But unfortunately, sometimes the price is just too high for anyone to pay, and that includes the Rulers themselves.
I just hope that it is not the case with the Lizardmen, as I do want to do business with them in the near future simply because they are one of the most common species around. As a matter of fact, I like to conduct business with every species throughout the cosmos.
The reason is simple. Why not?
"From all walks of life…?" the Lizardman repeats. "You are a World Walker?"
I am not going to deny or confirm that, as it is better that way. In addition, a true World Walker would never acknowledge the fact for whatever reasons. Perhaps, it is to protect themselves since just having the power to travel anywhere instantaneously does not make them Gods.
And I do mean anywhere, including realities that only exist in pages.
"You sure know a lot of things," I response with a smile under my gasmask. It is because the Lizardman before me is not a transformed monster. He is transmigrated, as he has otherworldly knowledges. I've already speculated his origin as such when he has difficulty speaking English. "And I suppose that your desire is to return home – to the world that you were born to?"
The Lizardman growls and looks skywards. "As much as I and my people desire so, it is impossible, for we are… slave to her will."
He is referring to the Ruler of Life, and since he and his people can hear her voice, there is not much I can do. But that does not mean there is nothing I can do.
"Someone once said, if there is a will, there is a way," I point out. "It all depends on you, and what you and your people would give for that desire. But first, you and your men still owed me a debt, and I will have you all pay it."
"Debt…? I do not understand," the Lizardman responses.
I summon Amaterasu into my hand to remind him and his entourage. "Whether you attack my kind or not is of your own freewill. The same with all your people. She has not taken that from any of you, and therefore, it is my right to take your life in return."
The Lizardmen tense up.
"However," I continue and put Amaterasu away. "I will spare your life as a sign of good faith. But only if you answer all of my questions truthfully. Don't worry though, as I don't really have time to ask you all about the meaning of life."
The Lizardmen do not quite understand the last part, but they get the gist of it all. Not like they actually have the choice in the matter. If they refuse my offer, I will just slaughter them all.
"Are you aware of a Hive close by, and if so, show me where it is," I request.
The Lizardmen look at each other as if they are discussing something silently between themselves, all while I am right there and in their presence. "Yes… we are aware, as they have approached us a couple day ago. We cannot show you where they come from because they will kill us all."
"And I won't kill you all right now?" I snort. "If you tell me, I will make sure that problem goes away."