Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King (佐々木と賢者と不死者の王) is a game event in Mass for the Dead that was released on March 15, 2024 to March 28, 2024.
Background[]
The around 40-year-old Sasaki and the reincarnated mage, Silver Sparrow Peeps, are going to another world as usual today.
However, at that moment, they were swallowed up by the "crack" that suddenly appeared and were transported to a different world full of monsters...
A unique different world fantasy unfolds in <Another Different World: Nazarick>!?[1]
Incident[]
Shizuka Futari meets Sasaki and Peeps at the warehouse she arranged for them so they can go to another world to make a deal. Shizuka seeing that she has delivered the promised items they requested, packed in the various wooden crates.
Her business partner states that everything is sufficient, which the psychic then leaves Sasaki and his pet to their head off to the other world, while she checks on the new shipment they brought in. Sasaki is glad that he can return to his side business in the other world and get back on track. Mostly he is thankful of Shizuka's aid, ironically remembering that the started off as enemies.
Since then, they had a reasonably good relationship, and even helped mediate between her and his workplace. Now that he has restock the former corporate salaryman wishes to bring back a few of the crates at the warehouse to bring. His magical buncho (Java sparrow) Peeps, lands on his shoulder, and states that they just need to go "over there" with the items in hand.
Peeps notices Sasaki's baggage and worries it may be a bit too much. Sasaki says it's fine as there is somewhere he wants to stop by and deliver something after his deal is done. He is thinking of Marc in the Republic of Lunge. Peeps comments on how loyal Sasaki is towards his customers, which the human chalks to being unable to rid himself of habits when he was a corporate slave, as it is not always easy to forget the kindness shown to him.
They are just about to transport themselves, when an earthquake hits the warehouse. A Crack appears right behind Shizuka who was examining some inventory in the warehouse. Before she knows it she is pulled in, disappearing through the anomaly. Sasaki and Peeps are confused at what the phenomena is before they too are engulfed by the Crack vanishing.
The location changes to the ruined Throne Room in the Great Tomb of Nazarick on the 10th Floor. Once again a summoning phenomenon is being conducted at the Crack in the chamber, in which Chaos Stones claimed from defeated Chaos Beasts are used to summon forces that could be obedient to the summoner or guests who bring various valuable information.
Today Momonga is conducting the study of the summoning, with Demiurge. The Overlord is curious about the many mysteries of the Crack, telling his subordinate his thoughts on the Sea of Possibilities. So far every experiment which they have done using the Crack, yielding beings who appeared, coming through the Sea of Possibilities. The beings they summon are vastly different each time they do the summoning. Hailing from diverse worlds different to the current one.
Demiurge confirms that its seems that the Sea of Possibilities is a place where various "possibilities" exist as well as "data" float about. But through their experiment existences and data can be extracted from it, though not in a fixed or consistent way. Momonga hypothesizes that the Sea of Possibilities functions as a "door" to other worlds. Because of this Momonga thinks that this may be why they and Nazarick were "transferred" to the New World, although he admits this is just an assumption as there is no clear evidence.
Momonga brushing his thoughts aside then begins their experiment, causing the Crack to activate, spewing out Sasaki and Peeps on the ground. As the human and bird get their bearing, Momonga studies the pair, particularly Sasaki, as the man is in a suit, and perhaps due to his aura finds something that seems incredibly familiar.
The duo on the other hand are stunned at their surroundings. Sasaki noticing that his avian friend has been silent since they came out of the Crack, determines that they are in a very dire situation. The former salaryman deduces that they are probably in another world, though it feels different from the one that they normally visit. Case in point the demon in the flashy suit and the robed skeleton in front of him, along with the lurking Death Knights and other walking skeletons.
Peeps speaks to Sasaki telepathically and concludes that are in some kind of stronghold belonging to the undead. The bird states that there are undead in his own world, but there were only a limited number of places where one could encounter them. Sasaki internally panics as even with his barrier magic, he is uncertain if it can withstand so many opponents. His familiar is not sure what to do either, but notes that the demon and skeleton are watching the situation, so they may have an opening to escape. Even so Sasaki doubts that escape is possible.
Momonga watching the human, comments that he seems to be talking to himself. Demiurge believes that he may be using telepathy. The two have their attention diverted from Sasaki and Peeps, giving the human an opening. He sprints forward, straight at a Death Knight who attempts to block his path, but Sasaki uses ice magic to immobilize it.
The Floor Guardians seeing this refuses the intruder to escape, and uses his skill to order Sasaki to prostate himself. The skill kicks in and Sasaki finds himself on his knees before the heteromorphs. Peeps flies off into the air unaffected by the command, a feat noted by Momonga making his see that it is not an ordinary bird. Momonga calms Demiurge down, as it is expected that their guest would react this way, given that he was suddenly thrown into their world. Though what was unexpected was the fact that the human could use magic.
Demiurge agrees that his decision to act was prudent, and finds the human to be interesting, wondering if he could be useful. Before they could go on any further, the Crack activates, releasing a horde of Chaos Beasts. Sasaki thinks that Demiurge immobilized him and summoned the monsters to attack him while he is helpless. and pleads to Peeps to escape.
Momonga comments that though the summoning experiment was conducted it should have left the Crack calm, however it looks like something irregular is going on. In regards to their guest, Demiurge is ordered to remove him mantra over Sasaki. The demon complies, allowing Sasaki to rise and stand. Momonga and Sasaki attempt to introduce themselves, but gets distracted when Momonga uses his magic to incinerate some Chaos Beasts. As more monsters pour into the Throne Room, Momonga states that they will continue their introductions later once the Chaos Beasts are dealt with and invites Sasaki to partake in the subjugation.
Sasaki and Peeps seeing that they have a common enemy agree. Together with Momonga, Sasaki uses his magic to destroy the waves of Chaos Beasts. As they fight, Sasaki finds the monsters attacking them to be unlike anything he has encountered in the usual other world he visits and wonders what kind of creatures they are.
When at last all the Chaos Beasts are defeated, Momonga thanks Sasaki for his help, which the human graciously returns the thanks. Momonga knowing the human to be still confused of where he is, introduces himself and tells him that he is in the Great Tomb of Nazarick. That being said the undead assures Sasaki he has no hostile intentions. The Overlord then gives Sasaki and Peeps a brief overview of the situation and how they came to be Nazarick via the summoning experiment.
This is surprising to Sasaki as this is not uncommon for Momonga to call forth other people from other worlds. Before speaking any further Sasaki hastily makes his own introductions, introducing his name, and how he was about to peddle some merchandise when he was whished away to Nazarick along with his pet Peeps. Momonga seeing Peeps talk, confirms to the undead that the bird is Sasaki's familiar.
Sasaki nervously apologies if it seemed like he was hiding this fact before, but it is understandable to Momonga given they have just met and he feels no hostility from Peeps. Afterall Momonga believes information as a weapon, and it would be cruel to ask for everything to be disclosed thus they have no choice but to be cautious when lies are told. So long as they have no ill will, Sasaki and Peeps are encouraged by Momonga to be honest with him.
Momonga then casts [Mana Essence] on Sasaki but interesting finds that the man and bird have no visible magic power, making him wonder if they are taking precautions. He decides to change the topic and ask how the human is so calm as it indicates that the man is used to situations like this. Sasaki neither agrees nor denies this, but asks Momonga a question of his own, like if there was anyone else who was summon to Nazarick presently. Momonga sadly states that only the man and bird came through the Crack.
This causes Sasaki to panic, which Momonga calms him down stating that there was a similar situation in the past where others were summoned to a different place from Nazarick. Now seeing that Shizuka is probably alone out in this new world, Sasaki asks the Overlord if they can leave the dungeon in order to find their friend. Momonga cannot grant this request as Sasaki leaving could leak out the secrets of Nazarick to the outside world. There is no guarantee that the human will maintain their confidentiality and Nazarick must take measures to prevent outsiders from discovering their home.
Moreover Momonga reasons that he also cannot allow Sasaki out, because he would definitely be pegged as a stranger, given his different style of clothes. And while the current situation outside is not strict against deviants, Momonga's forces are not at a stage where they can protect Sasaki and Peeps as being their associates.
What Momonga says is understandable to Sasaki as confidentiality is an obligation when conducting business and essential in building mutual trust. More so there is nothing to ensure that Sasaki to stay confidential like a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). However Momonga is not unsympathetic to Sasaki's plight as they have experience to similar situations. If the human can provide him with any benefits, Momonga will make maximum concessions to his requests.
Sasaki is curious to what benefits Momonga is entailing. While concessions are on the table, Sasaki suspects that the other side wants to gain a foothold. The standard approach is to present the advantages and disadvantages of each side and come to an agreement. Sasaki feels bad as he cannot show anything. Though he thinks perhaps he can offer Momonga a gift, using the stuff in his bags and backpack that he wanted to sell. But wonders if anyone here in this world will like them and worries he might be facing a dead end.
He changes his mind when Momonga asks Sasaki if he has any rare items and his interest in viewing them. Momonga having heard that the human was a peddler believed that this would be more practical in making a business arrangement. The interest in his products, leaving Sasaki, visibly smug and grinning, happy to showcase his merchandise to the undead and receive a good negotiable price. At the same time Sasaki believes he can use this opportunity to find a way to go outside the tomb.
Momonga seeing the expression of the human, notes how familiar he is with the face of a salesperson. Now that negotiations are complete Momonga will have Sasaki and Peeps wait in the Guest Room for their next "business meeting". Demiurge at Momonga's order then has the two guests follow him. After the trio leave, Momonga feeling a strong sense of déjà vu comments that Sasaki reminds him of his old self.
Shortly before Sasaki and Peeps were shown to the Guest Room in Nazarick, Shizuka is spat out of a Crack before it vanishes and into the middle of the ruined Carne Village. The psychic getting up wonders what is going on and where her two associates are. Out of place, the kimono dressed woman sees that she is the only one present and is confused as how she got there presently from the warehouse. All Shizuka can recollect is that Sasaki and Peeps were preparing to head to the fairy world and then there was a strange glowing portal that appeared on the floor. It felt very different from when the duo went to the fairy world so she thinks she might be somewhere else. And her friends may have experienced the same thing too, and taken elsewhere.
The girl walks around the village, covering the entirety and comes to the conclusion that the village has been abandoned. From the looks of things there was a major battle. Before she can ponder what else about her new surroundings, a group of Chaos Beasts appear. The psychic seeing the monsters then pushes her observations on the current world to deal with the current threat.[2]
After seeing the summoned Sasaki and Peeps to the Guest Room, Momonga and his retainers were discussing on what to do with them. Albedo is interested that the human wishes to conduct a business negotiation with them. For context, Momonga explains that their current guest appears to be familiar in doing business in a different world. Hence Momonga wishes to see what the human is offering given that he has goods so an event will be set up to showcase his wares.
Albedo and Demiurge react in silence to this news, slightly worrying Momonga that maybe he said the wrong thing. He then asks his subordinates if they have any concerns about how they should treat their guest?
Albedo has no issue, agreeing to carry out Momonga's decision, assured that it must have benefits that they cannot imagine. Likewise Demiurge is in accordance as the human does look to deal in merchandise, noting that he did not even have the slight hint of rebellious behavior. In fact Demiurge saw that the human was fawning over Momonga and maintained a humble attitude.
Even if humans know their place, the description of this human's behavior causes Albedo to call it a bit too. Demiurge agrees, but finds that the human's behavior to be praiseworthy as he realized Momonga's greatness so quickly. That being said the male demon believes humans are creatures that do unexpected things. And while appearing submissive on the surface, Demiurge wonders what the human is really thinking.
Momonga mentally thinks that is something to be worried about. From his impression, Sasaki is a type of guy who would bow his head as much as necessary. The undead would do the same if he was in the same situation. In that sense, it's better to be cautious. That in mind, Momonga announces that he will assign people who are friendly towards humans to observe Sasaki and Peeps. For now they will wait and see how things go in the "business negotiations" that follow before making a decision.
At the same time that Momonga and the others were discussing what to do with Sasaki, Sasaki is having a conversation of his own with Peeps in the Guest Room provided by their host. The human peddler finds that the world they are in is vastly different from Peeps' world. Though the bird thinks it's not to dissimilar. The bird's confidence awes Sasaki, like when he revealed his true personality to Momonga without any fear. In regards to their situation, Sasaki feels that they are in a tight spot, and that their host is intelligent despite looking otherwise, so Sasaki believes that they won't be killed out of the blue.
On that Peeps isn't sure as their fate could depend on the negotiations. The pressure hits Sasaki who laments he is not allowed to leave, terrified and wanting to go home. There is another pressing item, which Peeps identifies as to the whereabouts of Shizuka, who he guesses is somewhere in this world. And while the girl is dangerous, Peeps is grateful to her for the various conveniences she offered, noting that it would be bad to discard her.
Sasaki agrees as he wants to get not just him and Peeps home, but also Shizuka as soon as possible. That said, the human can't think of a way back home. He wonders if he should use spatial magic like he always used when going to Peeps world, though is unsure if it will work.
Peeps replies that according to Momonga, in this world, teleportation magic or what they call spatial magic, doesn't work well and the location of the destination changes.
The buncho doesn’t discount that this may be disinformation to prevent them from escaping, but when the bird thinks about what would happen if they tried traveling between worlds and their current location "shifted," he don't think it's something they should try lightly.
That being said Peeps wonders if there is another way to return home. He recalls that the undead said that in their summoning experiment, they made the "Chaos Stones" which react to the "Crack" in the hall they appeared in.
By doing so, they usually invite obedient beings who can be used as fighting forces, or in rare cases, exceptions like them... beings who seem to be inhabitants of another world. In other words, this summoning may be an act of twisting space to create something like an "entrance" to another world. If this "entrance" is not a one-way street.
Sasaki is quick to realize what Peeps is inferring, if he opened the "entrance" again, can they return to the other world.
Peeps thinks it's possible. Although, it seems their hosts don't fully understand the principles of summoning, so it is an uncertain method. They may have to consider this further whether this will be successful or not. In order to try to open the "entrance", Peeps recommends that they should first obtain a Chaos Stone that will react to the Cracks.
Sasaki recalls that a "Chaos Stone" could be obtained from the monster they fought- the "Chaos Beasts." From what Sasaki had felt earlier, it didn't seem like the monsters was an opponent that they couldn't fight, but he heard that there were still many unknowns about it, so he wishes there was a way to avoid fighting such creatures.
He finds the whole situation kind of like an RPG. Where one complete quests or something and get rewards. Sasaki believes he has a template on what to negotiate in their upcoming deal if it goes through, like a share of the stones.
Sasaki would certainly like it if they could get stones instead of money. But since they can't go outside, he doesn’t know if they will need this world's currency.
All in all whether or not they can return safely from this den of monsters depends on Sasaki. This worries Sasaki when he hears this from his familiar, as from the bird’s point of view he can't go home safely after all. Despite talking to the dangerous looking Momonga and extruding a calm attitude Peeps is in a dangerous situation just as he is.
This raises the bar of Sasaki view of Peeps and he asks the bird his support in looking for Shizuka. And even though the other party is an undead person, he seems like someone who can understand, so Sasaki will give it a try.
A knock is received at the Guest Room door. Yuri Alpha enters and greets the pair as a member of the combat maids. While her title is a bit confusing, Sasaki warmly returns her greetings.
The maid informs Sasaki that Momonga is ready to begin the business negotiations, so she will guide him to the meeting. Sasaki understands and asks for Yuri’s assistance in gathering his merchandise. They collect the items and the Pleiades maid guides the human and bird to the Round Table Room where Momonga is waiting.
Sasaki is initially distracted by the grandeur of the Round Table Room, but is stunned by the other occupants present: Albedo, Demiurge, Aura, Mare, Shalltear, Sebas and Pestonya. Looking at the array of people, Sasaki wonders to himself if any of them are even human. Putting on a polite face, Sasaki thanks Momonga for allocating his time for the event. Momonga then bids Sasaki to show him and his people what he deals in.
Sasaki gives them a quick overview. He brought a complete set of his current items. He then carefully pulls the "products" out of his shoulder bag and hands them to Yuri, who deftly arranges them on the table based on Sasaki's order. Despite the odd business meeting, seeing the entourage behind Momonga, Sasaki is confident that the exchange will almost be the same as in his previous world. What is laid out are chocolate, sugar, copy paper and walkie-talkies... though for the last time, Sasaki honestly doesn't know how much demand there is among the demons present.
The spread is the usual goods he sells in other world, and while he did not expect to do business in a situation like this one, the business man will have to make do with some sales talk. Inwardly cringing, Sasaki began to explain the products before Momonga and his people. The undead reacts positively to all the items as they are not readily available here in this world.
Momonga is particularly interested in the chocolate. This is due to the Sorcerer Kingdom dealing in chocolate products as trade goods, so it's not a waste to have a stockpile of raw materials. And while he has already confirmed that he can make chocolate in the Cauldron of the Daghdha, it costs a certain amount of gold coins. If he can buy the actual thing, then he will do do. And the paper, Sasaki has, Momonga recognizes it to be "noble paper" and appears to be of equal or better quality than the high quality paper that can be created with the magic of the New World. He has plans of course to to use it on a scroll for higher magic, but that's up to experimentation.
The undead studies the products and deduces that Sasaki is from a world that is closer to the real world he had originally come from. Momonga then makes up his mind to buy all the items from the chocolate and sugar.
This elevates Sasaki, who thanks his new patron. Therefore, the salesman would appreciate it if Momonga could tell him how much he is willing to pay using "Chaos Stones" instead of the currency of the current world. The request comes as a surprise from Momonga. Sasaki explains that according to what Momonga told him and Peeps earlier, Chaos Stones are used in summoning experiments. Thus he thought it might be useful for them to return to their original world.
Momonga believes that it is a reasonable idea. With the undead considering the idea, Sasaki leaves the exchange rate, etc. to Momonga at this time and until them will await his response. Momonga is glad to have come to an understand and tells his guest that they should try to keep both sides out of trouble. Sasaki with a smug smile agrees bowing politely. The sight of which, causes Albedo who was watching the exchange to find creepy though keeps this to herself.
Sasaki asks Momonga is he prefers chocolate over all the other products. Momonga does not as he is undead, though many of his subordinates do enjoy the taste. This elicits another smug smile from the human, servilely calling Momonga to be very considerate of his subordinates worthy of study.
Momonga accepts the praise, recognizing Sasaki's attitude and demeanor as common sales talk, though finds it kind of embarrassing to be called "subordinate-oriented" to his face. Sasaki is glad that the deal has gone well, and also learned something more about his host, causing the human to reconsider judging by appearances after all.
Elsewhere in the ruins of Carne Village, Shizuka defeats the Chaos Beasts that were assailing her. The psychic muses that none of the creatures are familiar and more so finds odd glowing gemstones after she killed them. From the color of the stones, the psychic feels like she seem it from somewhere, Though she has no idea what they are, Shizuka decides to collect them, thinking that they will be useful later on. The girl then looks around the village, but finding nothing then heads to the nearby forest.
A few hours after Shizuka entered the Great Forest of Tob, Shizuka still has no idea where she is. Taking in the sweet smelling scent of the forest, the girl wonders if she came here via something called "otherworldly transfer." She would like to get out of the woods once but sees that is not possible as she spots no houses. But then, thinks that she might also encounter a monster, or some strange beast-like creature. That in mind Shizuka wonders if this is the fairy world that Sasaki visits. Her thoughts however are broken when her stomach growls making her turn her attention on finding food.[3]
After the "business meeting," Sasaki was in Momonga's office talking where Momonga tells Sasaki that he really appreciated him for introducing such wonderful products. This pleases Sasaki as he was afraid Momonga would not have any interest. Now that Sasaki has provided Nazarick with something, Momonga would like to to discuss the search for his friend he mentioned earlier and the collection of Chaos Stones that he needs to return home.
Momonga promises his cooperation on this. Though there is just one problem. He warns Sasaki, that his subordinates are not very tolerant of the human race. Thus he feels he must tell Sasaki first that it will be difficult for him to accept all of his requests. Nazarick has to focus on defense for certain reasons, so they try to keep their information out from the open as much as possible.
Sasaki asks if this pertains to why he cannot go out alone. It is and Momonga explains that the Cracks are also part of the reason as they adversely affect transfer magic causing it not to function satisfactorily. Momonga bows his head in apology to Sasaki, as under such circumstances, he must avoid at all costs anything that might endanger his. Sasaki asks the undead to raise his head, as he understands his desire to protect those who work in Nazarick.
Momonga rises, and offers a compromise. Since Sasaki is in need of Chaos Stones, he would like him to stay in the dungeon for a while and take on the task of defeating the Chaos Beasts. Normally, Nazarick would collect them for their summoning experiments, but as for the ones Sasaki defeats, he can keep them for himself. This proves to be perfect for Sasaki who accepts and thanks the undead.
Momonga tells Sasaki that there is no need as he is fulfilling his role as a host and protector. At the very least, he promises to do everything he can to ensure that Sasaki has no inconvenience during his stay which Sasaki thanks again, reinforcing the human's belief that the people who work for Momonga are very happy.
Albedo watching the discussion asks if that praise is part of his sales talk? Sasaki is taken aback as while it's only been a few hours, he admits that he doesn't understand everything about Momonga, but he thinks that he knows that Momonga thinks a lot for his people. Bosses like that are rare, to say the least, even in his world. He thinks they are appreciated from the standpoint of those who work under them. Momonga thinking about what Sasaki said about his subordinates "happiness", really much hopes so, as far as he is concerned, he just wishes everyone would take a little more time off. This is something that Sasaki believes is appropriate.
Back on topic to Sasaki's missing friend, he explains that her name is Shizuka. Then goes on to tell how they first met as enemies and entered the same "workplace". After that, they have been using magic to keep her under control. He also explains that they are now working together mainly for business purposes.
Momonga finds the story interesting in that the pair are not exactly on friendly terms at the moment. Sasaki sadly confirms this to be true. But adds that he doesn't think she will harm him in the least, but honestly doesn't know about any others so asks Momonga and his people to be careful.
In the hallway Sasaki and Peeps are being shown back to their room by a general maid. While being guide, Sasaki can only think how relieved that they finally met someone "normal" in the dungeon. A normal looking maid, unlike the gauntlet wearing Yuri.
They reach the Guest Room, and the general maid opens the door to allow the guests to enter. Before she departs, Sasaki asks if she could bring food over to the room, composed of meat dishes for humans if possible, promising to compensate for the meals. The maid professionally replies that she has been asked by her lord to entertain the guests, so there is no need for a fee. And that she will bring them mainly meat dishes.
After Sasaki thanks her, she leaves, allow the former to breath a sigh of relief. Peeps flies from Sasaki's shoulder to a table, comments that the maid is far from being a normal human, however does not think she is a demon either. Sasaki could see that as well, as while the maid was polite, she was very cold. Peeps changes the dour subject by noting that Sasaki ordered meat dishes which they can look forward to. Sasaki laughs as he wanted to treat themselves, preferable meat not from demons.
However it looks like it's only Momonga and Yuri are the only ones who respond in a friendly manner here in Nazarick. Still Sasaki is really thankful that the business meeting went well and they have a means to get their immediate lodging and the Chaos Stones, but he is getting kind of worried that he is not going to get along with the people here in the dungeon.
After sending Sasaki back down to the Guest Room, Momonga called Albedo, Demiurge, and Aura. Demiurge confesses that Sasaki is very interesting in many ways. Albedo is disgusted on why her fellow demon find such a human with a creepy smile so so interesting? In reference to Sasaki's smile, Momonga finds Albedo calling it creepy to be curious. Though Aura silently finds Albedo's criticism ironic, considering she sometimes wears a smile like that sometimes.
Demiurge states that Sasaki is a peddler from another world, and his wares are things one wouldn't see in this world. One of the things that make Sasaki most interesting is that he is from a world where such items are freely available. Secondly, as Momonga pointed out earlier, that person's magic and physical strength are not measured even by [Mana Essence] of [Life Essence]. He doesn't know if the human is doing something about it, or if he is just putting under a different set of laws than they are. It is unknown what rank of tier magic he can use, but in terms of total quantity alone, Sasaki is possibly as good as them.
Momonga affirms that Sasaki is all these things, and that he can handle various kinds of magic. Demiurge also points out that there have been many cases of people coming to this world through the Cracks. Unfortunately, at this point, there is no way to freely travel to and from the "other side," and they have to rely on "chance," so to speak. It remains to be seen if knowing how to do this will benefit Nazarick. It is also true that the more choices they have, the better.
At present, their guests may be a hint, and even if he is not, he may have other knowledge and skills that could be useful. Albedo admits that what the peddler said was true; that the Chaos Stone might be the key to return to his world, so he has a point. If so, Demiurge supposes their goal here should be, as always, to tame their guests well.
Momonga with less sinister intentions feels that if they can get them to trust them, it will be easier to extract useful information from them. They also need to find out how good in magic Sasaki is. They'll see how good he is at that when he takes down the Chaos Beasts. And then there is about that "friend" of his. Demiurge reports that the information has already shared this information with those who are outside and were told to report any matches immediately. Aura plans plans to go to the Great Forest of Tob, to let Hamsuke and the others know.
At the same time that Sasaki and his team were conducting business negotiations in the Great Tomb of Nazarick—-Shizuka manages to kill three wolves harassing her when she was gathering food to survive in the forest.
Now that she has picked a bunch of nuts to eat, she heads back to her camp before sundown. At the camp she breaks a couple of branches and gathers some leaves to build a fire. By the fire, the psychic settles in, eating her nuts, finding them to be tasty and just as sweet from their smell, thankful that they are not poisonous. After the meal, she lays down on her hastily prepared bed. The next morning birds are chirping and Shizuka wakes up with a frown, having something in the woods.[4]
A day after the business meeting, inside the Great Tomb of Nazarick, in the 6th Floor Sasaki, Peeps, and Momonga were found to be strolling through the lush forest. Sasaki enjoys the natural setting of chirping birds, gentle sunlight and exquisite blue skies, still unable to believe that the setting is underground.
Momonga had arranged this meet up. Despite it being sudden. Sasaki doesn't mind as he was thinking of how to repay Momonga for his kindness. The undead tells Sasaki and Peeps that he sent one of his subjects out to look for that someone they requested. For today, Momonga is in need of a security detail and thus would like the two to help with that.
Sasaki wonders about this security detail job, and if that there will be fighting. Their host explains that they will be dealing with the "Chaos Beast" that they fought yesterday. Such fights are done on a daily basis, and he will be joining his subjects later, so it's unlikely they'll be in any danger. Above all, this time the request comes from them. The reward for this task are "Chaos Stones" dropped from the defeated Chaos Beasts,
The task is accepted by Sasaki, eager to earn the Chaos Stones. Momonga adds that he is also interested in his magic. And is hoping this will be an opportunity to showcase it, which Sasaki does not mind in showing.
Privately to Peeps via their mental connection, Sasaki believes it is fortunate that they can earn their keep, with just a little fighting so they cannot afford to be too greedy. So far the bird finds their stay in Nazarick to be good, given then "one night stay, one meal" rule which he found to better than anything else.
Sasaki’s silence is noticed by Momonga who inquires if everything is alright. The human answers that he was marveling the grandeur of the floor, still scarcely believing it to be underground. His admiration for the floor is appreciated by Momonga, who boasts that the landscape was created by his colleagues.
Sasaki and Peeps converse mentally if what they think of the dungeon with the former wondering if the other floors are just as intricate. Peeps sees Momonga to be quite an outstanding man. But notes that not all his subjects are the same. If they make them angry, it may be difficult to escape. Thus warns Sasaki to tread carefully.
Mare arrives to greet the group. The Floor Guardian is introduced to Sasaki and Peeps as the one in charge of the 6th Floor. Sasaki greets Mare and upon seeing “her” ears correctly deduces the individual is an elf.
Momonga then asks about the Crack, where Mare reports that there was nothing unusual. But the time for it to start glowing is approaching. Momonga is slightly disappointed as he had hoped that there would be a possibility of another irregularity, but it looks like his fears are unfounded.
Mare then brings them to Crack on 6th Floor. The Crack is commented by Sasaki to be strange and eerie. Momonga explains that the phenomena is the same thing from the other day when he and his pet showed up. That they are called Cracks and regarded as abominations, but so far Nazarick has not found a way to plug them up yet.
Sasaki asks if Momonga conducts experiments on the Cracks to determine how. Momonga confirms that they do, before the rack begins to glow signaling that Chaos Beasts will be emerging.
The Chaos Beasts appear, their numbers a tad bit more than Sasaki expected. Momonga assured him that it is just a normal occurrence. He then directs Sasaki, to take care of the interception while he and Mare will provide support.
In the Great Forest of Topu, shortly before Sasaki was brought to the 6th Floor. Shizuka is walking through the dense foliage, aware that she is being watched and calls out for them to show themselves if they are not going to attack her.
Hamsuke and Kyuko soon appear from the Forest before the psychic. Shizuka allows the pair to hear what the two want from her. Hamsuke believes that is their line, and demands to know why Shizuka is in the forest. The girl responds stating tambat she has been wandering the woods for awhile looking for an exit and asks if they live here.
The hamster and fox do not respond, though whisper among themselves of what to do as Aura had told them to stay of affairs that did not involve them and to only gather information. Furthermore the human is very suspicious guy, still they have a mission to complete. Their intruder replies that all she needs is to know the way out of the forest.
Hamsuke states that they cannot ignore her intrusion given that she and Kyuko have been entrusted by their liege with the forest. To that end Hamsuke requests that Shizuka come with them. On Shizuka’s part, she finds the two monsters to be a curious bunch, but does not think to be a bad idea to go along with them and listen to what they have to say and learn something.
Later after Shizuka was brought deep into the forest and explained the situation to Hamske and Kyuko, the two express surprise and disbelief at their visitor’s story. Shizuka can’t blame them as any sane person would not understand the story of getting caught in a strange light and finding themselves in a strange place.
Kyuko after some consideration believes it would be wise to tell Aura about their strange visitor. Although Hamsuke is not sure about Shizuka as she could be dangerous and being harm to Nazarick. They don’t wait long as while they are debating, Aura literally comes running on a beast mount towards them.
Shizuka seeing the new arrival asks the hamster and fox if they know her. Hamsuke explains that the dark elf is Aura and their superior. Aura immediately recognizes Futari Shizuka based on the description she was told. Shizuka raises a brow when Aura knows her identity.
After introducing themselves, Aura was asked Shizuka calmly on what was going on, and was explained what had happened since Sasaki and Peeps were sent to Nazarick. The Floor Guardians states that she will be heading back to Nazarick to deliver the news of Shizuka’s whereabouts to Sasaki and Momonga. Futari Sizuka, is then asked by Aura to remain in the forest for awhile longer. The dark elf is bid farewell by her two subordinates as she rides away on her mount.[5]
Back on the 6th Floor of Nazarick, Sasaki finishes clearing up the Chaos Beasts. Momonga and Mare who had been watching the display, applaud the use of Sasaki's unique magic. The Chaos Stone that were left behind by the Chaos Beasts that Sasaki killed are claimed by him. Momonga confesses that it is a rarity in this world to find an environment like here where one can control the Crack and hunt Chaos Beasts in relative safety. Thus Momonga thinks that the stones are a fair rate for the goods he bought from Sasaki.
Back in the Guest Room, Sasaki is is ecstatic of the loot he brought. Peeps looking over the pile of Chaos Stones, muses that he heard the summoning experiment uses a reasonably large size Chaos Stone, and the ones obtained are noticeably smaller than the size offered as a reference. Though thinks if Sasaki doesn't succeed the first time, he might as well have a few more.
Sasaki knows this as he was told that once a certain number of the Chaos Beasts from the Crack are defeated, they won't appear for a while. From his estimate, Peeps thinks that Sasaki may need to fight in one more subjugation to get the proper amount of stones. However, if there are no new beasts coming out of Crack in the foreseeable future, it's going to be a long time before they're back in their world.
Sasaki hopes that in the meantime they can find Shizuka by then. Peeps agrees and then notes that Momonga seems to like Sasaki a lot and predicts he may summon Sasaki in the near future. Sasaki supposes as the fight earlier made him want to know more about his magic. Though wonders if that is alright? The bird is confident that they will be safe as long as Sasaki are in their good graces. So he suggests that Sasaki entertain Momonga and keep him happy.
Yuri soon knocks on the door, and states that Momonga wishes to see him. The human and bird are guided to the Amphitheater so that Sasaki could explain about the various magics he could wield to Momonga and Mare.
Sasaki demonstrates that the magic he use can be invoked with the right spell and enough imagery by showing them lightning magic. The explanation is a bit broad but is exactly what Peeps told him about the spells and images, but Sasaki is worried it may not be enough for Momonga. The idea of chanting and imagery, seem perplexing to Momonga who asks if there are any other requirements.
Sasaki says that there is, in that one needs to have enough magic power to do the magic. He then notes to Momonga about the magic he wields, in that is the magic of this world, believing that such a system should be fine for the undead, given that the latter did not lack magical power.
Momonga still wants to try casting a spell from Sasaki's version of magic and asks him to teach him. Sasaki complies and instructs him on a spell to light a small flame on a fingertip, but nothing happens when Momonga casts it. The undead wonders if he did anything wrong, but Sasaki states that there was nothing wrong.
Momonga wonders what it could be as the spell had no error and he used imagery and has the ability to use fire magic so he should not be lacking. Neither does it look like Sasaki was misleading him, as he could cast the spell easily. Thus he assumes that he can't use the same magic like a guest from another world. Though he doesn't know if there's a reason for this, like the way magic works is fundamentally completely different or something. .
Sasaki watching the undead think, silently worries if Momonga will call him a liar and be angry. To his shock, Momonga apologizes to the human as he was merely thinking. Momonga then moves unto another experiment, this time with a Magic Scroll. The undead explains that it is an item that contains relatively simple magic that can be created with magic in advance, allowing the magic to be used only once. If the magic contained in the scroll is a magic that can be learned by the user's profession, the user can use it even if he or she has not learned it.
The spell contained in the scroll is [Magic Arrow] and he gives it to Sasaki to use. Sasaki takes it though is unsure how to use it, even asking if he needs to cut it. Nothing further happens, leaving Momonga to conclude that just as Momonga can't exercise Sasaki's magic, he can't use the magic of his world. But it could be different if Sasaki could get a magic job class. And silently admits that there are spells that even he can't cast, like 0 tier magic. Mare reports to Momonga that Aura has returned to the Nazarick. Momonga tells Mare to relay to Aura to meet him in the Round Table Room. After Mare leaves, Momonga tells Sasaki to retire to his room to get some rest, promising that they will talk again.
At the Round Table Room, Momonga learns from Aura that she found Shizuka in the Tob Forest and is currently with Hamsuke and Kyuko. Since the girl is still there, Aura asks if she should bring her back. Momonga wants to hold off on the order, as this person is someone Sasaki told them to be cautious of. Just in case that they have the right person, Momonga wants to bring Sasaki to this Shizuka to confirm her face.
At the Tob Forest, Hamsuke is seen talking with Shizuka, who told her that she is one of their master's guests. Unfortunately Hamsuke and Kyuko cannot provide the psychic much about Nazarick, as they are stationed in the forest to perform their duties. The two find it hard to believe that Shizuka is from another world. Kyuko notes that Shizuka's costume and appearance are similar to those worn by the villagers she once lived with. Shizuka find sthis tidbit to be interesting and wonders if there are other villages in the fairy world.[6]
A beast is seen being ridden outside Nazarick by Aura with Sasaki and Peeps as passengers. Some time before the ride, at the Round Table Room, Sasaki, Peeps and Momonga learned from that she found someone that looks like Futari Shizuka. It turns out she was transported to the vicinity of the Great Forest of Tob, which is located near the dungeon, and wandered around for a while. And that the ones under Aura in charge of the forest found her. Aura can attest that that human appears fine.
Sasaki is grateful at the news and asks Momonga if he could go to the forest even though it would be against Momonga’s directive on him leaving the premises. The human wants to venture out due to his concern with Shizuka. Momonga agreed to Sasaki’s request as it would be best for him to affirm the identity of the girl before bringing her to Nazarick.
When the trio reach edge of the forest, the disembark from the mount. Aura then guides her passengers into the forest where they come across Shizuka and Aura’s subordinates. The psychic complains Sasaki is late, though the former salary worker defends himself by saying he asked people to help find her.
Hamsuke greets Sasaki when seeing him and glad Shizuka has reunited with her friend. It was a stroke of luck that the girl managed to meet some of Momonga's people while traveling in this new world, and is surprises Sasaki even more that she was able to survive in such a thick forest. Shizuka feels that her survival was no big deal, given her skills. Adding that she was fortunate for have found a meal of sweet-smelling nuts while camping in the forest.
Aura perks at the mention of the nuts. Kyuko identifies that Shizuka found the Longevity Nuts which is good as it means that the tree that bore them has grown more. Hamsuke readies her claws as she states that they need to hurry to the east end of the forest, which Aura agrees as they will have to take "it" down.
Shizuka expresses confusion on what they are talking about, and Aura then tells her that she will know more when the get to the east side of the forest. Briefly saying that there's a dangerous that feeds on the nuts she ate. Since the two are here, the dark elf asks for their help in taking it down.
Later the group, Shizuka, Sasaki, and Aura are seen fighting a Super Giant Sanitary Slime, eventually slaying it with their combine skills whilst Kyuko and Hamsuke watch from the sides. Once it is dead, Aura concedes that the two humans are quite impressive. For Shizuka she finds it interesting that there were demons that became stronger by eating the nut. Even so she is glad to be of service, as is Sasaki. Aura then declares that it is time to return back to Nazarick so she can give her report.
After returning to Nazarick and reporting to Momonga, Sasaki went back to the Guest Room and met with the Shizuka to go over their situations. The two compare each other's stories of how they appeared in the New World. Shizuka adds how scared she was of being alone in the forest, but Sasaki and Peeps can see that it's a lie.
The girl noticing Sasaki's suspicious eyes demands to know what's with that look, giving him a stink face. The older man manages to change the subject of the conversation, of how she met Momonga's subordinates and later met Aura who recognized Shizuka and brought him to her. Once its done, Shizuka wants to hear what Sasaki has been up to, leading him to explain to her calmly on what had happened since their "transition".
Sasaki ends his story that how he learned that they need something called a Chaos Stone to return home. Shizuka who has no clue of what a Chaos Stone is, prompts Sasaki to describe it as a purplish, transparent, crystal-like stone that can be found in the body of a kind of demon called a Chaos Beast, and when its defeated the stone drops from its body.
Shizuka remember her encounter with the creatures in the ruined village then takes out the Chaos Stone she recovered. Sasaki is over joyous as with this size and quantity of this stone, combined with what he has collected, it now seems possible to return home. He wants to hurry to Momonga to give him the Chaos Stones to conduct the summoning experiment again.
Shizuka though wants to hold off on that as it is late and she has been in the woods all day and is exhausted. That being said, Shizuka states it was good to see what's going on in the fairy world where Sasaki and Peeps guys go. Sasaki nervously agrees that resting would be a good idea and allows Shizuka to rest, promising that they will pick off after they left tomorrow.
Sasaki to himself realizes that a lot has been going on, not only on the 6th Floor but outside Nazarick, so much so he did not realize the fatigue. Now that he has a moment to process, he notices Shisuka is under the misunderstanding that the world they are currently in is the other world he and Peeps usually come and go from, which could be a bit of a problem.
The next morning, having been summoned by Momonga, both Sasaki and Peeps are at the Round Table Room. While wondering what the summons is for, Sasaki believes it is strange that Futari Shizuka was not also summoned. Momonga arrives and thanks the two for meeting him. Sasaki explains that Shizuka is still sleeping at the Guest Room.
However, he adds that it seems that she also obtained the Chaos Stones outside asks if they use the entire collection would it be possible to return to their world. Momonga seeing that Sasaki is being direct, is glad that they are on this topic as it is also the reason why he called the human to Sasaki's bewilderment.
Momonga then asks Sasaki if he is from a place called "Japan". There is evident shock on Sasaki's face. To Momonga it was not that hard to ascertain where Sasaki was from, from the way he was dressed, the way he was acting, and the goods he was peddling. And given the man's silence, it is taken as an affirmation. A second question is asked, on whether Sasaki is familiar with the word "arcology"?
The term means nothing Sasaki. Momonga detects no lie, and deduces since the human does not know about arcology, then he must have come from another era, perhaps in the past. Of course it may not be the very world Momonga was from and might be another world that is very similar, a parallel world. He tells Sasaki none of this of course and apologies to Sasaki for asking such an impolite question.
Sasaki is not offended, but guesses he should have expected this as Momonga, has welcomed guests from other parts of the world in the past, so the world is probably more diverse than he thought. Additionally Sasaki does not wish any harm to Momonga or the people of Nazarick and only wishes to return to his world.
When he spoke to Shizuka last night, he was going to tell her that he would be returning to their world. There is just one thing, he needs a favor regarding Futari Shizuka, who Momonga helped find yesterday.
Momonga is brought up to speed of how Shizuka thinks that this world is the one Sasaki regularly conducts business. Since Shizuka never been to the other world, she assumed that this one is that. Due to this Sasaki is having a lot of trouble thinking about the future. The situation is understandable, but Momonga has something to offer, as if Sasaki wants he could erase Shizuka's memories.
Sasaki is elated that Momonga can do something like that. There is a catch however, as Momonga explains such a technique consumes a lot of magic power. But more importantly Momonga wants to know what Sasaki will pay for such a service. At this point Sasaki is unsure if he can afford it, though hopes maybe he can work to pay off the debt or work something out.
However Momonga already has eyes on what Sasaki could trade for wiping Shizuka's memories, the bird on his shoulder. To the stunned Sasaki, Momonga elaborates his desire to possess Peeps. He has long seen through the guise of Sasaki's pet bird, which is not really just a bird as it also seem to possess a lot of magical power.
Sasaki knows Momonga is bluff that he saw Peeps magical power, as his and the bird's power should be obscured. And he deduces that Momonga figured out Peeps was special when he was not affected by Demiurge's spell. Regardless Momonga can see that Peeps is rare and valuable, and that would be enough to compensate him for his magic. Although the decision rests with Sasaki.
In the face of this deal, Sasaki collapses on his knees, admitting that the bird is his familiar but has also been with him for some time and is his dear friend. Momonga reacts to nothing from this plea, and Sasaki panics on what to do and pleads to Momonga that he will do anything but give up Peeps. Both Momonga and Sasaki enter a tense silence, before Peeps finally speaks saying he has seen enough of how far Momonga is willing to corner his owner.
Sasaki then files off Sasaki's shoulder and unto the table in the room and faces Momonga. The bird humbly apologizes for speaking out against the master of Nazarick but he would like him to listen first. Peeps clarifies that he has no intention of leaving this man, but perhaps he can make him a proposal.[7]
Aftermath[]
Afterwards in the Throne Room, Demiurge reports to Momonga that they are ready for the summoning experiment and that the Crack will soon activate. Momonga thanks his servant and then asks Sasaki and Peeps if they are ready. The two are prepared for the timing. Momonga advises them that the Chaos Beasts will appear soon, but it is nothing they cannot handle.
Peeps knows the plan, when the chaos beast appears from the Crack, there will be an opening for him to bring the Chaos Stone close to it and use his spatial magic on it. Sasaki thanks Momonga for all his help in getting them home and bows to the undead.
Momonga believes that it's too early to thank him. While he has seen similar cases, he doesn't know if this will be successful yet. Even so Momonga did what Sasaki asked. To himself Momonga, did not say anything when Sasaki pleaded him to not trade away Peeps, only because he could understand the feeling of not wanting to sacrifice one's "friends."
In any case he tells Sasaki that the chocolate and sweet treats him gave him were priceless, so he would like Sasaki to think of this return home as a return gift to him. Shizuk watching the progress of their way home tells Momonga that while is was short but interesting experience he will never get bored with these guys like Sasaki and Peeps. As she didn't realize that the fairy world was more exciting than she had expected. If she ever get the chance again, she'll ask them to bring her back.
On that note, Momonga gestures Mare to to cast magic on Shizuka, who then collapses on the ground. Leaving Mare, Demiurge, and the others to watch over the Crack, Momonga began the task of manipulating the memories of the sleeping Shizuka through [Control Amnesia].
Momonga complains that even though the range of activities after coming to this world was narrower than Sasaki's, manipulating the memories of several days should consume a lot of magic power. However with Peeps flying above him providing him a boost it is manageable.
It is learned that back in the Round Table, Peeps had offered Momonga a way to supply him the necessary magical power for the erasure of memories. Momonga is curious if Peeps can follow through on such power, though the bird finds the question silly as such a skill is trivial to him. But concedes that he has no skill of magic on memory manipulation that Momonga has. But with Peeps magic supplying the magic, it's not a bad deal for Momonga. Furthermore, Peeps states that Momonga has "seen" the magical power he possesses.
In the present, Momonga looks back on the conversation with Peeps and sees that the bird knew he was bluffing he said he could he their levels of magic. It makes him ponder how much of a schemer that bird really is.
Sasaki watches the process between Peeps and Momonga, hoping that the exchange or magic power will not be a burden to his pet. Momonga finishes his spell, managing to pinpoint and erase Shizuka's memories of what happened in the Great Forest of Tob, and in Nazarick. At any rate, Momonga thinks that it should be enough to make her feel that she just wandered into a strange place.
Momonga studies his magic provider, noting that the bird is quite powerful as even after spending so much the creature still has power to spare. Since they are going to be using magic soon, Sasaki asks Peeps if he is up for the next step. Peeps is ready and Sasaki then delivers his thanks to Momonga for his help, and will take care of the rest by calling the rest of what Shizuka remembers a dream and fool around with it there.
For the Chaos Beasts, Momonga promises to handle them as the Crack starts to glow. Leaving Momonga and the others to deal with the new Chaos Beasts emerging from the Crack, Sasaki and Peeps with Futaru Shizuka, who is still asleep, bring the Chaos Stone to the anomaly. The stone soon glows in catalyst with the Crack, and the trio head through the portal, vanishing.
The trio having left, leaves Momonga pondering on the process of the summoning. That by bringing the Chaos Stone close to the activated Crack and activating transfer magic at the timing to intentional destabilize the space. From what Peeps shared with him on his views of the "summoning experiment" it might be an act of using the "Sea of Possibilities" to open a "gateway to another world."
Demiurge finishes his master's word that in other words, this time they did the opposite, so to speak, of their summoning experiment. Mare adds that even though Momonga should have secured the magical power to use his memory manipulation, the fact that Peeps activated such teleportation magic right after that is quite incredible. Momonga admits that it was indeed, seeing that the bird possessed magical power beyond their imagination. But despite his prowess, it seems certain that he was not hostile toward them.
Demiurge is in awe that Momonga knew all this, in that hee knew that the visitors were capable and not hostile. This leaves both demon and elf in admiration to Momonga, much to his shame. Momonga couldn't see the amount of magic power they had, and he almost felt closer to them, rather than hostile to them. And yet, even if it was just to erase the main memories of her stay, how could Peeps bribe such a small body to do so? And even then Momonga still couldn't see the amount of magic, but it must have been a hell of a lot more than he imagined, almost a bit of a waste. Thinking back what Sasaki said: "The world is more diverse than you think," Momonga concludes that the human was right
Elsewhere Sasaki and his friends return safely to their own world. Back right to the warehouse. The landing awaken Shizuka who complains why Sasaki is looking over her. Sasaki apologies as he was helping Shizuke wake up, and still causes the girl to feign panic calling out that she is being raped. Sasaki tries to explain he was only trying to help the girl who collapsed on the floor.
Still angry, Sasaki demands to know why Peeps is pecking at her and is told by Sasaki that his pet was only trying to wake her. In truth Sasaki heard that the sleeping magic Mare cast on Shizuka won't wake her up unless she received some damage, even if it's light, so he just asked Peeps to peck her.
The older man asks how Shizuka feels, and all the girl can recall was that the warehouse was suddenly glowing...which she thinks was a dream. Sasaki believes that is it, as weird dream appear in someone's sleep when they are in a bad mod. The man claims that he was had strange feeling while in the other world, so he came back to check and it seems he was right to do so.
Mentally Sasaki is relieved that the plan was carried out well as it looks like Shizuka recalls nothing of her time in the new world. Shizuka having no idea what happened, decides to go out for a drink and get a bite to eat and go home. Sasaki finds that the idea is good, and Shizuka invites him to join her which Sasaki accepts, but is told he has to pay.
As she heads out first, Peeps flies back on Sasaki's shoulder, and tells Sasaki that the girls does not remember much of what happened "out there" except to the extent that she mistook it for a dream. They have Momonga to thank for that. Sasaki still wraps his mind on the idea of another alternate universe. He still feels like he's dreaming but he knows it was real and recalls the words he said to Momonga, before being berated by Shizuka to hurry up.[8]
References[]
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 0: Prologue
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 1: An Invitation to Another World
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 2: Business Meetings in Another World
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 3: Former Company Employees in Another World
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 4: Battles in Another World
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 5: Joining Forces in Another World
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 6: Negotiations in Another World
- ↑ Sasaki, the Mage and the Undead King Episode 7: Returning from Another World