It was obvious, Gazef Stronoff was not an easy man to find. A man like that would be traveling all over the land either by order or personal conviction to help the citizens of Re-Estize, something that Nigun Grid Luin couldn't help but admire. Humans in this world were low on the pecking order of power after all, villages needed all the help they could get. Of course there was "the problem" as well.

Humans were always tainted by the enemy.

Nigun and his small army, the Sunlight Scripture of the Slane Theocracy rested under the cover of night. Solders and warrior priests quietly chatted and laughed near small flames of their camps to help ward off the chill of the air and their personal demons. "My daughter is going to be five in a week. With luck our campaign will be done so I'd be able to celebrate this with my family." One voice spoke up over the rest. It was still quiet enough though, no telling what really lurked in the cover of night.

Another voice spoke up, probably a priest. "Congratulations my dear friend, to be so blessed with a family like yours, I'm sure the gods are smiling on us. Don't worry, I'm sure you'll see them again soon."

Other soft congratulations passed around. They had to take the small moments of comfort while they could, while the irony of the priest wasn't lost. What they had to do to protect their kingdom and do for the greater good of mankind wasn't something any god would bless but they had to do it all the same. To work in the dark so that the sun had a chance to rise again. That was why the Sunlight Scripture existed.

Nigun listened from a distance with his own direct disciple.

All of his men were a tired sort. Nearly as full of religious zeal as himself which allowed them to carry out their missions without question but still, like him they were only human. Typically, they were sent out to wipe out villages of the impure that existed in the world.

Monsters.

Creatures that easily attacked, tormented, and murdered humans without a thought. Many which treated people like insets or pests to be removed. Lizard, goblin, bat, troll, wolf, undead, anything could sprout like a weed near a human settlement and wipe them off the face of the earth in a shower of blood and meat. It didn't help that Nigun has seen it happen several times before either.

It was even worse when those creatures were smart. Almost seemed human before they turned violent like a beast. Sometimes their cries of help or begs of mercy would haunt him in the night. His only relief knowing that in doing so saved another human life from being destroyed in turn.

"…and if reports are correct Stronoff should be in the area… sir are you paying attention?"

Nigun was snapped out of his thoughts. "Sorry, sorry Afton. I've been finding it hard to focus lately, especially…"

"With this upcoming assignment?"

Nigun didn't say anything. Afton sighed, scratching underneath his helmet that was standard ware for all the soldiers save for their leader. They had to disguise as the Baharuth Empire least they drew unwanted attention as troops of the Theocracy. Aside from moments like these, his right hand was able to blend in with the rest of the troops. It was standard procedure in case something happened to Nigun to keep a chain of command. "We wiped out countless nests and monster villages. Occasionally we had to kill humans who became too friendly with them too. We are going to have to attack those settlements all the same to draw Stronoff to us but…. I share your concern. It's never easy attacking your own."

"It's more than that. We're going to be attacking a drifting army. Thats a lot of men that makes it their duty to defend their kingdom against the forces of evil. Enemies or not, that's going to be a blow to humanity as a whole."

"Regardless, it's what our leaders commanded. He falls, then support will follow within the kingdom for the Royalty for allowing him to die and the more easily influenced Nobles take charge. There's no doubt they'll continue to fight with themselves, as corrupt as they are. At that point our kingdom will annex theirs. One step closer to a united font."

Nigun reclined a bit from his spot. It still left a bad taste in his mouth but you don't question orders as a soldier, especially when it came from the Cardinals. He stretched out a growing kink in his back before he returned his sights to his cohorts. "So what have our intelligence enlightened us with?"

Afton pulled out a weathered map from a back pouch and handed it over to the Captain. "Stronoff is in the area as I said. We're going to have to make him come to us though, too much land to track him down ourselves. We found several villages that are a ways apart that also appear to have had… dealings with those unclean in one form or another. We should deal with them which would also draw out the captain to us." A small smile cracked, the only part where his head was visible to Nigun. "Two birds, one rock."

Nigun looked at the bit of parchment between his fingers. Four locations were circled, nearly a straight line and ending up near a forest. Two were so small that they weren't even listed as settlements but would be appropriate enough breadcrumbs to lead their target. Hopefully they'll have enough time to set up their trap.

"We'll have to split up to cover enough ground. Going from one to the next will take days by itself. We'll meet up here," Nigun pointed to a grassy unmarked plain on the map "south of this Carne village so that when we summon our angels nothing will hinder our air superiority. We'll make it fast and painless. Do the same with the villagers."

Afton took back the map and slowly got up from his spot, stiff as he was from sitting on the grass, the light armor he still wore not doing any favors. Still, with a quick nod he wandered off to the various company leaders to inform them of their new assignments.

Nigun Grid Luin looked up to the heavens, allowing the starry night sky to take away his thoughts and concerns. After all the vastness of the heavens didn't hold any concern to what happens on earth.

Yes, it is an absolute shame in the following week or so that more human life needed to end next to the vile for more of the righteous to flourish. However it was because one lesson he took to heart, one that he had to learn the hard way as he lightly touched the scar that ran along his left cheek, that drove this resolve.

You always kill a traitor before the enemy.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

It has been roughly three days since Momonga arrived as a permanent resident of the Great Tomb of Nazarick as his avatar and already he learned quite a lot. First; resting was pretty much like you'd get in a game. Do it in your bed, feel refreshed, and fully restocked on magic or at least you didn't feel as 'empty' as before.

Second; the maids need work.

Oh it wasn't that they were lazy, no no no! They were more dedicated to their task than probably the floor guardians themselves! Probably. There were 41 homunculi maids that all looked and acted perfectly human. Thing was, they were very… excited and enthusiastic on serving their master as Momonga discovered upon waking up from his nearly dreamless state. A soft knock was herd outside of his door. Sniffing some of the sleep away, Momonga merely said "enter" and was almost flooded with servants getting a jump on serving him however they could. Half of the 41 stuffed themselves into his room in an orderly fashion, giving himself a nice shock when he was introduced to the whirlwind of soft chatter as they did EVERYTHING.

"We'll change your sheets Lord Momonga!"

"Shall we prepare a morning bath Lord Momonga?"

"Allow us to change your clothes Lord Momonga!"

"Lord Momonga, what will your schedule be?"

"Let us accompany you Lord Momonga!"

Not one of them talked over the other or in a loud voice, which was the apparent secret to have Momonga go through the whole ordeal without speaking up once if it wasn't related to a question.

The other half of the maids were already waiting in the halls, give or take ten who were probably cleaning what they could just in 'preparation' of their lord, in a silent curtsy before the rest were finished cleaning - NO, STERILIZING - his quarters and joined them in their bow which lead to the next point.

Third; he was never alone. Once the girls were all lined up, an armed escort arrived and followed him EVERYWHERE. As well as four maids as the rest ran off to do their duties. Momonga didn't mind people usually. He was an introvert sure, he got burned out being around a lot of people for too long but it never really impacted him too much. After two days of it though, already he found his resolve beginning to break.

Now every step eventually had a bit more speed and force as eventually destinations no longer mattered as Momonga stalked the halls, instead opting to trying to lose their trail in a 'convenient manner' but they all seemed to know where he was every waking moment! After the 10th hallway he just suddenly stopped walking, nearly causing his armor wearing guards that looked like demonic knights to clang into each other as well as the maids bringing up the rear. Turning on his heel, he glared at them as best as his skull could do (which was pretty damn well by default) and held up a hand.

"First I wanted to thank you for your dedication," the small entourage was about to say something but Momonga quickly cut it off, "however there is no need to guard me, especially within these walls!"

The total of six within that group nearly looked at each other but one voiced their own concern. "My lord, it's not only our privilege and honor, but it's also a command given to us by lady Albedo to make sure you're fine in whatever your tasks may be." Finishing with a bow.

Momonga stood deadpan to what he heard before pinching the space between his eye-sockets. Undead or not, the familiar tingles of a headache were beginning for form. Worst of all was that he respected their commitment there. "So it was her command to nearly have every maid wait in my room for me to awaken?"

"Y-yes my lord. Does it displease you?"

Momonga just watched them as the maids slunk a little lower in their bow. "Displease is stronger than I would use but I do feel it's completely unnecessary. Is there a particular reason why the maids wait in my room?"

The maids quickly cast glances at each other while the knights were left a little clueless. "We were just excited to truly serve one of our creators. Usually all our work was done when all of the Supreme Beings left for whatever it was you did for the day or longer. Now that you're the last, lady Albedo was concerned you would need to be as comfortable as you could be so most of us were to greet you for the morning."

That was the trouble and why Momonga couldn't really snap at them. They did their job and they really cared. That's why he was reluctant to keep thinking of them as NPC's, even if the word came to mind time to time. What else were you supposed to think when the world still acted so much like the game?

Of course, Albedo was beginning to be another matter. As the Guardian Overseer, she's his right hand on everything in Nazarick so logically she could make those commands if she wanted and the rest of the NP… denizens of Nazarick are obligated to follow. "Listen, just ignore Albedo for the time being about giving me an armed guard and stop waiting outside my room. None of you need to look over me so closely."

"Yes Lord Momonga." The disappointment was tinged on their tone of voice but they didn't question it, and slowly they left him to stand alone in the marble halls. 'You see? A bit of communication and most problems can be solved.'

Unfortunately he never got back to talking to Albedo about stopping such commands by getting distracted much later that day. Giving up on going anywhere without some form of company, as Narberal eventually stuck to his side once they crossed paths, he retired back to his room trying to swing swords. Practicing in his dressing room, Momonga tried to wield one while he stood before a grand mirror resting upon a soft carpeted purple floor. It was as if every time he moved that weapon with intent, his hand lost its grip entirely.

Momonga huffed as the sword ended up flat on the ground. Mocking him with the fact the simple piece of iron didn't want to be used. If going back to the idea that some elements of the game followed over, then yes his build as a duel class mage wouldn't cut it. 'Still this is just infuriating, it DOESN'T MAKE ANY SENSE! If this is a new reality for me, what laws of physics say I am just completely unable to swing a piece of metal like a bat?! Then again this is coming from the living dead… that can cast spells.' "Narberal, can you hand me those daggers please?" He asked as he bent down to retrieve the sword.

"My lord you shouldn't exert yourself with such minuscule matters, I would have been able to retrieve the sword for you." Narberal stated, handing him the handles of two smaller blades resting on a cloth and accepting the larger weapon in return.

Momonga bit his nonexistent tongue. 'At this rate, I'd be doing absolutely nothing if they had a say. Then again maybe thats just how "servants" treat their "masters."' "It's fine, I don't mind cleaning up after myself from time to time."

"Of course."

Satisfied, Momonga tested the long thin knifes. He gave a few simple jabs. They didn't fall. Adjusting them so one blade was positioned under his fist, he stared slashing and ducking around an invisible enemy. Surprisingly his robe flowed like water with him not once impeding his crouched movements. This was the nature of his second class.

'Initially, I tried to go a full roleplay with a mage set. However with how many spells and abilities I earned before I was able to completely max out thanks to items like my magic rings, I found I had a few skill points left over. Made more sense to dump them into a secondary class than to put them to things that seem otherwise useless in the original build. So I ended up getting some levels into the thieves ranks. Nothing to be an assassin, but enough that if I ever loose enough MP I could sneak away and be no slouch with a dagger for a sneak attack. It just ended up being a bit of insurance more than anything, although… I do sometimes wish I tossed a bit more into expanding my magic pool.'

Momonga paused a moment when he finished his test to look at himself in the mirror. The massive skeleton stared back, eyes glowing from pinpricks in the skull with an orange light. With a finger he lightly traced his head in the reflection.

'So much of this just doesn't make sense. Some rules stay, others changed, a few are gone entirely. After my initial scare, I don't feel any worse or even that different being in this new body. I apparently don't have to sleep, I don't get tired after all, but am fully able to. Everything is working as good as my old body too, except that weird moment I felt that wave of calm. Or that really weird ting of… I guess it can be called 'excitement' when Shalltear grabbed me with that little declaration.'

He instinctively looked down at his waistline that was still nothing but bone and couldn't help but feel a tad depressed from it.

'I never even had a chance to use it. Almost 30 years old and not once! Talk about drawing the short stick here.'

A small quiet sigh escaped his mouth. Still, if the little vampire and Albedo (if her saying he was the love of her life during their pledge to him meant anything) they wouldn't mind it. Given that it's a world of magic, could they find a way?

Well whatever happens, he can at least take comfort that in spite of everything he was still himself.

Back to the matter at hand.

Momonga looked around the room for a moment. For what was a dressing room, there was an obvious lack of clothing anywhere to be seen. Instead piles of weapons from short-swords to staffs and everything in between were piled in places and hung on walls for others. Momonga ever really treated it like a shortstop drop location for things that he didn't want to drag around in his inventory but didn't want to dedicate to the treasury for the entire guild either. Unfortunately this meant that he didn't have anything to disguise himself with.

So this time he fell back to plan b.

"Create Greater Item."

Casting one of the few spells he knew by heart, his body shimmered for a moment before being draped under a brand new cloak that was a perfect grey trimmed with olive greens that hid every feature of himself under an inky void. It was at the sacrifice of the daggers in his hand and some other low tier junk being recycled from the room to complete the spell. Fitting his mental intentions of a rouge, he felt appropriately disguised enough to wander a bit for himself. "Narberal I'm going to step outside Nazarick for a moment." 'I need a moment to breathe and clear my head away from everyone else in a way a well rest can't do.'

"Allow me to summon some guards to accompany you."

Oh the words he really didn't want to hear. "No need, I already told some maids and guards that Albedo's order is no longer of any concern. If word hasn't spread, then that's my fault for not being clear."

"It's not that, your command was passed between everyone." Narberal said. "It's simply if you leave without an escort then you'd have no one to protect you if you get into danger. It's our sworn duty to act as your shields and perish for you."

"Enough." His full attention was turned to the maid, the deepest depths of black under the hood staring right at her. "This is a decision that I made which is of the upmost importance and secrecy. It needs to be done." He lied right out his ass.

"As you wish my lord."

She didn't question that fact, and truth be told it did sting him to lie. They care but it didn't sit right to also hear that they were too willing to die for him. 'If nothing else at this rate, how could I believe they would ever turn on me?' It was still a possible concern, after all he would have to keep as many of the Nazarick citizens as happy as he could manage, but for now he was being smothered in their affections.

Opening another warp tunnel with his clan ring, Momonga went as far outside as it could reach; right to the steps leading out from the first floor. Judging by how dark everything was as he crept up the stair laid hallway, it must have been close to midnight. 'After a while the passing of time really starts to slip away, doesn't it? It would help if I could see the sun.'

Momonga took the steps as quietly as he could, back to the wall as he crept forward. He could practically feel the fresh air circulate around him, adding a bit of haste to his movements, at least before seeing the outlines of some monstrous figures ahead. Apparently they decided to lie in wait for him.

…Okay, they weren't waiting for HIM but after some nonstop forced attention it didn't feel like it was far off from being the case. Momonga took a moment to suck up his nerves and get it over with. Just another round of 'you can't be alone my lord' or 'you need a living shield from the threat of your own shadow my lord.'

Wow he got testy when he didn't get some alone time didn't he?

Standing at full height, both groups saw each other clearly. 'Fantastic, so who are they?'

One was a full on classic demon as you would expect. Fangs and covered in scales, flame wings, and a snake headed tail. The next looked like an ample woman caught up in bondage gear with a crows head bound in leather. The final was a young man with horns, full plate armor with its chest bare and open to the world and his own pair of black bat wings. They were the "evil lords" Wrath, Lust, and Greed. They weren't just any minions, but elite guards, and who they belonged to wasn't stationed on the first floor but the seventh which meant…

Great.

"Demiurge."

"My Lord!"

Demiurge walked out from between the much larger demons to get a clear look at the cloaked figure of Momonga, before bowing down and his guards following suit. It didn't stop the three from whispering to each other barely audible, even to their two betters. "What is the masters master doing here?" "Are you sure it's not just another monster?" "He's bowing, he doesn't bow for anyone but him! We're being quite honored here."

Momonga swallowed his anxiety, straightened up and walked forward this time calling up as much muster of being a lord as he has been called for the past 72 hours. Slowly, calculated, every step as full as intention as possible, he strode up to their forms looking straight forward. None of the monsters being able to see his face under his hooded appearance helped. Once he got close enough, they all lowered their heads as Demiurge spoke up. His jeweled eyes sparkling behind the perfectly rounded glasses in confusion and anticipation.

"My lord, may I ask why you're here and why are you dressed as you are?"

Honestly Momonga was a little disappointed his disguise was apparently paper thin. 'It was probably because I called out his name, but I couldn't help it. I was a bit shocked to see him here.'

"I'm surprised Demiurge, I thought you would know why I was here and why I was wearing this." Momonga's even tone of his avatar-turned-self said, not betraying his actual thoughts by lacking the edge it would have had. 'Just let me through and get some fresh air.'

"My deepest apologies for being unable to divine your fathomless intentions, Lord Momonga."

"It's… fine. Anyways while I'm out here, address me as The Shadow and nothing more."

"…The Shadow my lord…? I see… So that's what's going on."

Momonga froze rooted to his spot for a moment. What? He watched Demiurge's face go from confusion to understanding from his kneeling position. Honestly Momonga didn't know how smart the demon actually was, but if he remembered correctly Demiurge was supposed to be an absolute genius. Someone who could not only see between the lines of plans within plans but give it back twofold. That was why Momonga was wary of him the most to begin with! All Momonga wanted was for them to use that code name incase other monsters came by. Especially if it now happened to be the other floor guardians if they were wandering around.

Especially if at this rate if Albedo decided to come out. He didn't see much of her but he felt her everywhere.

"I believe I have an idea on your schemes… Lord The Shadow. Really they're the ones only a ruler of the Great Tomb could take into consideration. I must however insist you should be accompanied with whatever you do from here on out. If you'll allow it, please let me inconvenience you with having one of us escort you for the time being."

"…If I must, very well then. I'll allow one to travel with me."

Demiurge gave what Momonga his usual demonic grin. "Thank you Lord The Shadow for allowing me this selfish request."

"Just call me shadow. Please. Anything else just interferes with my intentions."

"J-just not use your rightful title?! My Lord Momo- The Shadow, it would be one thing if we were on a mission as spies or another if we had to for absolute secrecy, but within the Great Tomb of Nazarick anything less will not show the respect you rightfully deserve! If I may be so bold as to advise you on this, never lesser yourself for any reason!"

His words reverberated in the room. It was the first time Momonga heard him so passionate, and they have met a few times to get updates on their security progress.

"Forgive me for waisting your time with this Lord Mo - The Shadow. Everyone, I'll be accompanying our master. Wait here for farther orders and tell the others that we'll be off."

"Of course master Demiurge." Replied the three demons.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

It was as incredibly refreshing as Momonga could have hoped, his first steps out of the mausoleum into the new world. Even in the dead of night, everything was so bright under the soft blue glow of the full moon and glittering lights of far away stars. It took a magic item to get a sky view of everything, but it was absolutely worth it. Only in the far distance could he see the faintest specks of orange, probably a settlement that has yet to turn to sleep?

It didn't matter really. This sight of lush forests, vast grasslands, far off mountains, and calm lakes, this cool breeze whipping around him, this air that was cleaner than he ever thought possible, if he could cry Momonga was sure he would have shed a tear from the pure beauty of this unspoiled landscape.

"Oh Blue Planet, I wish you were here to see this." His old guild-mate would have loved this beyond any doubt, especially hearing from him firsthand how bad Japan was to begin with back in the old world. "This is truly something precious. More precious than any gold, jewel, or spell I can think of or ever wanted."

"Perhaps" a voice from behind said, "this world exists for that reason. To be a jewel more valuable just for you to hold for yourself Mo- The Shadow." It was Demiurge in a transformed state to allow him to fly as well. His now frog like head a bit raspier than it was before, leathery wings beating behind effortlessly to hold him up next to his master.

Momonga's irritation flashed for a second but didn't allow it to spoil the moment. "You don't have to call me that anymore Demiurge. It was more for those left behind in the first level. Anyways, its not like I could hoard it to myself even if I wanted to. All this is so much more than me. If nothing else, it would be a claim for my friends in Ainz Ooal Gown, and all of Nazarick. Even more if others truly know the value of all this."

"…My lord… you have moved me. If it is what you want, I will unleash all of our forces and claim it all for yourself. Nothing would please me more than to help you fulfill your desires Lord Momonga."

Momonga couldn't help but chuckle a little, he was sure the demon didn't hear it with the wind around them from their altitude. "You make it sound like we can just go out and conquer the world. You know, that could be fun or at least interesting to see." It would fit with how he looked at least. Like some old cartoon villain who ended getting up thwarted by the end of every episode. He barely suppressed a giggle, seeing himself as a undead king but doing things that would be unlike a king or evil as he appeared helping the every day citizen.

It was an odd take he loved that he shared with Tabula Smaragdina. Something about "gap moe" where contradictions between characters and actions were considered 'cute.' Momonga found it more funny, like the time when he and his friends played an unrelated game and came across an NPC named "Evil Chancellor Tray-Tor" the most beloved civil servant of the kingdom who was framed for murder of their king. Believe it or not, it held true as he was innocent. The character looked vile but helped run an orphanage where the kids loved him.

Needless to say, it was things like that which helped him pick the Overlord path to begin with, and to follow Touch Me as a role model and friend ever since the knight saved him from other players trying to get an easy kill. Not to mention quite a few of the other guild-members used to joke about taking over the Yggdrasil game world before, just for the hell of it. Not like it would be possible. Logistics alone made sure that held true. Running it afterwards would be quite a nightmare too.

Unfortunately with this bit of reminiscence, Momonga missed that slight flash of realization that waved over Demiurge's face as if he just got a hint that solved almost everything he was currently curious about. In fact, all Momonga could think about where his old guild mates. Would he ever see them again? Would Herohero be disappointed, or upset, that Momonga would never see him? Peroroncino, who he was going to meet in another game? Bukubukuchagama… a tinge of regret welled up in his chest. After thinking it over the last few nights, how many hints has she given that he didn't even notice? She was always friendly, and god he was stupid for being stunned in the end without saying a thing before she left.

…

No.

It's not going to help anyone to linger on that now. He tried to reach out to his friends with a message. He tried to reach the game mods. He even, just to verify, reached out to Sebas to see if the message system (now the message spell) worked and only Sebas responded. It was all in hope that he could reach SOMEONE.

Someone…

Wait, what would the chances be that he was the only player transported? If anyone else was on, how likely would it be that they were transported too? It wasn't farfetched that the guild-members made a new character too just to try something different. Leveling was incredibly easy in that game as part of abusing it's MASSIVE tech tree to find the right combo that worked for you, the real power was the item and weapon drops that you could usually only get on guild raids or if you stumbled on a secret power because you happened to pick the right tech path for it. A lot of that information was jealously guarded in their guilds.

Yes, if someone was still out there, they would have heard of Ainz Ooal Gown.

All he would have to do is spread the word and they would come to him.

A shifting of trees from the corner of his eye brought Momonga back to reality. "Is that Earth Surge? Grow Plant and Water Surge as well. That must be Mare. I should have been helping him day one, let's see how he's doing."

"You shouldn't worry too much my Lord." Demiurge said as they flew their way down. "Mare recruited several golems and undead to help carve the earth and plant saplings for him to grow later. Aura has been around as well with her animals to help hull sections and decide what to populate the area with as you requested. As a forest, it is starting to come along splendidly I must admit."

"Still, it's not easy. Not only is this time consuming but it will leave him wiped of mana before the day's over with. Not to mention we don't want to be discovered and infiltrated before we're finished here. On that note hows our perimeter security? I know for a fact that Albedo took the order for internalized security with… gusto when I approached her ."

"Indeed." Was that a bit of irritation in Demiurge's voice? It disappeared as quickly as it came. "We have an early warning net set up roughly three miles in every direction, if any unrecognized life comes in we can track them without them ever knowing."

"Very good, thank you Demiurge. You may need to discuss more with Albedo if theres any farther ways to improve it, just makes sure she doesn't go too far overboard."

"Of course my lord, you humble me with your praise. If I may, what will you be doing next?"

"Since Mare is preforming this beyond what I was expecting, I want to give him a suitable reward and support where I can."

Demiurge's frog like face gave a soft smile. "I believe just talking to him would be reward enough, and there should be no need for you to do any of his work."

The pair landed, gaining the attention from the elf as he finished. "Demiurge!" He greeted running up the short distance between them along the roof of the wall. "A-and Lord Momonga. You look different. Uh oh, why are you here? A-am I in trouble, did I do something wrong?"

"Of course not. I'm here to praise you for what you done. I also need to apologize (N-no you don't Lord Momonga!) that I haven't been able to help you. Allow me to do so now with this."

Under the cloak neither Mare or Demiurge could see Momonga pull out an item from his inventory, but both were surprised once he presented a small ring with a glistening red jewel imprinted with a certain symbol.

"T-that's a ring of Ainz Ooal Gown! Only a Supreme Being can use it, I could never accept something so valuable! Not when all I was d-doing was just my duty. We exist to give everything to the Supreme Beings so it's only natural…."

"Only natural that hard work should be recognized." Momonga finished, holding the palm of the boy open in his own as he placed the ring into the dark elf's hand. He felt the shudder run through the smaller monsters body, causing him to go so far to make sure the damage-by-touch spell didn't reactivate itself by accident. "If you're worried, then do this. Take it and continue your loyal service to me. It's the greatest gift you can give back as well."

The boy flushed and accepted the ring with a small thank you, trembling all the while. Trying it on, it resized to fit his finger.

"Just calm down Mare. Teleportation is difficult and draining at best within the walls of Nazarick, and impossible for outsiders to attempt if they're never accepted as one of our own. This way, you may freely move about with the ring's own magic. I wish I could lend you my own power to help with your work, so allow this to be the closest I can do to lend a hand."

Mare took several shaky breaths before nodding quickly.

"I know that it's a big responsibility for me to place on your shoulders as well. Just remember that I'm giving it to you because I'm pleased with what you're doing. If I didn't believe you were, then everything that ring represents wouldn't mean much. So wear it proudly."

"L-lord Momonga, thank you for the amazing gift. I'll be sure to work extra hard to not disappoint you!"

The cloaked lord gave a hearty chuckle. "I'm sure you won't. Just don't forget to rest and eat. Moderation is always key."

"Yes! T-thank you!"

Momonga smiled warmly to himself seeing the boy regain his excitement and disbelief, eyes practically sparkling at his reward. The three were suitably distracted enough to not hear another approach, later causing Demiurge to swear to himself to always remain aware in the future.

"Ah Lord Momonga! I was looking everywhere for you!"

They all turned to face a woman who was created to be the embodiment of all feminine beauty, but the men were impassive. At the moment, her hair looked a little more frayed than when Momonga first saw her. She was starting to look a little bit tired, something that didn't fit her design where she was more or less to look like a goddess. Her otherwise white clothes had very small speckles of red on them as well.

"Albedo, it's good to see you." Momonga said evenly.

"It took a while to find you my lord, some underlings at the entrance tried to convince me that some unknown servant named 'Lord the shadow' came by and refused to explain more when questioned. At least initially." Pulling a few fingers up to rest on her chin she gave a small smile.

Demiurge was less than pleased. "You do understand they were my bodyguards working under my orders and the orders of our Lord to relay that information? Lord Momonga simply wished to see the progress out here with Mare. Although I do hope this becomes a valuable lesson of tact on their part."

"I hope so too." The succubus agreed, not noticing his tone. "The manner of how our lord should be served and protected is the top most importance to all of us."

Momonga stepped forward. "Albedo."

His tone was soft but cold. "I am very… displeased with this."

Whatever Albedo was expecting, it wasn't this! "Lord Momonga, please forgive me. I… what have I done to displease you?!" She was barely keeping her voice down and even. What could she ever possibly do to make him even remotely upset or disappointed?!

"We don't attack our own."

O-oh. With that she realized, a bit too late, that she indeed violate an ingrained law that was buried deep within. How could she ignore that? It's not like she forgot…

Albedo was in shock, so Momonga took this as a chance to continue. "Every one in Nazarick who has been made by my friends hands is special to me. You included. I don't believe I have to say this but I will. We don't. Attack. Our own. If you need to punish them, that's fine. As the Overseer it is within your rights but I'm concerned you might cross a line and do something far worse, as I have experienced your 'dedication' already with the maids and escorts. It went far beyond a simple cleaning and guard detail. Just allow the other floor guardians to handle their underlings. Try and calm yourself and think with a cool head. Then you can regain my favor."

Shame. That's all Albedo could feel. Sure she… went farther than she should have. But that was all to make up for her earlier transgression of harming her beloved! Now he's saying that this was just too much?!

"Albedo." She looked at him. His cloaked figure holding out a skeletal hand to touch her face. "Don't think I'm unforgiving." 'After all it's my fault you ended up like this.' "This is still different for all of us. Take some time to collect yourself, let me help you, and trust my judgement."

"O…Of course Momonga."

Albedo's eyes were wide, blush deep into her cheeks as his finger and thumb held up her chin.

"Excellent. I'm glad we have an understanding now. I believe I'll retire for the evening. Demiurge, Mare, keep up the good work and I'll be seeing you again soon."

With that he left with his own ring (which now seemed to be within range) and made it back to his room.

Mare moved back before Albedo had a chance to look at the gift on his finger so he could return to his work, as Demiurge helped usher the succubus away. Apparently her legs became too weak for the moment to function correctly. Such was the power of a Supreme Being to tame and calm even the most spirited of souls, the demon mused.

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Somewhere on the third floor, behind an illusory wall and bolted door, if one was deathly silent they could hear the faint sounds of moaning. It was feminine, and it wasn't alone. Within that door lies the personal quarters of Shalltear Bloodfallen. The room was large and dark, as something to accommodate a floor guardian should be in the vampire's own opinion. A wall length mirror and dresser piled with beauty products and bunched up socks rested across from a massive velvet and dark purple circular bed. Above was an equally large overhang, held with chains and decorated with thin veils as to hide the occupants or close up like a lid if they so choose.

As it were, the ones within were the true vampire herself and two of her Vampire Brides. The brides were doing what they always done on nights like these, pleasuring their master as best as they knew how. However tonight, much like the last few nights, Shalltear only felt frustrated. She felt like she SHOULD be enjoying this. That this WAS what she wanted. But now all she felt was hallow. Eventually her last nerve snapped.

"ENOUGH!" Both brides wailed in surprise as they scrambled off the bed, " I want both of you gone!" No farther explanation was wanted or needed, the brides were secretly relieved to be released. It wasn't like they didn't enjoy it themselves but when Shalltear got into a mood, and they saw it coming long before it happened, things tended to get violent. The small vampire glared at the ceiling as she heard the door open and closed.

A moment passed.

Then another.

Finally she lashed out with her arms and legs under the covers screaming in stress. It wasn't anything more than a temper tantrum but that pent up frustration had to go somewhere. With a few soft pants she crawled out to the edge, but not before tripping herself on the sheets. Not paying attention or having anyone to impress, she didn't care. Her mind was far enough away already.

Slowly she made her way to the mirror to stare at herself. It wasn't silver, so she appeared just fine thank you very much! After all silver was a holy metal, that's what caused the lack of reflection. She touched her face, her damnably young round face and flatty flat flat chest! She loved her creator dearly, but couldn't he give her something more to work with?

It was all because of Momonga. After he did that… thing to her and the others she just couldn't get it out of her mind, and with good reason! Despite being undead, she felt urges. Wants. Anger. Happiness. But it was always muted. She THOUGHT it was normal until then, but then she was just drowning in peace. His love. And she wanted every moment to last for eternity. Now everything just felt empty. It was just UNFAIR!

"I need to get my mind off of this." Shalltear groaned. Slowly she took absentminded steps to her private bath, the only feeling she had now was her hair traveling down her entire backside. Turning on the faucet to the hottest water she could get in her tub that could fit five people…

'Or one Lord Momonga and I…'

She shook her head. Before she knew it the tub was full of scolding water. Scolding enough for anyone else at least, but a normal bath to help her distract herself a little. Getting in, a tingle crept up her spine.

'My lord in here WITH ME!' It was too tempting to her. Slowly Shalltear's fingers worked themselves down her body as thoughts of her simply being with her beloved were enough to help release some of her pent up tension. It was MORE than enough. Her mind raced more and more. She saw what that banshee Albedo was doing too. She saw how she kept close watch over him! Doing whatever she could to pull favors! Originally Shalltear was going to wait until the time seemed right to strike, but apparently she was going to have to take a far more proactive approach. Finally… THAT WAS IT, the image of her lord absolutely dominating over her! Her loud pants reverberated in the master bathroom.

Yes, screw waiting around. She was going on the offensive and claim what was rightfully hers. Just not right now. For the moment, it would behoove her to change out the water and actually clean up this time.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Momonga wasn't ready to turn in just yet for the night. Now that he had his taste of the outside world he felt a little rebellious. Simply he wanted to look around the ninth floor now that things were far more alive than before. With his guards, he felt too pressured to do any real sightseeing. However seeing that his new cloak concealed him pretty well and no one else knew of it yet, it just needed a little extra something.

It took several moments before he found what he was looking for in his inventory; an absolute concealment charm fashioned like an ornate leaf brooch. Unlike the magic dampening ring which helped conceal his power, this would make him undetectable from anything but direct sight at the cost of not being able to cast spells. Even in the game where you could see outlines of your allies, with this you could be undetectable. All you could rely on was your own skills so if you got downed, you better hope your friends could find you or otherwise it was tough luck. You couldn't just take it off either, a cool-down time would pass regardless before anyones magic or abilities were available again. A top class item indeed, in the right hands could be devastating.

Clipping it on, Momonga nearly fell to the ground. 'Damn, that didn't just suppress my magic, it consumed it all!' Well no going back now. Giving himself a new hunched over posture so he would be less recognized, he crept out of his room the moment the coast was clear. Then he was set loose. Not a single golem, maid, demon, ANYONE paid him any attention as he scooted around avoiding as many as he could on his way to the shops. There were plenty of oddball monsters roaming the halls since the order was given to keep an eye for intruders, he honestly didn't look so out of place so it felt amazing.

On the other hand, there was concern that no one pointed out that a weird looking monster-

"HEY YOU!"

Nevermind.

A small penguin, really a Birdman but that's what he was, waddled onto his path with his servants in tow.

"I was doing my rounds and saw you scurry about like some kind of lump! I been cleaning these halls since the beginning of the foundation of Nazarick, and I never seen you before! Are you an intruder?! If so, here's your chance to bow down to me before all our forces leave you a stain that I'll clean up in a flash!"

This was Eclair Ecleir Eicler. Momonga only remembered him briefly as a joke character that Ankoro Mocchi Mochi made some time back and not much else. Although the penguin didn't seem like a threat, he sure was loud and already drew a fair amount of attention.

'Oh great. Genius me and my genius idea to seal off my magic to explore my own place!'

Momonga's mind raced. Either he was going to bluff, reveal himself, or take a hit or two and THEN reveal himself. Could he even survive being attacked by… 20 monsters at once?!

He steeled himself. Fuck it, if he was going to make a bad decision then he might as well go all in. Otherwise pain and humiliation would be exactly what he deserved to get into this spot to begin with.

"I am no intruder! I am a new creation of the supreme being, the great lord Momonga!" He forced his voice to something higher. After seeing his subordinates make these kind of claims all the time, Momonga knew what to say at least. The trick however was to believe it. "You see, I was to seek out the corners where such intruders would hide in away from the public eye and our usual patrol paths. If I wasn't created by him I wouldn't know you, the great butler Eclair Ecleir Eicler!"

'After all a bit of flattery couldn't hurt. I just hope I got this.'

It was a tense several seconds. Eclair studied him almost looking into his soul. It should have been impossible, his hood hid all features and the items didn't negate other items!

"Ha!" Eclair squawked, "Yes I can see that is true! In that case you have my full approval to continue your mission."

"Thank you sir Eclair."

The moment the tension faded, Momonga bowed as much as his squat allowed and moved on, trying to keep the panic out. 'Ok this was a bad idea, I got to get back to my room before anyone else stops me. No probleeeeeeeeee -thats Demiurge and Albedo down the hall!' As luck still had it, neither looked up as he ducked down another hall as they engaged each other in some discussion. His presence wasn't felt after all.

Now just dedicating himself to avoid everyone and putting his rogue skills to the test, he took to the maze of halls before finally getting cornered with one door far down what was sure to be a dead end path. Whatever, he took it. He flew through, and quietly closed the door. No one saw or suspected a thing.

"We're closed."

Well almost no one saw him. Dropping the act Momonga stood up to his full height and observed his surroundings. It was a small area, a long table lined with barstools filled up most of the room. A large liquor cabinet nearly covered the back wall, and one particular creature had his back to Momonga. He looked a bit like a living greenish mushroom with red eyes along its head, wearing a sharp servers uniform.

"My apologies, I didn't know." Momonga said in his normal voice.

The sound of a small glass crashing followed.

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Momonga sat on the bar stool, hood off, observing the drink in front of him. The Sous-chef who ran the bar had a quick change of heart to serve a Supreme Being, and offered to make him what was considered his, or rather a, signature drink.

And a small bowl on the side to catch the sips.

Taking the chance to see if he could taste something, Momonga carefully moved the bowl right under the jawline. It was odd feeling to say the least. Then he lifted up the glass. It was the "Nazarick," complete with different levels of colors and flavors to represent the real thing, all perfectly separated. Carefully he took a sip.

And nearly spat it back out! 'What was that, it was nearly pure alcohol!' Although he couldn't be poisoned, it at least shown that his taste buds still worked (praise whoever to allowed him to keep them). Unable to stop his sputtering, Sous-chef or perhaps just Sous, took the glass away.

"That bad sir?"

"It just" *ahem* "wasn't for me. I do appreciate it all the same, you proved to me that I can taste."

Sous-chef said nothing for a moment, thinking over what he was going to say carefully. "I should thank you too for your honesty my lord. Frankly I'm disappointed with it too, but my few regulars always order it because of the name. They claim to love it. I thought I might have just wrong tastes."

"Ah, well, everyone has their own preference. If you want to make something different though, I am a fan of sweeter things."

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

This next glass was far better! Momonga also learned that to really taste it on his tongue, he had to lift the bowl just right to be leveled to where the tongue would be.

The contents were a solid semi transparent ember, but had more of a wine cooler taste. Still, works for him! Sous-chef seemed to be proud, finally serving something different that would please his hardest cliental, compared to the others.

Momonga lowered everything with a content sigh. "Very delightful. I also didn't know that we had a bar here in Nazarick. It's a bit hidden isn't it?"

"Many don't know, and a part of me does like to keep it as such if I could my lord. Those I serve are my usual customers and I can count them on one 'hand.'" The mushroom held up three tentacles to prove his point. "But I like it that way. Quiet reflection and being able to unwind."

Momonga looked at him wistfully. "Ever since I started staying here full time in Nazarick, I felt like I had no space for myself. That… makes this place a much more treasured secret. I'll try not to bring any unwanted attention."

"It's fine sir. It really is. I do have a few small tricks to make it completely unnoticeable and besides you and any floor guardian I can shoo away any unwanted eyes that come this way. Your continued patronage will be most valued."

'Patronage implies you want money which you turned down, but I won't complain. Everyone needs their hobbies. Guess that's what helps make this setting so relaxing.' Pulling his hood back up he was about to wish his host a good night before the door clicked open.

"Ah, Eclair! How good to see you. How can I serve?"

"Just the ushe. Hey it's the guy that was wandering out in the halls. It's nice to know you got some taste at least."

Momonga didn't want to turn to him, even if the bird couldn't see his face. With a slight nod, he was about to get up until Eclair spoke again. "Piki, you're moving up in the world with new clients. Although when I become ruler of Nazarick, I'll make sure everyone has a chance to at least taste your amazing creations."

Things got deathly silent in that bar.

"Could you repeat that?" Momonga said, very softly. Soft enough his real voice didn't carry through with it.

"New guy must have a hearing problem," chuckled Eclair, not noticing the sign Sous-Chef was giving him to STOP. "I said when I rule Nazarick everyone will try-"

"When YOU rule Nazarick?" Momonga lowered his hood and stood tall above the Birdman, the fiery pinpricks in his skull glaring daggers to the small creature. While Momonga knew of Eclair he didn't know of the backstory set for the fellow being the joke (instead of the fact it was a penguin butler), but that no longer mattered.

The hope Momonga had that the NPC's wouldn't turn on him shattered. Without another word, the overlord shoved the hood back over his head and stormed out, leaving a terrified Eclair and concerned Sous-chef behind.

"Well my friend," the bartender muttered, "it was nice knowing you."

—

A.N.:

Ushe is the closest thing I could find to "usual."

If you wanted to know, I'll be following the anime mostly as reference, the light novels as some supplementary, and the manga not at all.

As I said, monthly updates.

If you like this so far, please leave a comment. It helps push this story forward. Might even give me more to consider as time goes on. Well I hope you enjoyed this bit, that you had a great Christmas, and a happy new year!

Oh and a copy of this story is being uploaded to under the same name, for both the story and the writer. Some people like to download this stuff to read on ebooks and kindles, myself included so maybe as it goes on it'll be worth it to have as part of your own library.

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