Minerva Ooal Gown.
That was her name, given by the leaders of the Supreme Beings.
A union that represents all the best aspects of Momonga and Kyoko, as well as the first in line to succeed their rule of Nazarick.
Many viewed her as an exalted lady of the highest pedigree, whose facade of clueless little girl serves her ends (and more importantly, the source of joy for her parents), whose intelligent rivals that of Demiurge yet boasting also the strength on par with that of Sebas.
Their optimal inheritor who is also loved and skilled enough to warrant the respect of her two younger brothers.
Truly, she is perfection in every way comprehensible and incomprehensible.
But right now… At least for this moment…
"Minerva-chan! Look out!"
It doesn't matter…
(Thwack!)
With a loud sound, the flying stick hit her forehead. Disabling her sense of balance and causing the little specter to fall on her back.
"Uuu…"
Straight away children flocked the downed royal, expressions of worry and fear etched on their young faces.
"Are you alright Minerva-chan!?" one of the female children asked, worriedly offering her arm in a gesture to help her up.
"...Hurts a bit… But fine…" her confirmation of health was followed immediately by a sigh of relief.
Grabbing the offered limb with her own, she then got up with the combination of her own and the helper's thew.
"Are you okay though?" The girl asked again "You got hit on the head, after all. You're not bleeding are you!?"
She wanted to say that such a thing would never hurt her. That her racial status gained her immunity to physical pain, and that the only reason she got hit was that she intentionally lowered her defense.
But again, this situation was a special case.
Minerva's capability of transforming between her child and teenage form is more than just a cosmetic switch. As when she uses the former, her status and abilities were warped to reflect that of normal, at least for that of a specter, child.
"I'm fine… It's alright…"
While her friend's worry only lessens by a small margin, Minerva's vocal insistence pushes her to relent.
"Okay… If you say so…"
That was supposed to be the end of it, at least she thought it was.
With prompt, the girl turned away from her and set her eyes on the opposite group, consisting of two boys and another girl.
"You idiots! Minerva-chan could have gotten hurt!"
Flinching under her shout the three could do little than to defend themselves.
"We're… sorry…" The eldest of them answered while the other two could do nothing but fearfully hid behind him.
"Sorry isn't going to cut it! What if it had hit her eye! What if..!"
"Nemu…"
Again the little ruler cut her friend midway.
"...It's alright… see…?" She parted her hair to expose her forehead, revealing a barely visible graze.
The now named Nemu could only blink, but she nonetheless relented with her berating. Even so, that does not mean that the offenders are off the hook.
"You three! Hurry and apologize to Minerva this instant!"
Of course, and thankfully for them all, they proceed to do just that.
"We're sorry Minerva-chan!"
"We've been very bad! Please forgive us!"
"We promise we won't do it again!"
Exactly because it came from a normal human child did she know that they meant it. Minerva didn't even need any of her skill to discern that they were truthfully sorry and utterly regret the mishap.
An accident happening in a children's little game.
"It's okay… my bad for being slow…"
At that moment, the air of solace of which had vanished without Minerva noticing returned. Setting free not only the children but also the onlooking adults who just happen to be in the vicinity of their trepidation.
While Momonga and Kyoko had requested the villagers of Carne to treat their daughter as they would any other child, the fact remains that Minerva is the daughter of their Saviors.
No matter how hard they tried, they can't judge her without bias. Not getting in her way and complying to her every request was the best they can do, so it was a blessing that the children weren't intimidated by her presence and treated her as one of their own.
Currently, the situation was as it finest, and it goes without a saying that everyone wanted to keep it that way.
"Minerva-sama." A motherly voice suddenly chipped in, causing the firstborn to turn around.
"Yuri." She addressed back, naming the maid who sticks out like a sore thumb in such a place.
"Hai. While I hate to intrude on your playtime, I'm afraid that that period is over."
"Dinner… Then..?" her guess earned her a nod, and seconds later, a series of groans.
"Eh...?"
"So soon...!?"
"But we want to play with Minerva more…"
Any other guardian of Nazarick would have instantly lashed out for such 'insubordination', and it was exactly because of that she was assigned the role. Yuri-Alpha's karma is that of good, a rarity among the ranks of Ainz Ooal Gown who emphasize the imagery of evil.
So unlike her many allies, Yuri is capable of empathy, and as the goal of Minerva's visit to Carne's village is that of social exposure, her rather positive view on the human race made her one of the few suitable candidates for the job.
As for the children's wishes, Minerva once again proves her adult quality by taking care of that.
"That's no good… Resting is important… We can always resume tomorrow…"
Since it came from the center of attention herself they have no choice but to oblige.
"Well… The suns going down after all…"
"And we don't want our food to get cold…"
"I guess there's always tomorrow…"
At that response, Yuri smiled. Minerva could have easily brushed them off in any way she wanted, but instead of that, she opted for the dialogue that appeases their worry. In other words, she's aware enough of their feelings to let them down easy.
While her colleagues might consider the mindset as a fatal weakness, Yuri knows that such a feature is in truth integral if one ever wishes to be a benevolent ruler and not a tyrant.
"Please come again tomorrow Minerva-chan!"
"We promise we won't be stupid again!"
It was the specter's turn to smile now.
"I will… Promise…"
And the beaming smile coming from all around almost convinced her that the sun hasn't set.
A series of handshakes and goodbyes later, Minerva was on her way with Yuri, waving her hand one last time to the flock of excited children.
"...I wonder if she'll come back tomorrow." One of them dejectedly muttered.
"She will!... I think…"
"We did hit her on the head after all…"
"...Maybe she hates us..?"
"B-but… she said…"
"Could she be lying…?"
It's odd how after mere moments of her departure they have already missed her so dearly.
"She'll come back." Nemu confidently proclaimed. "She promised after all."
And just like that, as if the sadness never overtook them, the children's smiles return.
Her words were more than enough, so all of them believed.
That's just who she is, who Minerva Ooal Gown is.
"Alright, it's almost night time! Everybody goes home! If we take too long the food is going to get cold!"
"Okay!/I will!/Alright!"
Uncomplicatedly, they dispersed and returned to their homes. Eager for the next day and the return of their new friends. Not knowing that the excitement goes both ways.
"It looks like you've made many new friends, Minerva-sama."
"I'm glad I did. It's been a long time since I'd had to make an acquaintance I thought I was going to fail…" The now grown-up heiress sighed "It was nerve-wracking… And they were only children."
The head-maid couldn't help but chuckle. "Many would claim otherwise, Ojou-sama. They would say children are the most honest and insightful of all."
"Hm... The conjecture certainly carries some weight…"
Either that or she's just that bad on Human communion. She had initially planned to use her charm and intellect to swoon the children into her followers, but after mere seconds of contact, it was she who faltered under social pressure. Because apparently, theorizing about human interaction does not help you deal with the real thing.
Upon her arrival, the children immediately flocked her like a moth to flames. Most likely due to the obvious heads-up regarding her status. Surrounded by that many people proves to be completely overwhelming, the only reason she wasn't reduced to a bumbling stuttering mess was that whatever words she wanted to voice simply died in her throat.
Salvation came in the form of Nemu Emmot. The girl, whom if she were not mistaken, was personally saved by her parents.
The coincidence didn't exactly convince her of the plausibility of karma, but it is one that she duly noted.
In an attempt to lower herself into the level of 'regular' children, the little specter had brought along a book of stories rather than the usual advanced reading materials. Her planned scenario is that of impressing the native children with her expanded verbal knowledge.
To summarize, Nemu pointing out of the book she was carrying allowed her to regain her footing, and it was smooth sailing after she learned that most children at the village were illiterate.
So reading a tale and two was all that she needed to do.
While she initially planned to spend the rest of the day soliciting her standing and making clear of the difference between her and her peers, the overall flow of things and the sheer honest enthusiasm allowed her to enjoy herself. Thus, one thing leads to another, and near the end of the day, she ended up participating in one of their merry games after spending half of the day exploring the village and learning of their mundane daily life.
"Everything is going rather normally, you wouldn't believe that they had just lost a largen number some time ago," Yuri commented to break the silence.
And that's exactly how things are. Perfectly normal despite the tragedy. A day like any other that is mundane incarnate where the old works, the young play, and the elderlies lament.
Some would consider such a display to be heartless, but Minerva thinks that this attests to human's drive for prolonged survival. This was a backwater village after all, and thus, its people have no choice but to rigorously work themselves to make ends mean for every single day.
So the fact that they managed to grit their teeth through the pain and continue doing so despite their loss, even if it is for the sake of their livelihood. This is only her personal opinion, but she honestly found such a thing to me remarkable beyond measure.
Especially in the children's part.
Sure they might simply bury the tragedy and sealed it away, and were probably encouraged by the adults to do so. Yet, it goes unsaid that all lost someone close to them or maybe even their parents. Such an unimaginable loss that will linger on for the rest of their lives, which might as well shape them in the future.
And after all that, they were still able to play and smile today. Holding on to the childish innocence that should have been erased by the unfair hand dealt by the world.
Whereas she, on the other hand, would simply curse the world and ceases to be should the same thing ever happen to her.
Perhaps this village is more than meets the eyes. One blessed by the greatest human merit of forgetfulness in its brightest incarnation.
"Well regardless of that, it is obvious now that this village is among our extension. A valuable foothold serving as our very first patch of conquest."
As proven by her very presence.
"I take it that you'll continue your visit then, Minerva-sama? Perhaps even make it a daily?"
"Indeed, one done to brighten this scene's prospect. I would never be able to do something as significant as becoming its saviors as mother and father do, but I could at least bring betterment."
"...And what are your plans if I were to rudely ask?"
As the heiress glanced at the head-maid, she can tell that her gaze had grown just a tad sharper.
"Education is a must, for starters, followed by proper training, although down the line…"
She let that last part hanging and left the rest for imagination. Minerva is expected to be a ruler, and while this whole trip had allowed her to connect further with her childish roots she has by no means grow soft.
"No. Nothing leaning towards Demiurge's preference if that's what you are asking."
Even if she has the fullest of intention in keeping the present populace fully human, at least for another generation or two. There was no empathy of any sort, no. Just the open-mindedness towards the possibility of human growth and nothing else. They have proven to be a strong force in the past after all.
Yuri did not voice it out loud, but it was easy enough to tell that she approves.
"Well, I suppose that's that for today then. Let's not keep Father and Mother waiting."
"Please forgive my insolence once again Minerva-sama, but there's one more thing…"
With an uncharacteristic 'Ah, I almost forgot about that.' Minerva snapped her finger. The gesture accompanied by a loud thud, coming from the sound of something hitting the ground.
"Uwah!" A voice shrieked girlishly, revealing that it was a female someone instead of something.
Another maid to be exact.
"That hurt su~..." she weakly protested.
Before anything else can be uttered, a black mass dropped from the same tree, the identity of the constrictor being a large onyx snake. Once it landed the beast then morphed into a hound-like animal with a stiff tail, its dark scales remaining as proof of its previous form.
This was a summoned beast and Minerva's companion plus reliable combat assist. A high-level magical-beast from YGGDRASIL that perfectly complements Minerva's array of skills, [The Black Hunter]. Highly renowned due to its prestige as a premier defensive summon has four forms, each having their significant niche and sporting spotless black scale to signify their identity.
Its lore which grants the beast an evil background in addition to their in-game presence made them the object of hatred for many. A difficult enemy with a high encounter rate in a crucial area for newer players, with an infuriating gimmick to boot. They became a foe in which their flavor text perfectly supplement their notoriety.
"Come, Set."
But this one named affectionately Set, excluding its hellish appearance, seems to be nothing more than a domesticated dog.
Answering the call, it happily approached its mistress. Minerva too returned to her true form to allow for easier affection display, both of her hands, skeletal and human, now playfully rubbing the hound's snout.
"Yosh, that's a good boy."
Meanwhile, the once captured maid had regained her bearings. Standing up and began to dust herself off.
"Uwah~, I'm being treated worse than a pet dog…" The victim fussed. But her pique lasted less than a second, as her expression quickly morphed to what can only be described as 'pleased' disgustingly. "This is a new one su~"
The head-maid could only shake her head at her younger sister's antics
"Lupusregina, couldn't you at least keep yourself in check in front of Ojou-sama?"
So was the identity of the now named maid, the second eldest of the Pleiades sisters, the werewolf Lupusregina Beta.
"Sorry Nee-san but I just can't help it su~, just now I was bound and gagged, and you know what it does to someone like me right~?" She innocently asked, prompting another sigh.
Hiding a brutal and vicious personality under her sociable cheerful one, she with the epithet of Sadist with Smiling Mask had always been the one to inflict pain on her enemies. So this experience of her being in the receiving end was something entirely new for her.
One that opens up unpleasant hidden traits from the looks of it.
Her original directive is to act as the guardian of Carner village, but currently, she is serving as a second layer of Minerva security. And as for the reason behind her literal suspension.
"All things considered you got what you deserve." Yuri sternly reprimanded. "Honestly, what were you thinking!? Attempting to attack Ojou-sama's playmates!?"
"I know-I know su~. It's bad to interrupt anything a supreme being is doing su~"
That certainly wasn't the point she wanted to prove, but for someone like Lupusregina, this is as good as it gets.
Lupusregina had almost commit slaughter under the pretext of retaliation against an act of harm directed at the firstborn of the Supreme Beings. The deed in question being the earlier event of which a stick accidentally hit Minerva.
The werewolf could prevent the attack and kill the offenders in a blink of an eye, only prevented from doing so by the heiress via her proxy.
"Just swear that you will never perform such fealty again. For your own sake of course."
'Yes-yes, I hereby swear su~"
Her nonchalance will become a constant source of headaches in the future it seems. One that Yuri must bear with.
Because even if she was unsuitable for the task personality-wise, she certainly has the needed strength should things ever take a turn for the worst.
Their primary duty was to protect Minerva, and as second in command, Yuri must be willing to do anything to do just that.
"Ah~, I wonder if Minerva-sama will do that again to me if I ask her su~"
And unless that possibility became real, Yuri had just assigned herself to the most stressful of tasks.
"Yuri, Lupu." The specter suddenly addressed the two, causing the maids to straighten up.
"Yes!" They answered in unison.
"If you are done with this then I would very much like to leave. I am the one who can open an [gate] after all."
The two maids were of course equipped with a one time use magic scroll of the same spell. But those were only to be used in case of emergency.
Hence it was the one whom they safeguard who has the capability of long-distance travel.
"Yes, Of course!" Yuri hastily replied. "Please forgive our insolence and wasting of time!"
The eldest apologized and bowed while her sister did the same in silence.
"Good." Was all the reply they got.
With their business here done Minerva snapped her bony finger and impossibly produced a snapping sound. A portal to Nazarick opening in front of her.
All that's left was to traverse the short distance and return home.
"And one more thing, Lupusregina."
But the heiress has something she wishes to voice before calling it a day.
The maid in question froze, and while her sister was right next to her, Lupusregina is smart enough to know that she is completely alone at the moment.
"Y-yes?" She stuttered in an uncharacteristic display of self.
As soon as the word left her mouth something seemed to take hold of her. Preventing the werewolf from doing anything else except remaining motionless in place.
A foreboding sense that she was about to be crushed. Slammed against the ground, stepped on, and subsequently, ground until she became one with the earth.
Minerva then turned around. Slowly approaching the maid with each step spelling out her end.
Once she was but a mere step away.
"If you wish to be treated like a dog, you need only to tell me no? After all, I listen and take the words of my attendant very seriously."
She cupped the maid's cheek with both of her hands, not unlike what she previously did with her pet hound.
With the sweetest of smiles, the heiress made clear of her intentions.
"And I will do my very best to accommodate them."
As quickly as she had begun, she let go of the maid. Who despite now being free was still too shell shocked to respond
"Now come along you two. I think we have burned away too much time."
Without looking back Minerva advanced to the portal. Forcing the two maids to sloppily follow her footsteps. Having yet to reel in fully from the experience.
While Minerva had meant every word and wishes for nothing but the best for her retainer, any normal person would instead view the declaration as a threat, especially due to the gestures.
Yuri was simply glad that it was all over, and that her sister was allowed to remain with them. Properly reminded of how powerful, stern, and forgiving the heiress is.
As for Lupusregina.
Red tints adored the spots where her princess's hands once were. Her expression is a textbook example of dazed.
Of course, it was nothing of the negative sort. Morphing quickly to a euphoric smile.
"Ah~. I can see why Shalltear-sama and Albedo-sama fell for her~" She muttered silently, allowing her murmur to go unnoticed.
Unbeknownst to Minerva, Lupusregina too will become a source of headache for her in the future. Though it was a different kind from one which Yuri worries about.
XxX
Staying Behind
Chapter VII: A Day in Life
XxX
Within one of the rooms inside of E-Rantel's adventurer guild, a series of 'Oh' and 'Ah' reverberated. The reason?
"Is something wrong?" The warrior, wearing a full-body jet-black armor asked.
"No-no, it's just that…" Peter Mauk, leader of the adventurer team, the Swords of Darkness, tried but failed to continue his words.
Instead, it was the team's magic caster and strategist, Ninya, who loudly addressed the elephant in the room.
"Your face…"
Momonga, currently under the guise of traveling warrior Momon, could only blink in surprise.
After a minor fiasco the previous day he, Naberal Gamma, and Fuitchi had finally made it to the adventurers guild. They had successfully overcome the language barrier courtesy of Momonga, the scenario being them picking a quest above their current rank.
His dialogue allowed them to navigate through without garnering embarrassment, but complications arise when another team abruptly offered them the chance of collaboration. Normally Momonga would simply refuse and go on with his endeavor, but the silver medals on each of their necks imply that this detour might be a worthwhile one.
They're not cutting corners of course, as all three are fully aware of how they are cutthroat above everyone else in the room. They were only following the procedure to avoid suspicion. Thus, the three of them will operate accordingly to the guild system. At least until they bolster significant fame within the nearby kingdoms.
Back to the topic at hand. The group they are currently conversing with is the adventurer team, the Swords of Darkness as mentioned above. A four-man balanced adventurer party, consisting of a warrior, ranger, magic caster, and druid. They might not be the strongest team around, but they won't turn down any relations that would allow his group to carry their mission faster, even if only slightly.
And right now, after introducing themselves to one another, 'Momon' is showing them his face as a show of goodwill, being the only one to wear armor and a full-body one at that. He assumes that it'll only be polite to do so, and considering how smooth things had been, Momonga didn't think that this of all things will be a show-stopper.
"Is something wrong with it?" 'Could it be that I'm too ugly?' was what Momonga inwardly thought.
His words seem to snap everyone out of their awkwardness. This time, the team's Ranger Lukrut Volve speaking up with gusto.
"The opposite Momon-san! You're handsome!"
At that, the others quickly nodded heartily, even the team's reserved druid Dyne Woodwonder.
Unlike many who would happily accept the praise, Momonga was instead rattled by the compliment. Even more so by its brazen nature. While he took good care of his appearance at his wife's urging, he was never one to transcend the realm of looking 'pretty good'.
At best he'd receive thanks for providing a foil to his wife's striking beauty and brash personality with his plain appearance and level-headedness, not that he minds because he was in complete agreement. Kyoko always looks good, and here, even when brandishing her spear right at a group of monsters while drenched in blood.
Adding more into the complexity was the fact that his current face was not his own. He is still using his Momonga avatar and remains to be an Overlord, a skeleton devoid of skin and flesh, relying on minor illusion to hide his race.
Thus the face that easily gathered the awe of the people of this world, whom in Momonga's own opinion was extremely attractive overall, was nothing more than an image based on his human character [Momon]. Explaining further why he doesn't feel any comfort from the praise.
He may voice the character, but it was not his face. And truthfully speaking, he only cast the illusion based on his other avatar out of intimidation. Naberal and Fuitchi's appearance was dashing, and to prevent looking out of place copied his limited looks based on a MOBAGE character he voiced in the real world.
It was only a minor detail as he would wear his helmet most of the time. But still…
"Is everything alright, Momon-san?"
"Oh yeah. It's just my appearance is rarely praised where we came from…" So he admitted whilst putting his helmet back on.
"Seriously? Even though it's such an amazing face?" Peter muttered under his breath.
"Maybe because they came from the south? Fu-san and Nabe-san both have Black hair and eyes after all. I heard they are even more hostile to foreigners more than we are." Even Dyne silently commented, not that it escapes Momonga's enhanced hearing.
"I see… so he ended up being treated like that…" Ninya also remarked.
"If so then I don't get them at all! Just looking at that face gives me the feeling that the impossible is possible!" Lukrut whispered a tad too loudly,
Yup, now he realized how much of a fluke this decision was. But it's not like he can easily take it back. Speaking of which.
'Now that I think about it, Kyoko doesn't seem to like this appearance very much…'
Yet another bothersome element that had been burdening his mind for some time now. As previously mentioned, Avatars of the staying members of Ainz Ooal Gown consist mostly of heteromorphic races except for Itsuki and Ranmaru.
He and Kyoko were an exception due to having two accounts, and despite sticking to their primary non-human ones most of the time would still use their secondary persona for leisurely purposes mainly that of consumption and sleeping.
The problem here lies in how they interact in their human form, which is practically non-existent by volume alone. During mealtimes, they would focus instead on their children, taking turns in addressing Minerva, Laufeyson, and Cranium respectively. Barely acknowledging the other unless necessary.
Not much is different for their bedroom interaction, with both of them once again sticking to their main characters and keeping to themselves. Heck, he can vouch that both of them avoid using their human form there until the very last second they decide to end the day.
They were never the most amorous of a couple, but he can tell that their romantic exchange has been sorely lacking especially under complete privacy. Ironic considering that the same thing was what granted them that exact solace.
'No, those are matters for another day. For now, I need to focus on the job at hand.'
Returning to the present time, Momonga found that the member of the Sword of Darkness has moved on from him and is currently interviewing his brother in law.
"So Fu-san is a bard? That's pretty rare."
"Oh? I was sure that a music player like me can be found anywhere." So he responded, sounding interested for the first time.
"Well there are certainly people who dabble with the instrument or spread stories, but becoming a combat bard is another thing on its own," Peter explained, at which Momonga began to listen in earnest.
"That's right! I don't get it, but around this part, you need to be talented just to have a shot at being one! And if you have the making of a heroic bard, the adamantine rank of the hand of a noble girl is not out of your reach!" Lukrut followed, his personality leaking.
"But it's far from easy of course. Even if one has the talent for the class itself, there's no guarantee that they'd have access to the material needed to further their craft. Not to mention, maintaining a great musical instrument can cost a lot more compared to some weapons." ninya further supplemented.
To Momonga, all of this was already a valuable source of information. While it's only natural that the people here would focus more on classes that brought forth immediate battle prowess, he did not expect the disparity to be this large.
'It's true that the bard class isn't the only one capable of casting buff and nerf. But compared to other classes, theirs are much more potent…' The Overlord inwardly lamented.
Does this simple fact elude the denizens of this world? Or are their circumstances so dire that they have yet to properly develop the arts as a whole?
Of course, Fuitchi is much more interested in the second implications.
"Then, it's safe to assume that the art itself is a privilege? And that it's not something anyone can afford?"
"...Yes. Unless you are an aristocrat it is unlikely that you'll ever get your hands on decent equipment or the education needed. And while some bards personally created their instruments, said method is prone to snags of its own…"
Again, it was Ninya who filled in the blanks. But unlike his earlier delivery, this one was enshrouded with an icy edge and dripping with venom.
"How sad. Music is something that everyone should enjoy. Nothing is sadder than a musician whose audience remained unchanged every day."
Oddly enough, Fuitchi's tactless words re-ignited the warmness from Ninya's part.
"I agree, Fu-san. Though at the end of the day, at least for when it comes to adventuring, it goes back to innate talents."
'That again, huh. Looks like it's not limited to combat aptitude only…' Momonga inwardly muttered.
'Innate talents' were similar to martial arts, they were special skills unique to this world and didn't exist in YGGDRASIL. About 1 in 200 possessed this special ability. An innate talent wasn't rare, but the special skills differ widely. There were strong and weak types, with plenty of variations.
Like predicting tomorrow's weather with 70% accuracy, strengthening summoned creatures, the ability to harvest plants a few days earlier, using the magic of dragons which existed in the past, and so on.
Since this power was determined from birth, there was no way to choose or change it. There were many cases of people unable to harness its full power. For example, the innate talent to increase the destructive power of magic, if the person was unable to use magic, then the innate talent would be wasted.
Only the lucky few can use their innate talent to its full extent. Aside from people with powerful innate talent, innate talents that could decide the entire life of a person was rare.
A warrior like Gazef Strolonoff didn't have innate talent, proving this point.
Those with a combat-oriented innate talent tended to choose adventuring as a career. That's why you could find many people with innate talents. The innate talent possessor before him just happened to be one of the lucky ones who could make full use of his.
"Ninya, your innate talent 'Magic Talent' allows you to learn a spell that would normally take eight years in just four years? I'm not a Magic Caster, so I'm not sure how great that is."
Lukrut again commented, bringing Momonga's attention to the aforementioned caster while simultaneously snuffing out Fuitchi's own due to the switch of topic.
Since Momonga had a magic-related class, he was curious and desired to collect this information. Getting abilities not available to the Great Tomb of Nazarick would be useful for his guild. If there was a way to steal this ability, it would be worth the risk even if he had to make enemies.
The ability to shorten learning time should be a type of level surpassing magic, [Wish upon a Star]. The two of them continue to converse, unaware of Momonga's focused gaze under his helmet.
"... I am lucky to possess this ability from birth, it allows me to take the first step for my dream. If it wasn't for this ability, I would be just a commoner spending his whole life busily."
The low voice contained gloom and heaviness. Peter tried to change the mood and spoke in a different tone:
"No matter what, you are a famous innate talent possessor in this city."
"But there is someone more famous than me."
"The leader of 'Blue Rose'?"
"That person is famous too, but I am talking about this city."
"You mean Bareare!"
If Momonga still has his eyes, he would've most definitely blink in surprise.
'Bareare… If I'm not wrong…'
"That would be the grandson of a famous pharmacist here, wouldn't it? He has an innate talent too?"
Peter nodded "His name is Nfirea Bareare, and his innate talent is the ability to use any magic item. Not just scrolls from a different magical system, but also items restricted to races other than humans. Items that are restricted to royalty should be fine as well."
Momonga secretly pumped his fist at his correct guess, despite the pleasure synchronizing with newfound worries. While he is already in the know about the well-established pharmacy and the name of its owner, only now did he learned that the same grandson possesses a remarkable innate talent.
The shop was run by an elderly woman and his grandson who is a prodigy in potion-making, the former being Lizzie Bareare and the already mentioned Nfirea Bareare. And it was through the name that Momonga managed to connect the dots.
The story of how he learned of them is as the following:
In a skirmish happening just yesterday between him and some rowdy adventurer, the Overlord accidentally broke a bottle of healing potion belonging to a bystander and was demanded to replace it. Said victim entitlement coming from how much she had set aside just to procure the item.
Nonchalantly, he gave her one of his healing potions from YGGDRASIL, having no use for it due to his racial status. And he would have remained unaware of his carelessness hadn't it been for Fuitchi's involvement, his brother in law informing him of how his reimbursement was alien to the people present.
The pianist learned so from the female adventurer's dialogue with the inn-owner, and how she was directed to the so-called best pharmacist, Lizzie Bareare. With words such as 'I've never seen such a potion before' and 'What potion is that' he has no choice but to ask Fuitchi to keep a lookout.
Among the things that he had decided to keep an eye for the most was the disparity between YGGDRASIL and this world and whether or not the game mechanics would double over this world's law of physics. With this being a case of the former.
After a stalking session that went a tad too well, Fuitchi fills in on how the potion is 'the ultimate potion' here despite its in-game worthlessness. Regardless, Momonga has now set his sight on the Barerae family. With this piece of information reinforcing his decision.
"The job is to hunt the monsters around the city."
"Hm? Sorry for being a bit out of it but, Monster Extermination?"
"Ah, it's not really about exterminating monsters. We're hunting monsters and depending on their strength, the city will pay a suitable reward through the guild. What is this kind of activity called in Momon-san's country?"
So that's it. Momonga finally understood why Peter said this wasn't a job: according to YGGDRASIL game knowledge, or his wife's eternal distaste, this activity would be called 'farming monsters'
"This is something we have to do to earn a livelihood."
The druid - Dyne interrupted with a low voice. Lukeluther joined in:
"It's not just a livelihood for us, it reduces the danger to the people around us, ensures the safety of traveling merchants, and secures the nation's tax collection. No one will lose out of our actions."
"Most guild and nations do this, but it was unheard of 5 years ago, isn't that surprising?"
Everyone on the team nodded in agreement with Ninya's words. They discussed among themselves, giving Momonga no chance to join in. It would be too strange to know nothing about this country, so he decided to shut up and listen while Fuitchi and Naberal simply tune them out due to disinterests.
It further devolves to a conversation regarding the 'Golden Princess' and the team's mage own contempt for Nobles in general, continuing for a while until Peter faked a cough and said:
"...We are going too far off-topic! These aren't things we should be saying in front of Momon-san, Nabel-san, and Fu-san who will be fighting alongside us."
Peter took out a parchment and laid it on the table, it appeared to be a map of the nearby region. Information about villages, forests, and streams was marked slapdash on it. From the center of the parchment, he dragged his finger to the forest in the south.
"We are mainly hunting monsters in the forest near the borders to the Slane Theocracy. The only monsters who can use ranged weapons to attack from the rear will be goblins."
"But the rewards for disposing of such a weak monster isn't high."
"...Won't powerful goblins show up?"
As far as Momonga knew, YGGDRASIL's goblin had all sorts of names and ranged from level 1 to 50. Their differences in strength varied widely, you couldn't just lump all goblins together. It could be disastrous if you weren't careful.
Was their relaxed attitude due to their conviction that high-level goblins won't turn up, or were the goblin in this world only that powerful?
"There are powerful goblins, but they won't show up in the forest we are heading to. The strong goblins are usually tribal leaders, they won't activate the whole tribe."
"The Goblins also know the human's area of influence, so they understand attacking en masse would be disastrous. Especially the powerful goblins that are intelligent."
"Nabel-san can use rank 3 spells, so there are no problems even if we do encounter them, right?"
"I see. But I have to remind you, some goblins can use rank 3 spells as well. Can you tell me what kind of monsters we might encounter for reference?"
The Sword of Darkness members turned to Ninya. Understanding their intentions, he assumed a teacher's expression and began his explanation
Unlike earlier, the two teams now properly connect under the pretext of the upcoming collaboration. And despite the oddities coming to form Naberal's harsh rejection of Lukrut's advance and Fuitchi's lack of participation, they manage to smoothen things enough to properly begin their undertaking.
After returning to the guild, they found the number of adventurers inside had increased. Several groups could be seen loitering near the parchments, but almost all of them were focused on one young man.
The blond, young man was talking to a receptionist and the other two were also listening carefully. If business was great when Ainz came just now, the situation had taken a 180-degree turn.
The receptionist's face— no, her mouth was in the shape of an O. It was an expression of shock and she was looking right at Momonga.
'That's him, Nii-san. The innate talent possessor and the potion-maker.' Fuitchi quickly informed through [Message] before abruptly shutting down their connection.
Momonga once again finds himself thanking his undead nature, otherwise, his surprise will be for all to see.
'What is he doing here? No, from context alone it should be…'
Whatever his reason was it relates to the potion incident. Perhaps he's trying to gain information or connection?
As the receptionist walked towards him Momonga could already tell that this is the preceding before an onslaught of unplanned occurrences. None of which will let him clock out early no doubt.
Facing the inevitable, the Overlord silently groaned.
'One thing after another. Seriously what am I supposed to do?'
XxX
'Seriously, what am I supposed to do? It's always one thing after another'
So was Suzuki Honda's, although he is now known as Torihiki, thoughts at the 'play' in front of him.
"What kind of food is this!"
A hysterical, high-pitched cry, followed by the sound of cutlery clattering against the plates, rang throughout the surroundings. Several people in the restaurant turned their gaze toward the girl that was throwing a tantrum.
The girl's appearance was beautiful, to the point where the word 'beautiful' would be inadequate to describe her. Her beauty was even enough to rival the most beautiful in the kingdom, also known as the "Golden" princess. Even her anger only added to her charm.
Not only that, even though she was so noisy, her every movement was filled with grace and brimmed with elegance. Surely, she must be the daughter of a noble from another country. Nay but both a highborn and wealthy noble. She impatiently lifted her long luscious hair and stared. The whole table was almost filled to the brink with plates full of food.
Inside the basket were steaming, heavenly soft, white bread fresh from the oven. On the palate, there were chunks of lightly grilled meat that was so juicy and tender it made one's mouth water. The meats were complemented with aromatic, grilled, sweet buttered corn and creamy, scrumptious mashed potato as a side at the dishes in front of her.
The combination greatly excited one's sense of hunger and appetite. There was also a tasty salad made with grilled marinated tenderloin on top of vegetables so fresh it was as they were right from the garden. The tantalizing and aromatic fragrance of tangerine could also be smelled from the salad dressing.
These were the best and most extravagant dishes made by the restaurant inside the most luxurious inn of the walled city Re-Lantier, the "Shining Golden Pavilion"... Their ingredients were guaranteed to be at their freshest through the use of the spell [Preservation]. Naturally, all their cooks were first-class elite chefs.
These were cuisines only the nobles and the wealthy may savor. However, the girl was not impressed by these artful and superb dishes.
Although, having consumed Kabuto's handiwork daily, Torihiki supposed that the comparison wasn't that far off by their standard.
"This doesn't taste good at all!"
He only remained silent as the charade continues. Playing the role of tranquil fury while his partner dominates the center stage. And considering the surprised and stunned looks from everyone else, she is doing a mighty fine job.
Currently infiltrating one of Re-Estize Kingdom's fortress cities, E-Rantel. Torihiki, Solution Epsilon, and Sebas Tian are acting under the guise of specific roles to gather information and form connections with influential people.
He took on the task at his brother's insistence, accepting it out of his curiosity of the new world as well as the inherent responsibility of possessing actual humanity, his current physical condition aside.
After all, his share of the load was by no means a heavy one, especially with Sebas around. And his experience in dealing with terrible customers had prepared him enough for this world's batch of nobles, merchants, and the likes almost too perfectly.
Seriously, he is just a guy who is supposed to help others find their books. Sure, he might be able to misdirect people into thinking that they are getting exactly what they want, usually into purchasing a box set or a full-color version of what they initially come for, but that doesn't automatically make him a master trickster. Right?
Not that he cared about the people's well being or anything, no. He is simply disappointed in this world's definition of cunning.
It was his quirk that he tried to hide in the previous world. Of his distaste for the typical good and preference towards the intellectual tinged with moral ambiguity. In short, he felt no remorse when he successfully tricked someone. Only satisfaction or disappointment based on his expectations.
And it looks like he expected too much from people of this world.
He imagines a world where life and death are determined by wit and imagination. Where a single mistake is more than enough to end one's existence and for shrewdness to reign supreme even above strength and virtue.
Instead, he found only lazy Noble and barely competent merchants. Both of which he could easily manipulate towards his desired directions. Which, bearing in mind his previous life, was a danger flag for this entire world.
All is going too well in his part, and whether or not is that a good thing or a bad completely eludes him.
'Wait, no. Instead of that shouldn't I be much more worried about "that"?'
"My fiancé and I cannot continue to stay at this ramshackle town, prepare to leave immediately!"
Yep, that was the thing he should be concerning himself with.
As an extra precaution, any member venturing outside is to be accompanied by another player or a pair NPC with both their level exceeding 60. This mandatory requirement limits their range of chaperone selection, the selectable option being only that of floor guardians and the Pleiades Combat Maids.
Secretly, the player uses this to their advantage and earned themselves a modicum of privacy. The parameter preventing lower level minions from being involved and thus watching their every move.
Currently, Torihiki's security detail consists of Sebas Tian and Solution Epsilon as mentioned above. And while the former was picked out of affinity relating to their mission the latter's presence held a much more personal overtone.
'Godamnit Herohero what were you thinking!'
Suzuki Honda was a bookstore worker in his previous life, one that after working himself from the ground up manages to co-own a literary establishment of his own.
Among one of his decision in running the premise was hiring an individual with zero prior experience who applied for work to escape his daunting work in a Black Company. The usual threat of disrepute being ineffective due to the lack of relation between the two fields.
He knew that the person in question was desperate enough to audition despite the obvious disadvantage, meaning that his working environment must be so harsh that he's willing to risk it all. Hence, he pulled some strings and give him a position, reasoning that his gratefulness would result in a permanent, even if incompetent, employee.
The gamble falls through as the worker, empowered by gratefulness, worked himself around the clock to the utmost. Ironically to the point not unlike his previous experience. It was a total victory since they were only starting, one of which solidify his trust in psychological manipulation.
Around the same time, a member of the Ainz Ooal Gown notable for his irregular login began to appear more frequently. He is known also to rant about his workplace rather negatively, but his personality took a drastic turn alongside his attendance.
He began to speak rather fondly of his new workplace and even sung praises for his new boss as well as colleagues. Proclaiming that while his income had decreased significantly, his newfound freedom easily makes up for it.
Momonga eventually prods about his new job out of personal curiosity, and after hearing his colleague's description of his new workplace first hand easily deduces that he is working for his elder brother.
From that point on, things escalate.
Said fellow's name was Herohero, an Elder Black Ooze and one of the last few remaining members of Ainz Ooal Gown who continues to play despite YGGDRASIL's impending deletion. And he has no qualms in showing his real-life gratitude in-game every chance he got.
In an act that blurs the line between kindness and invasion of privacy, in addition to reality, Torihiki began to receive myriads of gifts, emails, and invitations from his brother's friend frequently. The rarity of the foremost ranging from miscellaneous to ridiculously rare.
It certainly jeopardized his mission, but he still appreciates the deed nonetheless.
Torihiki didn't mind the gesture at all, even when others perceive it as rather odd. This was the internet after all and everyone is free to do whatever they want. And it's not like he was being stalked within the game... At least to his knowledge.
Bottom line, he never really paid that much heed to Herohero's karmic payback. And oh, how that stance of his bit him in the ass...
"But Ojou-sama, it is already dusk—"
the old butler behind her, who had initially stood motionless informed. Keeping his posture and expression unchanged. Even after she turned around and stared harshly at him, he still kept firm. It was as if he had only one expression.
"Shut up! Do as I say, is that clear!"
That should be the end of it. Sebas was to comply with her unreasonable request and put their elaborate plan into motion. Pushing the very same people they wish to trap to unknowingly do most of the work for them.
At least that's how it'd go if he wasn't here.
"You agree with me, don't you!? Dear!?"
With affection that contrasts her earlier spiteful showcase. Even the most oblivious of person would be caught off guard by the transition, leaving them wondering just who or what could earn the admiration of such otherworldly beauty.
Believe it or not, the answer was him.
All eyes immediately turn to him. Dressed in an ornate black suit beautifully and striking as if created from darkness itself. Appearing as a handsome man instead of a skeleton thanks to yet another one of Herohero's memento.
Playing the role of a level-headed character to complement Solution's part, the quiet fury whose absence of action speaks even louder than his companion. If the leading woman was a shining light whose brilliance shines brightly, then he was surely the darkness itself molded into an august form.
Or at least that was how his servant would put it. Anyhow, he is to be the deciding voice in this scene.
Letting of the fork he had been playing with the whole time, Torihiki lazily leans back to his chair. Closing his eyes for emphasis before dramatically opening them.
"Do as she says, Sebas. In case you've forgotten, her words are mine as much as mine hers."
He expected to receive funny looks from everyone around. With such a cheesy line that could only be found in books or said only by someone as lovestruck as his brother is, there would surely be nothing but contempt for such a tactless display.
Yet, he was only correct in the slightest.
Murmurs of admiration quickly rang throughout the restaurant, everyone else keeping their tongue doing so out of obvious envy. Thus proving that his brother and sister in law's antics was that of a model couple in this world.
And Solution's face? Nothing short of absolute euphoria.
"Understood, Oji-sama. I shall make preparations for us to leave immediately." Sebas obediently bowed to him before turning to Solution.
"Please forgive my insubordination, Ojou-sama."
At the butler's bowing form the lady only huffed.
"Humph! If you get it then hurry and make haste, Sebas!"
She stood up with obvious dissatisfaction, but in another inconsistent display hastily moved to her partner's side and affectionately intertwined her arms with his right.
The fondness secretly goes both ways, as the smallest of a smile appeared on the man before his face shifted back again into a tranquil expression.
"Take care of the rest, Sebas. And be sure to make up for this display of ours."
Despite his words' sympathetic nature, Torihiki didn't even bother to await a reply. Waltzing out of the restaurant as if he hadn't done anything wrong. Rude as it may be, that was the kind of image they were aiming for.
A strong pair capable of fixing any blunder through financial means.
"And a single scene is enough to give such an impression?" inside their suite, Laufeyson who is tagging along asked.
"More than enough really, you wouldn't believe how easy it is to build an impression from the ground up when you're attractive and rich."
So Torihiki answered. No matter the world, some truth remains constant after all.
The Soul Taker then brought one of his bony fingers and scratched his skull with it, finding an odd sense of comfort in the grating sensation compared to when blood and meat were still present.
It's just like what Momonga told him. Their default avatar is much more comfortable to use even if they're non-human.
"I still think it'd be easier if we just display how much we have from the beginning. Perhaps throwing a banquet and invite everyone in this city?"
"Oh, that's certainly one way to flaunt your wealth. But others would likely twist the knife and call you wasteful instead."
"I'm not sure I follow? How is it any different from what you just did, Uncle?"
"It's different in the sense that 'I was cleaning up after my mess'. Had I declared out of the blue that I'd pay for everyone's meal for no apparent reason, things would have gone very differently~."
To make a good impression in wealth spending it out of goodwill is the worst possible strategy. Only jealousy and unsettlement would come when someone sees others exhibit charities that exceed their capability.
Unless they are planning to swoon people on the receiving end, then they must use their money 'selfishly' in a flashy fashion.
"So even Solution's act was part of the plan?"
"Bingo! Got it in one. That way, it'll look like we were helping them from the mess we make ourselves. It's another story since we are cleaning up after ourselves."
"But wouldn't it be bad for us since the problem was our own making? Wouldn't that instead result in a narrative where we are unreliable."
"A good point and that's exactly where looks come in."
"...I don't follow?"
"Well to keep it short, the more handsome or beautiful you are the easier it is for people to let you get away with murder."
"...That doesn't make sense at all…"
"As bizarre as it sounds that's just how things go. Humans are weird like that, especially in a setting like this..."
As long as they appear to be 'one of them' it'd be easier to capitalize on comfort. Whether it is race, gender, or even economical divide, all of them can be utilized to control what others see and perceive.
"Impression huh… I don't think I'll ever get the hang of it…" Laufeyson dejectedly admitted before slumping on his seat.
"That's just how learning goes. Did you think it'll be that easy? It took me years and years to even get a grasp for this kind of thing."
Laufeyson's presence as a backseat observer was granted so he can observe Torhiki at work. While Minerva is only socially awkward, Laufeyson is downright inept when it comes to guessing the intent of others.
Further consideration reveals that he seems to display the combination of his parent's flaws, exhibiting what appears to be Kyoko's lack of tact in tandem with Momonga's habit of presuming the worst.
In short, Laufeyson's thought process is one where he not only often misread the situation but also an insensitive one that might inadvertently offend the other party should it be voiced. The worst kind of frank intellection if he were to simplify.
Hence, the solution is to have him educated on how to get others to do what he wants instead. Something that Torihiki has an obvious knack for.
'But again, I'm just a bookseller/minor swindler. Are the people here just that clueless?'
"Well since it took you that long then I'll relish in my slow pace because it's only natural,"
The comment snapped Torihiki out of his thought as well as hitting him with a sense of Deja Vu.
"...You are your father's son huh…"
Appearance-wise the first-son looks nothing like Momonga, which is only natural considering their separate race. But, his mannerism and other non-physical traits. As someone related by blood to the person in question, the boy was almost an exact copy of his younger brother.
It was a noticeable trait among the NPC in general. How their interaction with one another greatly resembles their aforementioned creators almost like a lingering imprint.
Thus the million-dollar question, how far does the ingrain go, and are the NPC aware of it?
"Please forgive me for interrupting Laufeyson-sama's education, Dear. But I've prepared tea from Nazarick."
A chill runs through his bare spine as the sweet voice entered his non-existent eardrum. The dread vanishing soon after thanks to his racial suppression of emotional outbursts.
If the patrons inside the restaurant could see this scene, they would be bewildered and deeply surprised, because the girl currently serving them tea while wearing an outfit resembling a maid was none other than the hot-tempered girl throwing a tantrum earlier.
Her expression was well composed, it was as if her hysteria back then had been just an act and her manner was befitting of greeting someone of a higher position. Another intriguing difference was that one of her eyes was closed—her left eye. She did not do so while inside the restaurant.
"...Thank you, Solution. You really shouldn't have."
"On the contrary in it my pleasure, Dear. After all, to personally serve you is among my duty as your betrothed."
And that, Ladies and Gentlemen, is the sole quandary preventing Torihiki from enjoying his new life to the fullest.
"So it was not an act?"
"Only partially, Laufeyson-sama. While it is true that I was playing my part, I was truly displeased at how those worthless beings dare to serve those heap of trash they call food to my dearest. I certainly let some of my anger slip, but it was nothing close to my true wrath..."
Her expression then morphed to that of a 'monster', so horrendous it was in terms of intention that her beauty was overshadowed as a result. And any men looking at her right now, wouldn't be able to tell the difference between her and a demon.
"If it were up to me they'd suffer for a good while…"
Knowing that it might end up like that if this conversation goes on for too long, Torihiki quickly interrupted.
"There's no need for that…" The Soul taker paused, swallowing hard before uttering the one word that would defuse the situation "Dear."
With that, the anger which should only be quelched by the blood of others was instantly extinguished. It was an impossible sight even more than her previous switch, where joy washes away hatred that should have lasted for days with naught but one word.
"It's just a meaningless display through and through. We never have any intention to dine here after all, so there's no need to pay too much heed to the whole thing."
"..Even so, Torihiki-sama, for them to receive you only to serve those heap of scarps…"
"Come now, don't be like that. We were here to spend money after all. What's another coin or two in our grand scheme?"
The maid stays silent for a bit after that, clearly contemplating his words with all of her thoughts. Finally, she let out a sigh and nodded.
"Understood, Torihiki-sama. I will try and not let my own emotion get the better of me."
"And I thank you for that. Doesn't mean that you should suppress it or anything, it'd hate it of you pretend not to be yourself because of me."
Solution noticed Torhiki's thoughtful expression, and changed her composed face for the first time to an embarrassed smile:
"I thank you for such consideration, dear. Truly I am blessed to have my being given to a man as attentive as you…"
Again, Torihiki inwardly cursed Herohero wherever he was. His inert racial ability suppressing his emotion being the only thing preventing Torihiki from screaming at the top pf his non-existent lungs.
The last gift his employee had given him before the world's end was none other than the youngest of the Pleiades six stars, the NPC right in front of him, Solution Epsilon.
Just like what Momonga and Kyoko did with Albedo, Herohero had tweaked his creation's background story. And while the guardian's overseer affection was an unforeseen side effect from Tabula Smaragdina's design to their addiction, the Elder Black Ooze was much more direct in formulating his character background.
The fact was uncloaked one night during dinner, where the girl in question is insistent on serving him exclusively. And after learning the reason behind her peculiar behavior, with him almost getting killed by Kyoko and Itsuki for being a pervert, the group of players investigates the matter further. Coming into the conclusion that Herohero is indeed the sole perpetrator and that Torihiki was not at all involved.
'Godamnit! I know you probably mean well and couldn't possibly see this coming! But still!'
The words 'engaged to Torihiki whom both she and her creator love and respect very much' on the slime's flavor text serving as the undeniable proof that spares his life and keeping player immortality a mystery.
But even if they admitted it to be a problem, it's not like there's a sure solution. At least not morally unquestionable one with the absence of her creator.
They can easily alter Herohero's 'modification' with Momonga's authority as a guild master but with the risk of killing Solution's personality, it seems unlikely that they will ever opt for that road.
So they were left with no choice but to shelf the problem and bear with it. With him being forced to swear not to lay a hand on the aforementioned assassin slime, not that he has any intention of doing anything funny of course.
Even he must admit that she's the perfect incarnation of 'his type'.
Whether it is a complete coincidence or another part of Herohero's machinations of gratefulness, Solution's primary human form practically embodies Torihiki's image of beauty.
But again, he has no intention of engaging the NPC romantically as of now. As a man, though whether or not does a skeleton counts as one was beyond him, he has enough sense not to hit on a girl way~ out of his age range.
A lifesaving decision considering Kyoko and Itsuki were around.
'Honestly, this would've been over way faster if you were here. I guess that's one on me…'
The mastermind responsible for this fiasco had logged in during the final hour of the game. Traversing the great tomb of Nazarick one last time before conversing with Momonga and finally logging off just before Kyoko arrived.
His younger brother had theorized that he might have been sent to the New World too considering the barely existing interval between his online time and their transportation, but this was nothing more than a wild theory.
He, on the other hand, was much more interested in why he logged off in the first place.
'Most likely because of that project everyone's is working hard on…'
It was an unpleasant coincidence, but their bookstore was planning an event of considerable size. Thus, he and his workers have been put through the wringer for some time now. And of course, Herohero pushes himself a tad harder than everyone else, explaining why he had been exhausted when he was with Momonga.
It was only thanks to him that their workload as a whole, allowing him as a higher-up to make for a leisurely time, and of course, making it here.
He normally wouldn't give it too much of a thought, but it was a real shame that he was involved in preventing one of their own to make the jump.
'Or am I?'
Perhaps it was even more bizarre for them to think that everyone is the same as them.
Torihiki doesn't want to badmouth any of his real friends, but honestly? They are not the most normal people around.
Momonga and Kyoko, whose love for this world easily exceeds that of their homeworld. Ranmaru and Itsuki, who had accomplished everything and are taking their stay here as a reward of some sort. And while he hates to be put together with that asshole of a musician, Torihiki himself and Fuitchi, both persons undoubtedly filling the criteria of having a screw loose.
It was miraculous that they all made it here, but the shared dynamic was that of those who don't want to go home.
But what if someone came along and wishes to do just that?
Some of their members would take their side, but others unquestionably began to search for a way back home, Blue Planet and Touch Me being prominent of the former and the latter respectively.
So what will happen if one choice would forcefully omit the other? Not to mention the many possibilities surrounding everything like temporal differences and alternate universes.
Taking all of that into account, their plans of world domination might not be the craziest thing.
A series of knocks and brought him back to reality, his apparent contemplation escaping his nephew and fiance's notice.
"Enter." He answered, and without delay, the door opened revealing Sebas.
"Pardon my intrusion." The exalted butler bowed, displaying the greatest modicum of respect.
Closing the door he was met with a pair of nods and deep bow.
Sebas looked around the luxuriously furnished room. Of course, if one were to compare this room to Nazarick's 9th level, the Royal Suite, this room would hold no charm at all. Of course, that wasn't a surprise since he simply picked the wrong object to compare it with.
He set his eyes to the corner of the room and found that the luggage was already packed and gathered. They were able to leave immediately if they wished to do so.
"You should've let me pack instead."
Since they weren't prepared by Sebas, Solution must have done it all by herself after she left early. Or so he thought.
"It was the least I can do Sebas, so there's no need to worry. Compared to everyone else here I haven't done anything after all, and would very much like to contribute even if just a little."
Laufeyson was the one who replied, revealing also that he was the one responsible for the menial task's completion. Of course, this leaves Sebas shocked and speechless, even if the feelings can only be seen in his eyes. But Torihiki felt as if they had wasted too much time.
Snapping his finger, he pulled the butler out of his stupor and began:
"As much as I enjoy the rare moments where your facade is broken Sebas, I'd like to move things along if you don't mind."
The issued order further help the butler to regain control over his outburst, Sebas quickly breaking down to a kneeling position as if it was natural.
And for them, servants created by the Supreme Beings, existing only thanks to the kindness of their whim, it is very much so.
"Understood, Then, I will go meet with Shalltear-sama who should already be waiting eagerly in the carriage, and inform her on the time of departure."
Torihiki nodded before curtly turning to Solution.
"And our unfortunate accomplice is he doing exactly what we predicted?"
Solution lifted her hand and pressed it against her closed eye.
"Yes, everything is proceeding just as we had expected. he's currently meeting with a shabby-looking man. Would you like to hear what they're saying, Dear?"
"No need for that, from the description alone, it's obvious that's everything is going accordingly."
It should be a piece of good news all things considered, but if he had any muscle or skin, Torihiki would be frowning.
After all, on what universe would everything go according to plan without turning into a clusterfuck at one point?
"Dear, if you would please consider a selfish request of mine…"
"Hm? As long as it shouldn't jeopardize the plan then I'll consider it. What is it Solution?"
Solution suddenly twisted her expression. The corners of her eyes drooped and the edge of her lips curled up. Though the expression was similar to a smile, it was twisted further than humanly possible. It was like taking a smiling face made of clay and twisting the features together.
"...When everything is over, would you allow me to take care of that man?"
At that exact moment, Torihiki's 'eyes' dimmed in light. And had he have any human features, everyone would've been able to tell that he was squinting his eyes suspiciously.
There shouldn't be any problem with giving you only one person..."
"Really? That's wonderful!"
Solution showed a smile brimming with joy. That kind of cheerful sunny expression without a shred of gloom could charm any onlooking person.
"But why are you so interested in this man, if I may ask?" Torihiki wanted to add 'as your groom', prevented from saying that by
The implication only lit her flame of joy further, and with a smile even more sincere as well as beautiful than the last, containing a childlike innocence like a kid looking forward to the next big event, she answered.
"I think he said he couldn't wait to enjoy me. It's a rare chance, so I plan to enjoy him properly too."
And that was the third time of the day Torihiki's racial suppression kicked in, only in a much higher octave than the previous two and for a completely different reason.
He was pissed.
"...Under one condition…"
Solution blinked, as did everyone else in the room.
"I want a specific part of him. Don't worry about meat or the likes, because what I want…"
Torihiki then stood up as if to add dramatic flair into his pause.
"...It is much less tangible, even if it does last for a very very long time."
Both Sebas and Laufeyson instinctively swallowed, a frightening chill running down their spine.
They had always found the man to be lax, friendly by all means, and never unpleasant. Compared to Momonga who is a regal ruler, then he would be a noble whose liveliness represents his cunning also.
But that was only because he hid his dark side very carefully, one that they only now caught a glimpse of.
Torihiki's undead race was that of the [Psychopomp] specializing in inflicting debuff on the enemy under the lore of stealing their souls and weakening their enemies' being.
And here, his story had turned into reality. Allowing him to forcefully take away souls of the living for him to toy with for all eternity.
It wasn't hard to guess what his intention was. And while Sebas and Laufeyson felt the slightest of sympathy for the literal poor soul, the gesture's effect was completely the opposite for Solution Epsilon.
"...Yes, dear. It will be my utmost pleasure to share my quarry with you…"
With an even brighter smile, she disregards the difference in their standing and intertwined her arm with Torihiki's. The Soul Taker being taken aback for a second before responding in kind.
"Well then let's not keep our accomplice waiting and get this show on the road, Sebas."
At the mention of his name, Sebas quickly and easily picked up the largest luggage with a single hand.
"Sorry for leaving you out of this Laufeyson, but this next part is a bit dangerous and I'm not sure your mother would approve."
Torihiki addressed his nephew, who only shook his head in response.
"I understand, Uncle. Truth to be told just being here is already nerve-wracking enough for me…"
Uncle chuckled. "Guess we'll work on that next then. Wish us luck."
"For you, I'm sure you won't need any." After bowing one last time Laufeycon then turns around and raised his right arm. "[Gate]."
A swirl of space appeared in front of him following his one-word chant. This was the tenth tier transportation spell named simply gate, allowing travel of a large number of people over great distances. It had no limits on distance and a 0% chance of teleport mishaps. It is considered to be the highest tier of teleportation magic.
"I'll see you tomorrow!" Torihiki shouted a tad too late as his nephew's form disappeared. Leaving the three of them alone.
With one last nod, the Soul Taker began again:
"Alright, that's wrapped up. Now let's get this show on the road!"
Leaving for the next phase of their plan, the three unknowingly traversed towards a major turning point.
XxX
Oh Lord forgive me for taking so long, but College was brutal and the pandemic ironically helped me get the time I need to continue this story, I WILL NEVER ABANDON THIS DAMNIT! I LOVE THIS STORY TOO MUCH
Anyway, I regained my footing and is making this story my official center of focus. Maybe there will be another project alongside this, but this Story will always be my number 1 priority.
Also, I'm currently having an extended semester break as of now and will try my best to finish vol 2 and 3. Sorry to burst your bubble, but updates will most likely remain inconsistent due to the matter of quality.
I guess that is all for now. Voidwalker77 signing out.
CIAO!