"Hm, Are you sure you guys want to sell me this stuff? I mean I know the Game is ending but they promise to transfer most of your materials to the new game." Dozens of guilds have come together to sell me not only the guild houses but all the materials too. The deeds of the higher ones would cost thousands of gold. But they are selling for half of that. The leader of this 'alliance' sent a smile emoji at me. "Yeah we're sure, besides they said they'll transfer all the gold to the 'Loyal' Players. And you are the richest player in the game. So Win/win right?" I couldn't deny that, and it is a sound plan.
"Okay, but are you sure you want me to buy it at half price? Full price would be better." I sent a thinking emoji. He responds with a shrug, "We're pretty sure you can only have so much at the start. After all, it took a year and a half for the player based economy to settle in Yggdrasil." I nodded, "Alright let's finish this trade. I got to reorganize your homes near my guild hall." He sent a thinking Emoji at me. "Why? The game ends in a few days." I sent a smile emoji. "Mostly because I have a bit of OCD and I don't want to leave the Shining City in disrepair."
After the trade, I added the buildings to my city. My old Guild was a great team. Building up our businesses to be able to buy/sell and resale. Even when the Top 9 Guilds allied to stop the Guild of Ainz Ooal Gown, they needed money. So we supplied them with all kinds of gear. Now that the game is ending, hundreds of guilds have been selling to me. Most of them couldn't stop the gold printing business that I have. Hence why I bought up all the mines left and right of old guilds. *Beep* "Hm? Yes?" "Hey Jackal, I was wondering if you're willing to buy our guild halls?" 'Another one?' "Uh sure, I'm currently in my City. Head there I'll meet you at the Transport hub." "Okay I'll see you in a bit."
'I wonder who they could be? I should've asked for a name.' I finished up my current building and transport to the Hub. There I see a Dwarf in Gold plate. 'Really the Allied Leader? Here?' He does a bow. "Hi, I'm Garion. I'm here to sell our Guild Halls." I bow to him, "I'm always happy to buy. How do you want to sell? Full, half, less?" He sent a smile emoji to me. "We would like to sell at full price please. After all we aren't selling just the Halls and Materials. We're selling the NPCs in them as well." I nodded, "Okay, please allow me a moment to see if I have the amount." He gets into a thinking position.
I began to calculate the amount. 'Hm, it's gonna be tight. But I should have enough left over, to get them. Wait..' "I only see the Top 9 Guilds here. I would expect the Guild of AOG to join to sell off their stuff." He sent a shrug emoji, "We went a few weeks ago to ask for them to join so we could sell as the biggest Guild Alliance in the Game. But Momanga didn't want to. Said that he likes to stay at the top." 'I won't be able to buy them after this anyway.'
I nodded and sent a trade note to Garion. He sent an agreement to me. After that I checked my Gold number, 'Only a thousand.' Garion sent a happy face emoji. "Glad to do business with you. Hope to do so again in the Next Game." I wave him Goodbye. Now I had 9 huge halls to integrate into my City. 'Maybe time to build up my Walls again?' I work at it for the rest of the week. Soon the day came, I sat in my Throne Hall. Every pillar in the Hall was carved with Every guild member that ever joined. In the others in between the Pillars were the Flags of the Minor members.
Outside the main Citadel, were the Rings of Walls. Four of them. The middle of them is where the Citadel sits. Outside that is the Grand Markets, Library, Cathedral and Storages. Outside of them is the Civilian district. It was made to House the PCs and NPCs that we employed. Though now it was mostly a ghost town. The buildings are all large apartments, each one made to support large parties. It is the Largest of the Ring Districts. The third ring district was called The Grand Barracks. It was called that because of the fully upgraded NPC spawners that will protect the city.
It houses every kind of spawner. Warriors, wizards, rogues, and plenty more. It also houses the Blacksmiths of the Shining City. Finally is the newest addition to the City, the Guild District. It was the second largest district. Due to the fact of having most of the Guilds of the being put together in one large building. Mostly the lower guilds, while mid to high guilds were put separately. The top nine made the Entrance to the City. A Large Bridge was made with Eight of the Halls. They line it from front to back. While the Second place holder Guild, The Knights of Odin, Make the entrance to the City itself. Under the Bridge was a Large Mote that surrounds the fourth ring. With an ecosystem of deadly creatures and sea plants.
'Only a few minutes till the game ends. I wonder what's gonna happen in the next game?' In front of the throne were the top three NPCs. They were based on my favorite characters in fantasy novels. Gandalf the Blacked, The Night Lord, and of course Lord Voldemort. I based Gandalf on if he had taken the One Ring from frodo. The Night Lord is from Game of Thrones though I had to change his title to Lord. And Lord Voldemort Looks more like his Old self rather than the Snake hybrid that he becomes.
Behind them are their top forces, Gandalf has the RingWraiths, The Night King has the top White walkers, about five of them, while Voldemort has 12 of his Death Eaters. They stood there staring at me. I raise my hand. "Bow." They do so. I look at the clock and see that I have a few more seconds till the game servers shut down.I close my eyes, feeling sleep take over me. After a few minutes I could smell something.. Something different. My eyes open and I see that I'm still in the Throne Room. 'Did they Push it back?' I go to tap on the menu, nothing happens. "Are you alright, Your Highness?" I looked up and saw that the NPC's were staring at me. This time with comprension in their eyes. The one who spoke was Gandalf.
"Did you speak?" 'My voice is deeper? What the?' Gandalf rises, "Yes, Your Highness. I was concerned, you seemed shocked at something." Hm, "Gandalf send out your Ringwraiths, to scout out the surroundings. Voldemort, Do the same." They nodded and they went to it. "Night Lord, Send your Walkers to the Grand Barracks and have them start producing troops. We need scouts and riders." He nods and heads out. I rise up and head to my room. Once I was there I looked at myself in the mirror. Pale skin, Dull red eyes, pointed ears, trimmed black beard with a hint of dark gray, and fangs. Being an Elder Vampire was different then how I envisioned it. I wanted to look like a disquinished being. With a history of old money, prestige and power. The clothes I was wearing were a fine suit that was made with spider silk. Black with deep red accents.
Now I notice that my heart is beating so slowly that it might as well be still. My senses are heightened by a large degree. I can smell the faintest hint of old parchment. I can hear the tapping of footsteps. On this floor alone. 'Depending on where we are, people won't like it if a large fortress appears in their lands. Might as well be careful.' "Shadow?" My shadow rose up in my reflection. "Send a message to the rest of the Overlords and warchiefs. We are raising the Security level to 4." The shadow nods and fades into the background. I walked out and headed back to the Hall.
I also realize that I was in much better shape then I was. I can feel the muscles of my new form work in unison. Once I was in the Hall. I see the assorted high lords of the Citadel. 15 Overlords, 45 warchiefs, and 90 Captains. All in various armors and robes. The moment they saw me, they kneeled. I sat down and took a breath. "My lords, it has come to my attention that we may be in hostile lands. Yggdrasill may be gone or that its environment has changed. We must be cautious of this New World." It was at this moment that Voldemort spoke up.
"We have scouted the surrounding area. We are in a frozen tundra and currently a blizzard is happening right now." I nodded, "Have any fire elementals stay inside. While summoning ice elementals, also spread the high level winter gear to all available soldiers." I turn to Gandalf, "Gandalf, your job is to locate places to set up towns in our name. Though I would wait till the Blizzard passes." He bows, and heads out. "Voldemort, you'll assist him." He bows and follows Gandalf. The Night Lord is still busy getting the Army operational. "My Lords and chiefs. I am going to be reorganizing your companies." They began to murmur to each other. I raised my hand.
They quieted down almost instantly. "Those of the Barbarian classes shall be reformed into a new group. The Hoard. Those of the Fighter classes shall be turned into the The Templar Knights Order. The Paladins shall become a New Paladin Order, I'll come up with a proper name at a later time." I take another breath, "The Rangers shall be called The Seekers Conclave. All Sorcerers, Wizards, and Warlocks shall be organized into the College of Winterhold. Monks shall be part of the Hercule Dojo Academy. Druids shall be known as the Preservers of the Circles."
"The Clerics shall be the bases of the New Church of the North Star. Blood Hunters shall be the Order of Hunters. While Bards shall be The Bards College. The Artificer's shall be called The Foundry. The Rogues However will be split into several groups. Those of the Inquisitive, Scout, Mastermind, and Phantom classes, Shall be made into the Information Bureau. The Arcane Trickster, Swashbuckler and Thief classes shall be the Thieves Guild. The Assassin's and Soul Knives shall be called the Hidden Ones."
I let out a sigh, the lords began to discuss amongst themselves. I then got up and went to the Barad-dur Tower. It was called that because it houses the most powerful Magi-Scope in Yggdrasill. It was fully upgraded to see the farthest then most Magi-scoop. It was in an open canopy, the blizzard whips at me. I hardly felt it. 'Time to see if the magic system still works.'"Weather Control: Clear Skies!" The blizzard slowed down till there was nothing but a blue sky of thick clouds. I then looked into the Magi-Scope and saw that at several thousand kilometers was a great mountain range. I zoomed in and saw the tiniest amount of movements. 'People? They must know that I just did that. Well then I better up the Security Status.' "Shadow, Send a note to everyone. Sec-Stat is being raised to 5."
I felt my shadow seep into the Citadel. I zoomed out and looked for Gandalf and Voldemort. They have already started to set up several outposts and various towns. 'Hm, fast workers. Oh they're using the transport hub to teleport the workers and materials. They are smart, aren't they?' I then try to contact Gandalf, only to realize that I don't know how to do that without a prompt. After about 10 minutes I figured it out. "Gandalf, are you there?" I hear a bit of shuffling, "I am here Your Highness. Do you need me?" I look at the People of the Wall. "I can see the Mountain range at the far end of this Winter land. They no doubt know that the Blizzard was stopped by magical means. I won't you and Voldemort to reinforce any and all towns and posts that you made so far. Also I want you to settle down in one of them. Just to be safe."
"At once My Liege." I went back down and called forth the Honor guards. These were based on the Star Wars Red Guard. Though they don't just defend me they also buff me and my allies in battle. There were about a hundred of them. We went outside and walked to the outer wall. On the way there both the inner and second Rings were empty. While the Third and Forth was busy with traffic the Guild District was being sorted by the newly named organizations. While the Grand Barracks is pumping out soldiers and armaments.
While the Great 9 of the Bridge was at the ready to sort out any invader. I went to the stables and pulled up my mount. It was a Giant Dire Wolf, named Fangmire. My Honor Guard got on their own dire wolves. Each bearing the symbol the Shining City Crest. Rising mountain of Gold and Jewels against a black background.
'Might need to change that. Don't want future partners to think we're only in it for the money.' We ride out till we make it to the First Fort. After a few minutes, we arrived at the Fort. We're met by Gandalf and Voldemort. "My Lords, I'm glad that the building up of the towns and outposts are doing good." I slide off Fangmire.
They bow their heads. They step aside while Voldemort speaks. "The Death-Eaters and Nazgul are in position to continue south. Not to mention we are also ready to spread further out and around." I nodded, "We'll need a steady supply of items from beyond the Mountain Range. We may need to bow to other Kings and Lords, Voldemort grimaces at this. "I detest that, You are our Immortal King, they should be bowing to you."
Gandalf nods in agreement, I shake my head. "We're in unknown territory, for all we know this is a world where Gods go to die. Or where Devils learn to rise. We must use caution when it comes to the people of this world." They think on it for a moment then nod in agreement.
"For now, you may continue with the building. While I'll head back and figure out how to turn this new land into something of worth. Also start going around with a small force. I don't want to lose any of you because you think you're too strong." They nod and I head back.
Fangmire loves the openness of the frozen plain. So when we got to the bridge I told him to go off and scout. He took off with a dozen of the dire wolves. The honor guard filed around me as I made my way back to the Grand Library. 'Is this how the President feels? I never had such.. Protection before.' Once there I went to a table and asked the Guard to find any and all books on spells.
I've been reading about various magic abilities. I made sure that My build boost not only Charisma but kept a balance at defensive power. Though I found that magic is weird to use in real life. I also found myself remembering everything I had done, and currently everything I've read. I sighed a bit, then looked at one of the Maids that the Citadel has. She brought me a Cup of Red tea? 'Wait is that Blood? Of course I'm a Vampire, I must drink it every now and then.'
"Thank you dear." I picked up the cup and took a sip. It was surprisingly good. I drank a bit more, before I put the cup down. I turned to her. "Thank you dear." She blushes a bit, "Of course your highness. I am here to serve your every whim." 'Wow really? Wait.. Every whim? That's not good, better put a stop to that.'
"Not every whim dear, I know that you think that's a good thing and in some cases it is. But I do not wish to abuse my position to take advantage of you or any of my subjects." Her face turns a deeper red, "O-of course Your Highness, I would never wish to presume such a thing. Please forgive me." She fell into a kneeling pose.
"Calm dear, I just wanted to make sure, You and when you meet the others, that I don't attend to such a thing." I helped her to her feet. "Of course My Liege." After that and a bit more reading, I got up to head to the Barad-Dur tower again. But when I exited the Library I noticed that it was dark. I turned to the Guard Captain of the Honor guard.
"How long was I in there?" It looks up and then at me. "8 hours Your Highness." 'They stood there for 8 hours?! Loyalty is one thing but Fanaticism is another.' "Did you guys at least change guards? Or eat?" He stared for a second. "We need very little to survive. As such we care only a few rations. And we changed guards, So that others may watch you as we check the parameter."
"Did you take a break, at all?" "No." I sighed at that, "I'm going to need to adjust the time frames for better use." He nods, "At any rate we should get some sleep." We made our way to the Citadel, I noticed that the hall to my room was lined with Honor guards. As I pass them they thump their chest. When I made it to my room. The captain took the opposite of my door. I took off my clothes and laid down on my bed. 'I'm surprised I didn't add a coffin to the room. Though why would a royal Vampire need one?'
I lay there, waiting for sleep to take me. Waiting and waiting… I got up and looked at the grandfather clock. I stared at it in shock. It's been 11 hours already. What the hell? But I didn't sleep! At all!' I got out of bed and put on new clothes. I walked out and the guard was waiting.
"I'm going up to Barad-Dur. Please take a break." They stood and looked at each other. The captain speaks up, "His Highness, told us to relax for a few hours. Go get something to eat, shower and rest till you are called upon again." They snapped a salute and proceeded to head away from the room.
I turned to the Captain, "Not going to join them?" He shakes his head, "That would be unwise, My King." I put a hand on his shoulder, "Go, that's an order." He literally sagged a bit. "Yes your Highness." He went down the corridor. And I shadow stepped to the Tower. I looked into the Magi-scope and saw that I wasn't the only one who stayed up all night.
Gandalf and Voldemort had completed numerous towns, forts, outposts and several Larger Forts. I looked to the mountain and found the 'People' Continuing to make a commotion about the unnatural weather pattern. I put my fingers to my head, "Gandalf and Voldemort please return to the Citadel. We'll need to discuss new Buildings for our troops and such."
I heard an agreement, and I made my way down to the War Room. Toka made this place just in case we had to fight other guilds. It was mostly a place to talk crap about the other guilds. But he made it so that it had every kind of battle strategy in both this game and others. As well as the real world.
I only had to wait for 10 minutes before My Top Leaders including The Night Lord made it to the War Room. I nod my head to them. "Thank you all for coming, Including you Night Lord." His voice came out like a whisper. "Of course You Highness." I activated the War-Table. It showed the Shining City and the Various places that were set up. I turn to the Night Lord, "Tell me How many troops have been produced since I've given the order?"
He closes his eyes for a minute, "Several thousands and three times as many are on the way. They are being split up to the New Groups. Though most are going to the Hoard and Templar Orders." I nodded, and turned to the Other two, "I need you to build a few new buildings for the groups."
I selected the towns, "Here I would like the towns to have Churches for the North Star. As well a place for the Paladin order. Hm. Let's call them the Paladin's of the North Star. Next to have a small barracks for both Ranger and Templars." I then selected the outposts and small Forts.
"Smaller Churches but bigger groups of the Rangers and Templars. Also make sure to add the Info-Bureau and the Thieves Guild, Please have them hidden. Next are the Larger Forts." I selected them next, "I want them to have a large church to add to the forts. But instead of a Thieves guild I want there to be a Hidden Ones Base. Also make sure that every one of these places has a large teleporter to make troop and Supplies easier"
I sigh a bit and look at the others. "Any Questions?" Gandalf raises his hand. "What of the Hoard? Shouldn't they get a location or are they staying here in the City?" I nod, "I'm going to give them one of the Larger Forts. It'll handle only the Top tier of their group. While the rest are going to support them from the nearby smaller outposts and forts. I want them to be my main weapon against any and all opposition."
He nods, The Night Lord raises his hand. "What of the Dead? The underground tombs are full of them. They could be made to help with such tactics or they could alleviate the Builders. Give them a chance to go back and upgrade the last buildings they did." I smiled, "That's a good idea, contact Tobirama and get him and his Liches to start. After his meeting of course."
He nodded, And I looked at Voldemort? He clears his throat a bit. "I believe that we need to establish Noble lines and Territories amongst this vast new land. Even if we are in the Far North. We only had one city back then. Now, we are establishing a new regime in this land. You can't dictate everything in the new Kingdom."
'I hadn't thought of that.. Hm Perhaps I need to look over several of the New Overlords and make some Dukes and Barons.' "Verywell since it was you who came up with the idea, You'll be dubbed The Duke of Winterhold." They looked Confused, "Winterhold?" I nod and smile "I'm renaming the Shining City. Plus I would very much like to change our flag into something else."
Voldemort again looks confused, "Shouldn't you have the title? After all you are our King?" I shake my head, "No, Like you said, I hold the Title of King. Not only that if I'm away on business or whatnot, I'll need you to watch over the Kingdom." I turned to the other two, "Would you like to be made a Duke or Baron?" Gandalf shakes his head.
"I would very much like to be head of the College. If you Approve of course?" I nodded, The Night Lord sighs, "I would like to establish my own house." Again I nodded, "Then I dubbed you the Baron of House Targaryen. May you bring a song of Ice and Fire. You may choose either a Stay here, occupy a large fort or have a castle built for you in one of the new regions that we acquire."
He nods, then thinks for a second. "I may be Targaryen, but what is my name? The Night Lord sounds like a title more than a name." 'I don't want him to be called by the Tradenital names that are associated with House. Hm..' I smiled, "I name you Robert Targaryen the First." He bows his head, everyone looks happy. "Now for the other Dukes, Barons and Arleans. For that I would like to have you two help me divide the top Lords and such."
They nodded, "But first I need to stretch my legs. I'll contact you when I'm ready to begin." I left the room and shadowstep to the Food Hall. So that I can eat, I notice that I don't need to eat for Long periods of time' 'But I want to try out their cooking.'
When I got there the whole room stood at attention. 'Seriously?' I raise my hands, "Please don't stop eating on my account. I'm here to do the same." They smiled at each other and sat back down. Immediately I can hear whispers about me. "That's the King? He looks so regel." "I know, It's a no wonder everyone respects him back home." 'Hm, I wonder why nobody is scared of me. It can't just be about me being a King? Can it?'
I pick up a number of foods and they give me a choice of Blood. One was called King's blood. Apparently it was drawn from a Yggdrasil Native King. I sat down and began to eat, hearing more from the Populace. "I wonder why he's down here. Shouldn't he have his own dining hall?" I hear a bunch of Giggles and then I hear a reverb voice, "Isn't it obvious? He's scouting."
Several repeated her, "What do you mean, Scouting for what?" She chuckled again. "Why for a Bride." I took a drink. 'A Bride?! Are people pining for me already? What? Thank god for my dulled emotions.' I continue eating. "Cerby! You can't be serious! If he's looking for a Bride, why would He come down to the commons?"
I can 'Cerby' scoff as if it was obvious, "Like I said he's scouting. After all, we were all designed by the Royals. Which means we all have the potential to be more than what we are." 'Royals? Wait, does she mean the Original Guild Members? There were only 4 of us. But I guess they would hold them in High Regard.'
Before I knew it I was finished. I went to hand in my dishes. "Thank you dears, your food is excellent as always." They bow their heads, Then I walk up to the small group. "Guys, what are you looking at?" Cerby turns around. All three of her heads gap at me.
"A Bride huh? I've been around for years. And Been a King for half as long. But I'm afraid that I won't be able to take one. Not with my own people sadly. Though all of you would make excellent queens." I smiled at her and everyone around. I wink at Cerby then I shadowstep out, ending up back in the War Room. Where I found Voldemort and Robert.
They were looking at potential Noble lines for the Kingdom. "Did you guys not leave?" Robert looked up. "No My liege, we had food brought to us. We wished to get ahead of this." I nodded and sat down, "What do we have then?" "We have 7 Candidates for Nobility, Each of these could be made Dukes. We have 18 that could be made Barons with and three times as many Arlings."
I looked at Voldemort, "First I think that Duke of Winterhold should have 3 Barons and 6 Arlings under him. However if Lord Robert decides to stay in the City you'll have to choose 2 barons and 4 Arls." He nods and turns to Robert. "What do you say? If all three of us are in the Capital. Well be a force to reckon with."
I raise my hand, "Another option, Instead of a baron, you could be named Duke and take over one of the New Keeps out in the New Regions. Don't get me wrong, Having you and all the High End nobles in the Capital would make this place untouched for the remainder of this world's time."
I looked at him, "But having one of my trusted Lords out there protecting us. Will go a long way too." He thinks about it for a moment. "I will take the Duke Title." Voldemort smiles and I clap a few times. I look down on the map. Already the towns have grown a bit more. The larger towns have a few more things.
Taverns and schools are being added. Not to mention Hospitals. It's mostly for producing health potions and having Healer Mages ready to heal the Sick or dying. Roads are being built, even though we don't technically need them. Building them will help commerce in the future.
"Voldemort? I think your old name should be used in noble affairs." He thinks about it, "I would like to change Riddle though. If at all possible?" I nodded, "Duke Tomas Marvolo Salazar Slytherin. Of House Slytherin." He bows his head. "Thank you, my King." I chuckled a bit, "It's no problem, After All I am the Immortal King. I should be able to throw the title around when I need to." We laugh in good humor. Till a knock came to the door.
Robert speaks, "Enter." Young Vampire enters, shadow surrounds her. "My King we have come into contact with a group calling themselves Workers.They have been placed at furthest Fort." 'Really already? It must've been a big scare if someone sent an adventuring group already.' I stood, "Well then, let's meet our neighbors. My Dukes, I think you should head to your posts. Robert, pick one of the Keeps and have the undead build you a Castle to your liking." I walked to the Transport Hub, and called upon my Honor Guard.
Though I had to send 90 away, just the top ones for now. We ported through and arrived moments later. I was met with Fort Commander, A Human Knight. "My Liege, the Workers are at the Barrack. If you'll follow me please." I nodded and he led us to the Barracks. We entered and the 'Workers' looked surprised to see me.
"Are you this 'King' they keep talking about?" The one that spoke had a scar over his eye. He wore a patch over it. "Greetings, I'm King Mathias Cronqvist Vlad Dracula Tepes. To the people here I'm nicknamed the Immortal King, The Impaler, Spawn of the Devil, Son of the Dragon, Lord of Shadows. But to you? You may call me King Vlad."
They looked shocked at that. The man with the Scar gets a serious look, "I'm guessing the Immortal bit comes from you being a Vampire?" The others looked at the humans in Barrack, 'Were they hoping to shock them? If that's the case then they don't like monsters.'
"Yes the Being the Elder Vampire that I am, Does mean that I can't die." The blond man smirks, "Is that so, well maybe this will change your mind!" He flashes a silver dagger. "Silver?" His smirks falters a bit. I shrugged, "I haven't been weak to Silver since my 2nd Century. But if you need me to prove it?"
I held out my hand, He looked scared now. He put it away, "Now that is over with. I want to know who you are?" I sat down at the table. "Please I just need broad terms. Are you from beyond the mountain range?" They nodded and a man with a beard spoke up. "We're Workers from the Baharuth Empire, we were sent to find out how the Eternal Blizzard stopped."
'Oh shit no wonder they freak out, That thing must've been going on for centuries.' I nodded, "Would you like me to put it back? I'm sure it was a fine Marvel to look at." Scar looked like he was about to kill over. The other two aren't far behind. "In any case would it be possible to open trade between us?"
They looked at each other and nodded. Hours later they were heading back to the wall. I contacted Tom. "Your Highness?" "Start ramping up production of all items. Priority is high quality non-magical items to mid level magical items." "At once, My liege."
By the time they came back with a royal Delegation. We had gotten much closer to the Mountain Range. I even had a Large Town Built so that I can house such a group. "Now presenting Emperor Jircniv Rune Farlord El-Nix of the Baharuth Empire." I stood up to welcome into the Throne room.
'Learning proper manners was a hassle. He was born into royalty, I wasn't.' The man that walked into the room was a young man. He smiled at me and bowed slightly. "Do not bow to me, your highness. It would be improper, At this moment." He gave me a smile, "I thank you, Great King. May we get on with the proceedings?"
I nod and direct him to a nearby door. "May only four enter. You and a trusted advisor." He nods and turns to an Older Gentleman. 'Caster, no doubt. Possibly able to teleport at long-distance. Or maybe be able to cancel the effects of other magics.' I turned to Gandalf. We entered the room and sat at the table.
The Emperor was the first to speak. "So may I ask, how long have you been in this land? From the history books the Eternal Blizzard has been here for centuries. We were only able to observe it until it cleared up a week and a half ago."
I nodded, "We've only been here for a bit longer. We were somewhere else waiting for the World to End. Then we found ourselves in this land. I immediately began expansion into the frozen tundra. Though I must admit that I wasn't expecting that there were others here."
He looked confused, "You were waiting for the world to end? Why?" I give him a sad smile. "The world was decaying, so the Gods called for a renewal. But for that the old one must be wiped clean away. Maybe this is the New World they spoke about? I do not know. But Me and Mine are here and we intend to secure our place in it."
He thinks for a moment, "The Workers we sent said that the first town that they met was further in the land. How fast can you expand?" 'Fishing for information, Well time to exaggerate.' I shrugged, "We have the power to expand indefinitely. If we run out of materials, we'll use the earth to build homes. If we run out of food, we'll summon creatures from another plane to eat."
The wizard scoffs, "That would be ineffective. The creatures from the other planes would avoid your summons, and the earth here is hard and unmoving. You'll have to be at least a 6 tier caster to even begin to use it." I smiled, making sure that my fangs were showing. "Then we better come up with a solution."
The Emperor had a sweat dropped down. "Perhaps we can open trade between us. We can provide materials and food, while you can sell items and such." I then snapped my fingers and three items appeared in front of us. Gandalf goes to unwrap them.
What was revealed was a Sword, a Chest piece for armor, and a Staff. The sword was of elven make, with beautiful inscriptions. The armor was made out of Enchanted Silver. While the Staff was based on Saruman's Staff. 'Saruman better not freak out that I rip off his staff.'
The older wizard looked at the chest piece and staff. While the Emperor was inspecting the sword. "I am unfamiliar with this inscription. What does it say?" I looked at it and smiled, "May you pay for the mile that you took." He smiled politely and turned to the wizard, who shook his head.
"The sword isn't enchanted, but these two must be well maintained. They are far too powerful to be sold off." I looked to Gandalf, He nodded, "The armor was made three days ago, while the staff was made only a day ago." The Wizard scoffs, "Do you mean to tell us that you can produce such items in short order with the level of enchantments?!"
Gandalf nods, "Of course we can, though I do not know what you mean by the level, they were made to be lightly enchanted." The Emperor looked shocked, while the Wizard sputtered.
After a few hours of tight negotiation, they left for their side of the mountain range. However I made sure to send off a dozen of my changelings to track down as much information as I can. Gandalf looks perplexed, "Something on your mind, friend?" He nodded, "Yes they were shocked that our low level enchantments were powerful. That has many implications."
"Yes, I figured that as well. Which means that they'll try to sell us less for more or the opposite." He turns to me, "Or they may find it worth a war." I nodded, "Been a good while since we had a War. But even if we go to war, They must be the ones to throw the First Punch."
He nods, as Voldemort comes into the Throne Hall, with an army of Candidates. I smiled brightly at them, 'It's going to be a long day.' "Welcome lords and ladies. We are happy to have you selected for positions of power that I will impose on you."
They bowed and I called forth the First to be selected for the Duke of the Eastern area. He was a wolf man, named Serka, Class Battle Master. "Serka, You're a Battle Master yes?" He nods, "Yes Great King, I was made to fight in the Old Fighting Pits. I won many battles."
I nodded, "Being a Duke requires patience and a Lot of paperwork. You can't just lead the charge into the enemy. If one of your Battle-brothers is captured, what would you do?" He thinks for a moment, "I'm unsure, I would want to get him back. Maybe called for aid?" I nod, "Yes but now you have to look at the cost of a single brother to the thousands others that may or may not die in the conflict. And if war doesn't happen, you'll have to negotiate for him."
I sighed, "Then you have to look at the material cost for your brother. Is he worth 100 gold or a 1000? But then you have to look at the importance of your brother. Is he worth the effort? If he is at the bottom, you'll need to decide if he is worth the risk. If he was at the top? You may need to decide that he has to die to keep the Kingdom as a whole safe."
Whispers started up, 'I know it's harsh, but that's what I have to do. I have to make sure that they understand Price of a soldier. The Worth of a Kingdom.' Serka kneels, I saw tears coming from his eyes. 'Wait! Was I too harsh? Oh man, I hope I didn't crush his spirit!'
He raised his head up, "My King, I regret to inform you that I can't do that. To me my brothers are worth more than the gold lines in your halls. Or jewels that hang above in the sky. Forgive me." I smiled, I stood and walked to him. "Rise Serka, you do your brother's credit. The Royals would've been proud. You may not be worthy of the title of Duke. But I shall name you Arl of the East. The Duke and barons will have you to take under their wings."
A maid came up to us and presented a signet ring. It bore a symbol of the old Shining City. It reshaped itself to his finger. "Thank you my king! I'll make you proud!" He walked over to the side as I went back to the Throne. The next person was a Female Vampire, named Nubic Talore. She is of my brood. "Hello dear, You are a Necromancer correct?"
She bows forward, 'And of course she chose to wear a loose top.' "Yes, your Highness." I gesture for her to continue, "I was one of the first of your creations. My goal is to elevate you and what belongs to you. Be it a kingdom or godhood."
"And if I don't want that?" It took her a good minute to process that. 'I think I see a loading bar on her.' "Surely you jest My King? You are a King, An Immortal one at that! Surely the world should be yours?" I stare for a good minute. If she wasn't undead, I would think she'd be sweating.
"Know this my Daughter of Shadow and Blood. If I want the World, I take it. But that is not what I want, for now. Fanaticism and pure Zeal, is more damaging than helpful. I'm not saying you can't worship me or other gods. But I am saying that you shouldn't put all Your Faith into me."
She looked lost, 'like I just told her that her god is dead.' "My dear, I love you and all the people of this new kingdom. But I can't allow blind faith to take hold of my Kingdom." She bows her head, "Forgive me Father, I'll step down." Steps aside, After another hour or so we have 9 new Dukes(including Tomas), 20 barons and Arlings. Some of the Original choices step down after my speeches.
That's one of the main things about ruling. You have to be harsh enough to put people in their place. Even if they are your children. 'That was brutal, I'm going to need a drink.' I stood up and headed to the War Room. On the way there, I asked a maid to get me something to drink. She nodded and rushed off.
I enter the Room to find it empty. I then call forth my shadow. It rose up in the corner of the room. "Call for the ones that are in charge of the Changelings I sent to follow the delegation." It nods and fades back into the shadows. A moment later the maid came in with a bottle of Blood and a glass cup.
"I thought that you would like to try something else from your previous meal. This Wolven Blood, drawn from the forest of Hel." I smile, "Thank you dear, I'm glad you and the Staff are looking out for me." She blushes slightly, "Of course, My King."
When she left, three people appeared in the room. Each had a mask that represented an animal. "Your Highness, we are members of the Info-Bureau. We have been tasked to keep an eye on the changelings." I nodded. "I know it's only been a few hours. But I would like an update on them whenever something of note happens."
They nodded and the middle one stepped forth to the map and changed it. Now it shows the changelings progress into the new land. Every town they've come across they buy or steal maps. They also map out the area with their own minds. Useful thanks to the possession ability when used on Birds.
The map had filled out around the mountain range. Though two have gone much farther, I pointed to them. "I presumed that those two are with the Emperor?" The middle one, wearing a Boar mask, nods. "Yes sir, They thought it would be prudent to keep an eye on the royal capital." 'Good idea, though if they prove hostile, I'll need a way to get them out.. Or us in.' "Once in the Capital, have them go to secluded spots and place hidden Transport Circles. Then send them some help with more Changelings."
They nodded, "Have them do it at night. Remember secrecy is the priority, If there is even a chance of discovery. They are to abort the operation. And wait for a better chance." They nod again. "Now for the others, have them continue on the scouting mission. But to gather magic items and spells, if they found a major trade center, have them place Transport Circles."
I sighed as I poured my drink, I took a sip of it. 'Hm, earthy.' "For now the priority for the ones that are not heading for their Capital. Is to Gather information and maybe gather allies. Bandits, mercenaries, nobles with loose loyalties and morals."
'Maybe we should ally with one of the enemies of the Empire.. No, that's too dangerous, For now.' "If they come across slavers and abusers. They are to kill them, and send the victims here. For their safety and rehabilitation." The two in the back looked at eachother. While Boar tilts his head.
"May I ask why? They are part of a 'Potential' Enemy Nation. Why would we help them by feeding their damaged people? Wasting Resources?" I take a sip of my drink. "Do you know what I was before I became a king? Or a vampire?" He shakes his head. "I was a human, born from a mothers womb, seeded by a man who stole for bad people." He immediately fell to the ground.
"Forgive me! I didn't know, None of us knew. There is so little about the Royals, about you!" I chuckled slightly, "We didn't think to inform people. I wasn't born into the Kingdom until only 7 years ago. I've been a vampire for far longer. My Mother and Father are long dead."
I show him my hands, "I used to have calluses, I was in my early thirties when I was turned into a vampire. Now I have clean skin, no scars that used to litter my body. So we're going to help them." They nod in unison. I smiled, "Now tell our Agents out in the field, to get to a place to summon more of their brothers and sisters. Of the Ten I want them each to have two. The two that are on their way to the Capital will wait till the night."
They nod, I dismiss them after that. Tomas and Gandalf walked in after they left. "Hello friends, pull up a chair. Prepare to hear of a new construction idea. We'll need to have a place of healing. Where people of not only healing magic, but actual medicine. This will include health potions, bone setting and psychological matters."
They nodded and we got into the logistics of such an endeavor. After a few hours We decide to retire for the night. I went to my chambers when I got in the room I saw Cerby laying in a seductive pose on my bed. Or would've been seductive if she wasn't knocked out asleep.
I sighed and went to the office. I began to read my books, Dune was the first book I read. By the end of the night and the beginning of the day. I was just starting God Emperor of Dune. When the door opened with one of my Captain of the Guard looking in.
"Your Highness, Cerbererius is sleeping in your bed." I gave him a nod. "Would you like me to get rid of her?" I shake my head, "Let her have her sleep, From what shadow has been telling me, She 'risked' everything to get a chance with me."
He tilts his head, "Risk, Sire?" I nodded and smiled, "Yes, she waited for the guard to change, she managed to spread her scent on very expensive sheets, and she was ready for me to take her in ravenous lust. There are a few problems with that plan. One, she shouldn't have waited for hours, she should've done it half an hour when I was coming. Two, She should have me watched by one of her pack mates. And three, I myself am not ready for a relationship."
He nods and leaves me. I closed my book and headed out where she was still sleeping. I clapped my hands loudly. She instantly stood at attention, on my bed. "Get down Cerby." She got off the bed, and proceeded to bow. "No, Go get dressed dear."
She looked like she wanted to protest. But she wasn't fully awake, as one of her heads was still asleep. She moved out in a hurry. "Maybe I should find a wife. I mean I'll probably live for a long time." I changed into what could only be called roughing it clothing.
Minutes later I was standing in the middle of a field. With the Master of Arms, Sir Link of Hyrule. The old man gets into a stance. "Yah!" He charges and I charge back at him.