to deal with Bahamut whose expressive self has become more evident ever since she got used to her human form. Suddenly the door opens and Alana hands him a pouch containing a bunch of Relouse currency coins.

“I already know M’Lord. Just don’t wander too far.”

“Hah, you really know me. Bahamut! Let us go out to the city itself and buy snacks!”

“A date with Master in my human form?! Let’s go!”

“Oy, we still have to save. This isn’t our money.”

“Don’t worry M’Lord, that should be more than enough to cover even the best restaurants that me and Alana ate in when we were building that tower. Those are Gold and Silver coins too.”

“Oh nice! Cha ching babyyy!”

She then closes the door and Bahamut walks alongside the General, looking at the shiny coins. Paul immediately closes the pouch and gives her the stare.

“What?”

“Don’t you even dare.”

“It was just, shiny, Master.”

“Uh huh, if I see any bite marks in any of these, you're in trouble.”

“Boooo…”

As the two walk through the large hallway of the Castle, Bahamut tries to sneak her hand into his pocket to steal a shiny Relouse Coin but Paul, knowing her, does a 180 degree turn and starts walking backward. His tongue and middle finger out, mocking Bahamut.

“BLEHHH BWAHAHAHA!”

“EH?! I was in total stealth! I didn’t even disturb the molecules in the air!”

“WOMAN, I’VE BEEN WITH YOU FOR FIVE YEARS, IT’LL BE SIX YEARS NEXT YEAR, DON’T YOU THINK I’VE ALREADY GOTTEN USED TO YOUR MODUS OPERANDI?”

Pouting, Bahamut tries to use her magic to teleport behind him but Paul just looks forward and starts shuffling like he's on a dance floor.

“Try again BITCH.”

“Oh you're testing me now Master!”

“COME AT ME WOMAN!”

Knowing she can’t fool him anymore, Bahamut just tries to use her speed to steal the coin pouch but Paul keeps dodging her attempts. After a few more tries, all of it failing, she surrenders. Paul then spins around to mock her again but sees that far behind them was the High Elf Diplomats with Vampire Nobles just whispering amongst themselves.

“What is it, Master?’

“Run no walk, no fast walk.”

“Eh? But Alana told me not to since wearing High Heels while inside the Castle will make-”

“WHY ARE YOU QUESTIONING THINGS NOW? JUST GO WITH ME NOW!”

They fast walk out of the Castle and to its front yard where UN Vampire soldiers salute to the General and Bahamut.

“SIR!”

“Ah, good to see the Vampire Corps all well and good.”

“Uhm sir, do you have an Armband?”

“Huh? No, I never took one. Why would I need one? Doesn’t the medals on my chest already say what type of rank I hold?”

“But sir, even then… you know how the Vampires are.”

“Ugh, okay. Give me one.”

“Yes sir.”

The soldier goes inside the Gaz Tiger and gives him a Gold coloured Armband with Romanz text on it.

“Left arm sir.”

As he puts it on, the player transforms into a demon which scares the living crap out of the General. Bahamut, knowing that it's just morph magic being used, sighs as the man runs through the courtyard. “RAHHHH!” the scary seven foot tall late level Demon Scourge with its iconic long aerials and exposed fangs from its mouth. “NO! FUCK NO! HELP! WHERE IS MY GUN?! BAHAMUT! GET CLOSER I NEED TO TELEPORT MY GUN!” unable to borrow mana from the Dragon God and in his uniform that’s devoid of any enchantments.

He steels himself and stops, skidding at the snow and turning around violently with his fist flying straight into the head of the high level demon. A sudden billow of smoke comes out of nowhere and a knocked out soldier is on the ground. His colleague walks up to him and giggles.

“Sorry sir, he's a bit of a dick.”

“The fuck was that for? Trolling a General? Where’s the professionalism in this ragtag army?”

The man then gets up. Awakening from the powerful punch. “Gotcha’ sir.”

“Soldier, are you aware of my rank and name?”

“Sir yes sir!”

“When were you deployed here?”

“Five days ago when the rest of the unit sir.”

The General faces the friend. His face was not angry, but confused at the action of the soldier. “What’s his deal?”

“He is the Company clown sir.”

He then transforms into a super shiny ruby with legs, gaining the attention of Bahamut.

“Yo bro. I’m talking to you as a person, not as your General. You do not want to do this-”

Before he could close his mouth, Bahamut was already on the ruby. Its small tiny human legs ran fast, dodging the woman as he plopped into the pile of snow on the Castle’s courtyard. “Pffffft…” he couldn’t hold it in, at the sight of his Dragon companion face planting the snow and laughing out loud which infects the other soldier. The Ruby then mockingly dances in front of her as she lifts her head from the snow. Her golden eyes with a strange spiral around it.

The player didn’t even notice it, but he was already taken and in an open empty void of darkness. “Oh shit…” back in the physical world, the other UN soldier is going crazy at the fact that his friend just disappeared into the abyss. “Calm down! Bahamut, bring him back!” the Dragon shakes her head. Saying no.

“Bahamut… do it. NOW.”

She wells up, and a dark portal opens above them. Dropping a fully geared UN troop into a pile of snow. He lifts his head from it and makes a thumbs up.

“I can’t believe the two of you haven’t even angered a Vampire yet…”

“Haaaah… believe me sir. I have no idea how we’ve even lasted this long. We’re not even level thirty.”

“Did the both of you enter the UN Expeditionary Forces at the bare minimum of twenty?”

“Yes sir and my friend here put all of his magic and skills into party magic.”

“I see, he better be good with a gun then. Because the Demons and those we’ve been fighting are getting better and are adapting. Soon, our guns might be just an annoyance to them and no longer an equalizer.”

“Eh? Sir?”

“Regardless, Mister Troll. Come here.”

“Sir!” with his uniform covered in white snow and his face drenched with it. The high ranking officer couldn’t muster enough of a serious face to chew him out. “J-just give me the armband.” putting it on, he then looks at the Dragon.

“Alright. And Bahamut?”

“No. I don’t want it.”

“Eh? Just take one, you also look like a human.”

“I have fangs Master! And look at my eyes! It's slits, not circles like you humans!”

“Which is not noticeable since you have such a dark Veil over your head, and your exposed ears are that of a normal human.”

“Still no.”

Slouching his back. Paul pockets the second armband and and thanks the two soldiers as they walk outside the Castle gates. Even covered with snow, the city's Mansions still looked as dazzlingly expensive and well built as ever. With their arms together, the two take a slow walk through the sidewalk, enjoying the sights of the wonderful place.

The Victorian architecture of the city gave him a vibe he had never experienced before. Even as a human, he could clearly see the city planners gave it their all in making sure everything is within reach of your own foot. Only needing horses or to ride public transport if it was something truly specific. The streets were all clean and the manure of horses quickly fetched by the city’s slaves to clean up. Everything was spotless and perfect, just like the citizens that lived inside it.

“No matter how much we’ll try, I’m pretty sure no player guild with the best architectures in the world can replicate structures like these.”

“Hm, but Master, you humans create more crazy things. Like that big tower that was supposed to reach space.”

“That’s the Men of the Woods and its obsessive compulsive disorder in making tall and big things, to wide and armored things with guns on it. I seriously think they’re just using all of the magical and enchanted steel to create the most insane structures man can think of and boast about it on social media.”

“Yea, and Master always complains at how ineffective they are.”

“Of course, it's a waste of resources that you can put to something else, like maybe arms? Because the shortage of those rare steel is so bad, Magical Armor on tanks is only given to Platoon headquarter tanks and company leader tanks.”

“Yes, yes, yes Master.”

“And like, I get the fact that none of them are career politicians and Generals but Jesus Christ the way they’re running this show is like, ten times worse than the ones back on Earth. I find it shocking how fast they turned from roleplayers and larpers in a Full Dive game to speaking the same way as real politicians would… and even master the art of politicians failing upwards no matter how much they screw up.”

“Maybe it's just natural in all humans, and would be the reason why those groups are against us from returning home.”

“Either way, I’m not being told enough… actually so many of us aren’t being told enough, it’s like they're scared of giving us information Bahamut! Can you believe this?”

“Yes, yes, yes. Calm down Master, your veins might pop.”

Bahamut puts the General closer to her. Pulling his arms tighter to her side and then started patting his head.

“I would usually just land on the top of your head but since I have a human body, I can do this. He-he.”

Since she was seven inches taller than the man, she had no problem stroking his head. The Knight-General didn’t protest and let her be, seeing her earnest smile underneath her veil. Turning right, the two are shocked that it's nothing but a long line of Manors.

“Uhm… Master, did we take the right exit?”

“Ah crap…”

Facepalming, the two turn back and almost tip over a man pulling a cart.

“Oh shit sorry!”

“No problem, ahhh… yea, loads all secured.”

The man was wearing a proper suit and tie, though a Vampire, his eyes weren’t looking down on the two and seemed normal. Though his voice was low and his tone, powerless, the bloodsucker seemed like he couldn’t hurt a fly.

“WOAH! Master look!”

“EH!?”

Paul turns his head to the left and sees that Bahamut is already rummaging through the contents of the cart.

“I apologize so much for her, I’ll be sure to punish her.”

He then runs to the back and drags Bahamut from making a mess of his stock as she holds onto a Horror Manga.

“Huh?”

“Y-yes, that’s my product. I’m a Mangaka. Would you be interested in one?”

“What’s a Mangaka doing in the most dangerous continent and in the Vampire Kingdom nonetheless? Heck, how did you even bring all this stuff here?”

“It wasn’t really hard, with Vampire powers, I can lift multiple tons without a problem.”

“Master! Master! Buy this please!”

“I’ve actually been doing this since the first months of being teleported here.”

“Wait a fucking sec, so your the reason why Alana knows how to say Ara-ara! Nice.”

“Oh, a fellow man of culture.”

“Even in another world, the council meets.”

He took the Manga from her and could see it in perfect American English. But each panel was so horrific and disgusting, even triggering some of his memories of when he was still in service from how accurately it depicts mangled human bodies.

“GEEZ, Bahamut? Are you into this?!”

“No, but I find it very interesting Master, now buy me one please!”

“Ehhhh… what currency do you take?”

“Relouse and Aeralous coins.”

“And this one is…?”

“One silver coin.”

“Uh huh.”

Taking the pouch from his pocket, he opened it and could see Alana gave him way more than is needed. He then turned his head to Bahamut whose eyes were sparkling from each well drawn panel. The Mangaka on the other hand couldn’t help but think to himself who the beautiful pale woman was and why looking at her gives him a feeling of fear, that she’s someone who he could be running from.

“Pick five and let’s go.”

“Hm!”

Bahamut then opens the flap and starts rummaging through the Mangas he had in stock. Since her gown showed the outline of her body, the two couldn’t help but stare at her rear. Even with her scrawny and slim body, her bust was complimenting it well. Like her body is that of a Goddess.

“Ahem, Bahamut. Why are you so into Horror so much? I never knew you were into this.”

“Hmmm? You never noticed Master? When we go into Haunted Mansions and Dungeons, I never react harshly aside from some rare moments. But you on the other hand would throw up your arms and start swinging your sword wildly.”

“W-WELL… HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO REACT? DO YOU KNOW HOW SCARY IT IS TO FIGHT GHOSTS AND DEMONS?”

“Excuses Master, excuses. They’re merely lost souls. One shouldn’t be afraid of them and help them move on.”

“Yea, well since now you're in a human body, you’ll see how terrifying it is to be attacked by a transparent mangled body. Uueegghh…” remembering the encounters, the man shivers in the snow filled sidewalk.

“And Master, I literally wear a Funeral Gown everyday.”

“I thought it was something about your entire shtick of being like a Dragon of the Void.”

“It is, and the aesthetic too! Look at how good it compliments my body and my skin tone! And Master, I do not like seeing people staring at my face. It feels very weird.”

“You literally look like a beautiful Grim Reaper of sorts. Heck, didn’t the Vampires even say how much you look more of a stereotypical Vampire than them?”

“Thank you Master, that is what I was exactly going with when I got this outfit made for me by the Bahamut Dragon Cult. A beautiful Grim Reaper, heh. Took it right out of my mind, Master.”

With a contented expression, Paul nods in agreement that it does indeed suit her and her beauty.

“You have good taste. Bit too brutal Gothic in my eyes but it does walk that thin line nicely.”

“Hm hm hm hm. I do see what you mean, Mister General.”

“Right? Her gown is thin too, but its dark colors really make her stand out in the snow like this and the ornate design of it is super good. Makes her look like a late game enemy boss that you should totally be afraid of.”

The Mangaka then walks up next to him nodding in agreement with his hand up his chin, also inspecting the Dragon God.

“You and your wife seem to be a power couple.”

“Really? Well, if she’s my wife. Then she’s one hell of a wife that’s for sure. This woman has been the bane of my life for the last five years, getting me in so much trouble with her lack of obedience to human rules and cultures, stealing food and jewelry occasionally… and I couldn’t be happier.”

“Wait, you aren’t married? Hm, but seeing how you two interact and how you speak of her, is strange.”

“Really?”

Little to the two’s knowledge was Bahamut’s hearings. Her hearing of her Master’s happiness for the half a decade they’ve spent so far made her smile. She then finishes picking five Mangas and pays the man.

“Thank you again for buying!”

He makes a forty five degree bow with his hands in the side.

“Oh uhm no problem… Why are you here anyways? If you keep coming back since the first month of teleportation, that means there’s business to be made right?”

“Heh, the Nobles here pay big money for art. Many are also bored and in need of great entertainment, when I thought of this. I knew I would make it big here so I took the risk and smuggled myself on the first ship to Schon..”

“Uh huh, seeing that suit of yours. I’m guessing it's going extremely well?”

“Uhm… we’ll see. Because I still need to exchange the currency when I get home in Vanarius. Neo Tokyo got teleported there, so it's just one boat really. Wars and such really is a hassle in the economy of things.”

“I get you. I truly do.”

Bahamut hands over the bag of five mangas to him.

“Alright, we’ll have to return to the Castle and go out the other way. Good day. Bahamut, keep that thing close to you alright? The wind is blowing a bit too powerful right now.”

“Thank you again!”

With their arms together, the two walk back to the freshly painted Castle. The Mangaka just smiled and shook his head. “I guess Bahamut has found her friend. Hm, I hope I won’t have to see her in Global events again… phew that was scary”