The Sword of Darkness
As Momon and Nabe continued their adventuring journey, they encountered a group of C-rank adventurers known as the Sword of Darkness. The group, consisting of Peter Mork, Lukrut Volve, Dyne Woodwonder, and Ninya, was a tight-knit team with a reputation for being dependable and honest.
Their paths crossed at the Adventurer's Guild in E-Rantel, where both groups were assigned to a joint mission: escorting a herbalist named Nfirea Bareare to a nearby village and protecting him from potential threats.
"We're honored to work with you, Momon-san!" Peter said, his friendly demeanor immediately putting others at ease. "Your strength is obvious just by looking at you."
Lukrut gave an exaggerated wink. "And traveling with such a beautiful lady as Nabe makes us the envy of every adventurer in the guild!"
Nabe's expression hardened, and a faint crackle of lightning formed around her fingers. Before she could unleash her frustration, Ainz raised a hand to calm her. "Focus on the mission," he said in a firm but neutral tone.
Dyne and Ninya exchanged amused glances, while Peter laughed nervously. "Forgive Lukrut; he's always like this. Let's focus on keeping Nfirea safe."
---
The Journey to Carne Village
The group set out for Carne Village, the same village Ainz had saved not long ago. The Sword of Darkness marveled at Momon's seemingly effortless ability to lead, though they found Nabe's standoffish attitude puzzling. Despite this, the journey was relatively peaceful, allowing the two groups to bond to some degree.
Nfirea, meanwhile, struck up a conversation with Ainz. "I'm grateful for your assistance, Momon-san. Protecting me is no small task, especially with rumors of increased undead activity in the area."
Ainz nodded. "The undead are a growing problem. Tell me, Nfirea, what is your connection to this region?"
"I'm an herbalist by trade," Nfirea explained, "but I also have a unique ability: I can use any type of magical potion, regardless of its origin or complexity. That's why some... unsavory individuals might be interested in me."
Ainz filed this information away, already suspecting that Nfirea's abilities would make him a target for more than just bandits.
---
Unbeknownst to the group, Clementine had already set her sights on Nfirea. Alongside Khajit of Zuranon, she plotted to capture him and use his unique abilities to fuel their nefarious plans.
From her hidden vantage point, Clementine watched the adventurers' convoy with a predatory grin. "So, that's the famous Momon," she whispered. "He looks strong, but I wonder if he's strong enough to face me."
Khajit, standing beside her, adjusted his dark robes. "Don't underestimate him, Clementine. We should focus on the mission. The boy is the key to powering my undead army."
Clementine smirked. "Oh, I'll get the boy. But if that Momon gets in my way, I won't mind breaking him first."
---
Upon arriving at Carne Village, Ainz noted the improvements made since his last visit. The villagers, still grateful for his intervention, welcomed the adventurers warmly. The Sword of Darkness marveled at the villagers' reverence for Momon, though they chalked it up to his imposing presence.
Nfirea quickly got to work gathering herbs while the adventurers stood guard. During a brief lull, Ninya approached Ainz.
"Momon-san," Ninya began hesitantly, "I've been curious about your strength. Are you... perhaps aiming to become a mithril or even an orichalcum-ranked adventurer?"
Ainz's response was measured. "I seek to grow stronger, not for recognition, but to better protect those who cannot protect themselves."
Ninya nodded, impressed by the sentiment. "That's admirable. Many adventurers are motivated by greed, but you seem different."
---
As night fell, the group made camp near the village. The Sword of Darkness took turns keeping watch, but their vigilance wasn't enough to prevent an ambush.
A swarm of undead, led by Khajit's subordinates, descended upon the camp. The adventurers quickly rallied, forming a defensive perimeter around Nfirea.
"Stay close to me!" Peter shouted, his sword flashing as he cut down an approaching ghoul.
Dyne unleashed a volley of arrows, while Lukrut moved with practiced precision, flanking the enemy. Ninya supported the group with healing magic, his spells keeping them in the fight.
Meanwhile, Ainz and Nabe stood at the forefront, their overwhelming power turning the tide. Ainz's swordsmanship, honed through years of experience in Yggdrasil, was unmatched, while Nabe's destructive spells incinerated the undead hordes.
Despite their efforts, the undead kept coming, their sheer numbers threatening to overwhelm the group.
---
From a distance, Valtherion observed the unfolding battle. Though tempted to intervene, he decided against it, knowing that Ainz could handle the situation. However, he subtly manipulated the battlefield, ensuring that the undead didn't target the villagers or breach the camp's defenses.
"Let's see how far you can go, Ainz," Valtherion muttered. "Prove to me that Nazarick's name will strike fear into all who oppose it."
---
As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, the battle came to an end. The undead were defeated, their remains scattered across the field. The Sword of Darkness, though exhausted, looked to Momon with newfound respect.
"You're incredible, Momon-san," Peter said, his voice filled with admiration. "We couldn't have survived without you."
Ainz inclined his head, his skeletal face hidden beneath his helmet. "We all fought together. This victory belongs to everyone."
Nfirea, shaken but unharmed, approached Ainz. "Thank you, Momon-san. I owe you my life."
Ainz placed a reassuring hand on the young man's shoulder. "Stay vigilant. This world is more dangerous than it seems."
---
From her hidden perch, Clementine watched the aftermath of the battle with a scowl. "So, he really is that strong," she muttered. "This might be more fun than I thought."
Khajit appeared beside her, his expression grim. "We'll need to adjust our plans. Momon is a wildcard we can't ignore."
Clementine's grin returned. "Oh, I'm looking forward to facing him. Let's see if he's ready for someone like me."
---
End of Chapter 13