NOVEL WEB Chapter 18: Fishmen King
In the depths of the ocean, where light could scarcely penetrate, a city shone like a beacon of hope amidst the darkness.
"Welcome, this is our city," declared the leading fishman with a proud tone in his voice.
At first, Yverantheia had underestimated the intelligence of the fishmen soldiers, assuming the entire race lacked sophistication. However, she soon realized that the fishmen had specialized roles. The gatekeepers, in particular, displayed fluent speech and intellect comparable to humans. Their fish-like features were subtle, with only a fish head exposed under their clothing and hands that resembled human hands, covered in scales.
"I understand the situation now. I will request an audience with His Majesty. Please wait here for a moment," said the formally dressed fishman, nodding respectfully before disappearing behind a door.
Despite being a former saintess and not handling her own entry procedures, Yverantheia could sense the high quality of service here.
'If this city was built by monsters, they wouldn't care about such formalities…'
Monsters, even those capable of rational thought, typically did not engage in trade or diplomacy due to their nature and the prejudice of other races. Yet, this city seemed to operate like a genuine metropolis, hinting at trade relations with the outside world.
'I'll know more once I meet the Fishman King,' she thought.
Soon, the fishman returned and gestured for her to follow.
...
The Fishman King's palace was situated in the heart of the city. Its grandeur was impressive, rivaling the palaces of human kingdoms.
This confirmed the peculiar and advanced nature of the fishmen, or perhaps the entire abyss.
Yverantheia followed the palace attendants through corridors until they reached a large door.
"Our king awaits you inside," said the attendant.
"Understood," replied Yverantheia.
As the doors swung open, dozens of armored fishmen stood in formation, flanking the Fishman King on his throne.
No, he was no longer just a fishman. His body resembled a robust human male, covered in scales like armor, with a dignified face adorned with a short beard.
"Welcome!" boomed the Fishman King's voice, exuding authority.
"After verifying your defeat of the calamity, we are prepared to reward you. State your desire."
"My desire… how about you swear fealty to me?" Yverantheia mused, but she knew better than to voice such a demand. The fishmen's strength was not to be underestimated; the guards alone were third-level, and the general beside the king was fourth-level. The Fishman King himself matched the power of the demon tiger she had once faced, a formidable fifth-level entity, radiating a unique aura different from typical monsters.
"I want information about this ocean," she finally said.
"Is that all? Given your achievements, we can offer treasures as well," the king replied.
"I have no need for treasures. Honestly, I've been adrift at sea for a while and can't find my way back to land."
"Very well. Information about the ocean is no secret. However, we insist on honoring you as our guest if you stay."
"…" Yverantheia remained wary. The fishmen's strength was undeniable, and there was something in the king's tone that suggested he wanted her to stay.
"Puu!" came a sound from the small tentacle perched on her head.
"You have an idea?" Yverantheia asked.
"Puu!" The tentacle bobbed up and down.
"Alright, I'll stay for a while. But give me the information first so I can review it in my free time."
"No problem. Guards! Escort our hero to her quarters for some rest."
Following the king's orders, several fishman attendants appeared and guided Yverantheia to a guest room in the palace.
...
"Your Majesty, we've gathered the intelligence."
After Yverantheia departed, and once the guards and general had left, a fishman in black knelt before the king. Compared to the general who stood closest to the king, this black-clad fishman's strength was only slightly inferior.
"What did you find?"
"The general indeed harbors rebellious intentions and is likely to initiate a coup soon."
"Just as I suspected…"
Despite being the strongest, the king knew the general commanded substantial forces. Even if he won, the fishmen's strength would be severely diminished.
"May I ask, is your insistence on retaining that girl because…?"
"You've guessed it, so why should I explain?" the king pondered, then continued, "What do you think of her?"
"Her defeat of the calamity is verified, and her strength is undeniable. However, whether she can assist us…"
In this world, each ascending level brought significant power increases. Yet, sheer numbers could sometimes overwhelm higher-quality forces, especially at lower tiers.
"I believe she holds great secrets, possibly capable of extraordinary feats," the king said, his voice tinged with both trust and a hint of fear.
He recalled how the calamity had effortlessly swept aside his soldiers, approaching him directly and speaking a few words before vanishing. During that encounter, he had felt a primal fear and suppression, akin to a defenseless fish facing a prehistoric predator.
The calamity had mentioned a 'human,' resembling the girl he had just met.
'If it's her, maybe… no, surely she can accomplish it,' the king thought, issuing new orders to the black-clad fishman.
