Overlordly broken

by oblivon2991

"Everything has a beginning has an end" as the saying goes. In the last day of the popular VRMMO named YGGRADASIL in the notorious guild named Ainz Ooal Gown not only Momonga remained to upkeep and manage the guild. There was an another member who helped him and stayed with him until the very end. Let's find out what happens next. (Completed. Complete rewrite coming when ready)

15. Adventuring is fun! Right?

Thank you for reading my fanfic and giving me a chance.

My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.

I would like to thank the excellent job what the Skythewood translator team done with the light novel translation.

Without their hard and persistent work, I surely couldn't write this story.

Please review it I know I will make mistakes what I will intend to correct and try to learn from my mistakes and improve myself.

Thank you!

Now let's continue our little story!

---

The ninth floor of the Great Tomb of Nazarick. This floor had many rooms of various types. It goes without saying that these included Guild Members' and NPCs' rooms, but also included imitations of the major communal baths, cafeterias, beauty salons, clothing stores, grocery stores, fitness salons, nail salons and numerous other types of facility rooms.

The creation of these rooms had no actual significance for gameplay. It was because the players here had an attachment to these things, or perhaps due to the players' pursuit of an ideal city, or perhaps a longing for these features due to the poor working conditions in real life.

Within these rooms, there was one particular place whose manager was the Great Tomb of Nazarick's deputy chef. Although his ability would typically be used in the cafeteria, according to certain days of the week and time of the day he would come to this room to help out Zero. Esdeath creation. But because he was outside with Demiurge on a mission. He had been assigned the task alone until Zero's return.

The room was designed in the concept of a bar with few regular customers and was illuminated with soft, gentle light.

There was a shelf lined with alcohol behind the counter and eight chairs. Although there were only these features, it was sufficient for a quiet tasting. The deputy chef thought of this space as his castle, and it gave him immense satisfaction and fulfillment

However, the atmosphere of the place also relied upon customers having refined taste. He realized this minutes after today's first customer was welcomed in.

"Glug, glug, glug, phew—"

Making a sound like that, that person downed his drink.

While wiping the glass, he thought to himself: "for people who drink like that, there are more suitable places."

In fact, the ninth floor also had standard rooms and tavern facilities, so there was no necessity for those who drank like that to come to this bar.

The deputy chef struggled to keep his face from contorting at the sight of the person chugging down the approximately 500ml beer mug and then slamming it onto the counter.

"One more!"

Responding to the customer's request, the deputy chef injected a continuous stream of Polish distilled vodka, and then injected a shot of blue food coloring.

He then gently presents the cup.

"This drink is called 'Lady's Tears.'"

The customer looked at the glass with suspicion. After being casually informed of this name, and because she did not see the cocktail mixing process, the client then revealed an expression of gratitude.

"Ah, does the spreading blue color symbolize the tear?"

"Yes, it is just as you say."

He lied through his teeth.

The woman grabbed the cup, placed it beside her mouth and drained it in one gulp like one would with a glass of milk after a shower.

With no hesitation, she slammed the empty cup on the counter like with her previous drink.

"Huu, feeling a little tipsy~."

"You drank too fast, so it cannot be helped. How about retiring a little early tonight?" inquired the deputy chef.

"...No, I do not want to go back."

"Is that so..."

While wiping the glass, he felt annoyed by the woman's gaze.

"Wanting to say something, yet unwilling to speak out, that is why women are so troublesome. Gentlemen are more suitable for this kind of establishment, not annoying women. Barring women from entering… is impossible, it would be too disrespectful to the Supreme Beings. I messed up this time."

The one who invited her was none other than himself. This was the result of him greeting her out of concern on the ninth floor upon seeing her distraught appearance. He now regretted his actions, but since he had offered to be a host, it was also necessary for him to display etiquette as a bar owner to customer,

"Even though I am serving drinks made sloppily, I have to handle this properly!"

Having resolved himself, he asked:

"What is the matter, Shalltear-sama?"

At that moment the woman, Shalltear, prepared to answer as if she was waiting all along for this question to be asked, proving that his conjecture was correct.

"Sorry, but I do not wish to talk about it."

"Stop kidding me."

His face involuntarily contorted, but since he was a mushroom man, the woman could not comprehend his facial movements. Neither did she say anything, merely continuing to toy with the drinking glass on the counter.

"A bit drunk?"

"...Yes, that is true."

"...That is not possible."

Shalltear seemed to feel that she was already drunk, but he was certain that it was impossible.

Intoxication and poison were seen as the same kind, so a person who had absolute immunity against poison could not possibly be drunk. Of course, Shalltear, being undead, was immune to toxins and could not become intoxicated. Those who came to his store either unequip poison neutralizing items or knew that they would not be drunk and just wanted to enjoy this atmosphere.

Except, Shalltear genuinely felt that she was drunk, intoxicated due to the atmosphere.

"Well then, what to do?"

He thought. Fortunately, at this moment he heard the ringing sound of salvation. He lowered his head to the arriving customer.

"Welcome."

"It's good to see you, Piki."

The person who shouted out the nickname given to him because of his mushroom-like appearance. He was a regular patron here, the Butler assistant by the name of Eckleya, accompanied by the male servant who was carrying him.

As usual, Eckleya was silently placed upon the chair. For Eckleya who was one meter in height, sitting on the tall bar stools was a difficult task.

Piki felt it was odd that Shalltear didn't make any greeting. He turned to face her and found her with her head facing downwards as she was mumbling something. Listening carefully, it seemed that she was making an apology to the Supreme Being.

Eckleya ordered wine with fake grandiose:

"That one."

"Understood." nodded the deputy chef

Hearing that, only one special drink floated to mind, one which involved the synthesis of ten different strong spirits in producing a ten colored glass: the Nazarick.

The exterior appearance was breathtaking, and the taste was intensely satisfying, with regular customers often commenting that it deserved the name of Nazarick. However, it was not something he would recommend to others.

To make it even more delicious, he had gone through much trial and error, and it was still incomplete.

With skillful movements, he produced the ten colored drink and placed it in front of Eckleya.

"The lady over there, please try this."

After this, a 'plick...plock...bang' noise could be heard.

Eckleya wanted to slide the cup over to her on the counter. However, that move was something only found in mangas or performed by people with high skill and not something a penguin could pull off.

Piki picked up the dropped glass, confirmed that it was not damaged and let out a sigh of relief. He then took out a cloth and wiped the spilled drink off the counter. With displeased eyes, he spoke slowly:

"Could you please refrain from waving your flipper around? If you insist on doing that, I will put you in a basin and push you out."

"...I'm sorry," Eckleya said with a shameful tone

Becoming aware of Eckleya for the first time, Shalltear raised her head and greeted.

"Ah, if it isn't Eckleya. It's been a while." greeted him Shalltear bit a depressive expression

"A while… But we see each other every time I come to the ninth floor."

"Is that so?"

"Yes it is, but… I hardly ever see you in this bar. I thought that only Guardians like Demiurge come here. Last time, he and Cocytus came together to appreciate their drinks quietly."

"Oh, is that so?"

Hearing her colleague's words, Shalltear's eyes widened.

"What's the problem? Why are you acting like this?"

"It's no big deal… No... I've committed a grave mistake; that is why I'm finding comfort in alcohol, just like a failure would."

Eckleya made a subtle facial gesture towards Piki, silently inquiring "What is it with this girl?", but Piki didn't reply to this, and merely shook his head.

Since he wanted to give them a more enjoyable drinking experience, he asked:

"To lighten up the mood, how about some apple juice?"

The two of them were surprised by this suggestion.

"Made from apples picked from the sixth floor."

Their curiosity was aroused, and both of them nodded at the same time. Their straightforward reaction gave Piki a profound sense of satisfaction.

What was then placed on the table were two portions of unremarkable apple juice. His eyes drifted over to the male servant, but as usual, his offer was declined.

Of course, Eckleya had a penguin's beak, so he had not forgotten to include a straw.

"A refreshing taste."

"Although it isn't bad, it lacks impact… Perhaps it is not sweet enough?"

That was the impression the two people had after finishing it in one go.

"Well, it cannot be helped. I tasted a sample when I brought it over, and compared to those stored in Nazarick, its flavor is insufficient."

"There are apple trees on the sixth floor? I don't recall there being any."

Wherever Shalltear had heard of this impression before, she gave the correct answer before Piki replied:

"Could it be that it is the one which Ainz-sama brought back? I heard from Albedo that they were experimenting to see if outside fruits could be cultivated in Nazarick, to serve as replenishable consumables."

Piki had also heard of this.

Apart from this, he had also accepted various foods from the outside because it was his task to confirm if it were possible to produce ability boosting cuisine.

"That's right; I heard that too. If the plan goes smoothly, next would be cultivating fruit orchards, but it looks like the sweetness is still lacking by far."

"No, it's not like it is undrinkable. I would prefer this if I am looking for a refreshing sweetness."

"...Then who is doing the cultivation at the moment? Aura and Mare are out, could it be that this responsibility... has been given to the monsters?"

"No, no. It's delegated to the forest sprite that Esdeath-sama brought back from the outside."

Wondering who it was, Eckleya made a puzzled expression, whereas Shalltear let out an expression of realization.

"What is happening? Have new people been joining Nazarick?"

Shalltear answered Eckleya's question. Although Piki had seen the forest sprite, he did not know how the situation came to be and so he perked his ears to listen.

It seemed that the woods fairy was brought back after the battle to confirm the guardians' teamwork. As a result of some agreement, it came to Nazarick and became an apple farmer. Of course, for a moment. The feast after the great battle come to her mind. If you watched her face a little more attentively you could see a small smile.

---

Flashback:
In the large dining hall of the ninth floor. Around a great black marble rectangle table.

Eight being sat at the table. Before them, the table was exquisitely laid for. With pure white velvet, tablecloth adorned with bright gold embroidery.

Around them, the maids bustled to change the meals after they finished one. At the upper end of the table sat the impersonification of the Death itself. Wrapped with black academic robes what was adorned with golden trimming.

Two red light dimmed in his eyeholes. Signing he is satisfied.

Beside his right side. Pure beauty, a woman with lustrous, jet-black hair and the face of a goddess. She wore a sheer white dress with silky gloves covering her slender hands and a golden spider web necklace that covers her shoulders and chest.

She was Albedo the Guardian Overseer.

She does not eat only sampled her wine from the golden goblet what adorned with various pieces of jewelry in her hand.

On the other side of Albedo sat Demiurge and Mare.

Mare ate various fruit and vegetables. What were grown on the sixth floor. He ate with the manner of a proper gentlemen using knife and his fork to slice his meal.

However, his twin sister who sat across him were not eating her meal in such a manner. She tried to control herself. But she was too hungry because she removed her [Ring of Sustenance] to prepare her stomach to the feast.

"O-Onee-chan! P-Please gets to hold on yourself. We are in the presence of the Supreme Beings!" he yelped timidly.

Aura stopped suddenly then looked in the direction of the two last Supreme Beings. First, she looked to Ainz then Esdeath.

Albedo frowned a little because Aura munching disrupted her romantic moment with the man whose she loved.

Aura suddenly stopped and straightened herself. "I-I am sorry Ainz-sama." she looked downward shamefully.

Ainz raised his hand. "It is not problem Aura. Just enjoy yourself." Aura smiled brightly and continued her meal.

The left side of Ainz sat. A girl of short stature and has the appearance of a healthy fourteen-year-old girl. Described as a real beauty, she has pale shiny skin, seductive red eyes, and delicate facial features. Her silver hair is tied in a ponytail, allowing others full view of her face.

She wears a soft black evening dress with a big thick skirt. Her upper body is covered in a lace embellished ribbon and a short tailored jacket.

The left side of Shalltear sat Cocytus who peacefully consumed his simple meal. At least it would be peaceful if his mandibles constant rattling's could not emitting such annoying noise. It cannot be helped he ate that way because of his insectoid nature. But the inhabitants of the Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick already get used to the sounds what he is emitting when he is eating.

Demiurge sat the other side of the table eating various meats with a gentleman's manner. Typically he would change into his half frog form and consume his dishes wholly with his enormous mouth. But in the presence of Ainz and Esdeath, he would never allow himself such disgusting act.

In the other end of the table sat Esdeath consuming her meal. She was in her child form. She ate with the manner with her cutlery. But she used them so fast she could be included in the competition with Son Goku from the Dragon Ball series and Luffy from the One Piece series and probably win.

Momonga sweat dropped inwardly when he saw his friend. "How much food could fit in that petite body seriously!?"

He raised his hand. "Esdeath-san. Please slow down If you continue like this. You will eat out Nazarick from its food supplies."

Esdeath laughed. "Sorry Ainz-san." she scratched the back of her head while smirked. "But according to my calculation that will only happen if I continue like this approximately two weeks. But I will try my best."

Ainz sighed deeply. "Just slow down. OK?" he tutored his friend with a calm tone.

"As I said. I try my best."

Ainz did not eat nor drink anything due to his undead nature and just watched jealously how the others consume their meals. The feeling what he felt was not jealously but the feeling he misses an important thing out from his life.

Feeling how Ainz looking at the others. Esdeath stopped eating. She felt sorry about her friend inability. "Thank you. I am full." she put down her fork.

In the background from the system. A calm, pleasant, melancholic music played.

Ainz raised his golden adorned goblet what was filled with the best wine what you can find in Nazarick.

"We gathered here today to celebrate your first real fight and battle practice. We are proud all of you. Both of us. In the future, we expect your help later on. I the ruler of The Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick thank you all of your hard and persistent work and wish you all wellbeing in the future."

"Meantime, while you work outside. Esdeath-san and I too try our best to gather as much information as possible about this world and our lost comrades so they may re-join us as soon as possible."

Albedo face twitched. But only for a moment. You could only see that little twitch of her if you looked at her beautiful face in that exact moment.

But everyone else face was lit up with joy.

They all raised their cups. "Cheer!" they all said in unison.

Albedo "accidentally" stumbled into Ainz. Because of her great outfit and poured the high-quality red wine on his black academic robes.

"I-I am very sorry Ainz-sama. Let me clean your clothes." Ainz tried to protest. Saying his robes were stain proof. But she were already prepared her white hand towel and leaned closer to Ainz bare skull head seeing seductively in his eye sockets.

The romantic moment was disturbed by Shalltear who also tried to clean Momonga. In an attempt to get closer to him.

Ainz was a little perplexed because of the two woman doing. Not enough to trigger his Passive Mental Suppression. Just sufficient to feel embarrassed near the two of them.

Meanwhile, Esdeath smiled smugly under her folded hand.

Seeing each other doing. Albedo and Shalltear glared at each other.

"What are you doing Albedo?"

"I could ask the same Shalltear…"

"I am trying to clean Ainz-sama robes because of your clumsiness!" said Shalltear with a tone what emitted a big portion of anger.

"You know my intention was not to spill my wine on Ainz-sama. I just slipped because of my dress."

"You are lying! You are just trying to steal Ainz-sama love!" Ainz emotion suppression kicked in because of his embarrassment. Esdeath quietly enjoying this little prattle snickered under her folded hands.

"And what if it is true. It is the wife job to comfort her husband it is not?" she looked at Ainz with sparkling eyes. "Ainz-sama!?"

"How could I answer to this? If I say no. She will be offended If I say yes. Shalltear will be offended. What should I do." mused Momonga.

Then a sudden idea came to his mind. "Excuse me. But I must had to investigate a case in the Treasury immediately. I get a message from Pandora's Actor. He quickly needs my presence."

"Ainz-sama let me go with you!" offered Albedo and Shalltear in unison then started to glare each other again.

Ainz waved protesting with one of his skeletal hand. "Thank you. But this is a case what I have to investigate alone."

He looked in Esdeath direction. "Esdeath-san. I leave the rest to you."

"Ok. Ainz-san. Take care." she waved him. Momonga activated his Guild Ring and disappeared from the room. The two female guardian just looked dumbfounded.

Demiurge snickered under his nose.

"W-Why does you are laughing Demiurge-san?" asked Mare innocently.

"Oh. Nothing Mare. Nothing."

Mare nodded nervously.

Demiurge smiled evilly. "Sasuga Ainz-sama! You always surpass my estimations! I estimated you would somehow offend one of the parties. But you managed to leave them confused. You are truly worthy of the title of the wisest being! You are not only the best tactician in Nazarick, but you also know the woman's heart. As expected Ainz-sama!"

With that, the night continued.

---

Flashback End:

"Nazarick is also evolving, becoming more powerful."

Both Piki and Shalltear agreed with Eckleya's words.

As deputy chef, Piki had no idea of the plans for the Great Tomb of Nazarick. But now he understood that both of the last two Supreme Beings had put their full effort in gaining power in this world and becoming more powerful.

"I see. Then in the future, there may be more entities like that forest sprite joining the ranks of Nazarick."

Shalltear puffed up her cheeks and vented her dissatisfaction at Eckleya.

"I detest this. For this place created by the Supreme Beings… Why should those dirty things be allowed to roam these grounds?"

He also shared the same sentiment. This place was blessed with the presence of the Supreme Beings. For those who were born in this location, the mere thought of outsiders being allowed to enter would cause them to frown, but there was a point more important than his personal views.

"We have to endure this. It is Ainz-sama's decision after all."

The Supreme Beings decision was absolute. Only The Highest Supreme Being, Ainz Ooal Gown's decision were written it over If Ainz Ooal Gown said something. Like, white was black, then it must be black. Even if an another Supreme Being said otherwise.

"I did not mean to question Ainz-sama's decisions!"

Towards the panicking Shalltear, the two others also nodded in agreement.

"Then in the future we also need to become role models, displaying more loyalty to Ainz-sama. I don't think anybody, but you will rebel against Ainz-sama or Esdeath-sama."

"That is true. Speaking of which, how is it Shalltear? If you join me now, I will grant you an even higher status in the future—"

Eckleya's started his usual recruitment talk— which would never succeed but was interrupted by a strange scream.

"Hyaaaaa~~."

Both men's stares were directed at Shalltear who was covering her head and ceaselessly professing her loyalty.

"…What happened? Her tone is different from normal too."

In response to the astounded Eckleya, Piki shook his head and shrugged.

"Who knows?"

---

Scene Change: Forest of Tove:

The newly dominated Tove forest was full of silence, every living being was afraid of the king's gaze and held their breath.

But, only this place was different.

The sounds of trees being cut down and voices spread throughout the surroundings.

The golems here would make one think of heavy construction machinery— Heavy Iron Machine, were transporting wooden logs to a building area of a huge building. This building still had a long way to go before completion, the foundation was huge, and a small part was completed.

Working within this area were a group of golems and undead.

Out of the undead working here, most of them were Elder Liches, who wore conspicuous red robes.

Besides them, there were armored beings of pure energy with angelic wings. Whose helped out the Elder Liches with their coordinator work.

The Aether beings wore a strange golden armor what was trimmed with black scales and wore hoods in their head. Of course, if you wanted to see their faces you could not find anything. There was only consuming darkness under their hood.

Upon each one's shoulders were demons about thirty centimeters in length, sporting long bat wings and red copper-colored skin— demons known as imps. The demons lifted their venomous tails up high to prevent them from dripping poison and hinder the Elder Liches and the Aether Legates.

One particularly hardworking Elder Lich opened up the plans in his hands and gave orders to the working golems.

Looking at the golems who stopped and obeyed his command, he compared the construction site and the plans in his hands. After a little consideration, he spoke to the imp sitting on his shoulder.

After listening, the imp expressed his understanding, flapped his wings and flew up into the sky.

With flying that could not be considered elegant, the imp surveyed the area with his eyes opened wide. Not long after, the little devil found his target and quickly flew downwards.

That person was the Great Tomb of Nazarick's Sixth Floor Guardian, Aura Bella Fiore, and also one of the new kings of this forest.

The Dark Elf girl used a rolled up paper as a megaphone, allowing her voice to travel far. The imp flew down and stood in salute in front of her; Aura then inquired in a familiar tone.

"Good~ now which group are you coming from?"

"Aura-sama, it would be Group U, number 3."

"U-Group, good good, understood. Now, what else is the problem?"

The ones working here were divided into groups named after letters, from A to U, each team was sent to a different area to do a different job. From Aura's memory, she remembers that Group U's job was the construction of the storage warehouse, whose construction progress was also the second fastest.

"There are problems with the width of the logs used for construction, are we able to request for a little more ti—"

At this moment, the imp's voice suddenly stopped, this was because a sound came out from a piece of iron hanging around Aura's wrist.

"It's break time~."

Hearing a bubbly female voice, the color of Aura's face suddenly changed, her ears dropped down, and changed into an embarrassed expression.

"Yes, understood, Simmering Teapot-sama!"

Aura energetically replied to the voice from her wrist.

"So, because it is already time to eat, the work for this morning will end for now."

Out of all the monsters working in the area, almost all of them didn't need to eat. On that issue, Aura herself was also wearing the Ring of Sustenance, and needed neither food nor sleep. But since her masters worried about the wellbeing of everyone and always said "Always have a good rest," she followed his instruction happily.

"Although it would be rude to you, it is time for rest, so please come back in an hour."

"Understood, then this subordinate will take his leave."

The imp quickly left and flew into the air, leaving only the sound of his flapping wings.

Looking at the devil going towards where the construction of the warehouse was happening, Aura shook her shoulders, then looked at the strap on her wrist.

This time she showed an expression filled with happiness.

This was a reward given to her by Ainz because of all her hard work. Of course, towards their primary task as a Floor Guardian, working hard at their job was a given, and did not warrant a reward. In fact, it should be obvious to give all that she has for the master.

However, she could not just reject the wrist watch given to her by her master.

"Hohoho, I want to hear more of Simmering Teapot-sama's voice."

Aura warmly touched the strap on her wrist. Her current actions could be comparatively warmer than when she was touching her pets.

All the voices that came from this instrument were from the one who created Aura.

Even though the voices were only used to tell the time, this still served to satisfy Aura significantly.

When she heard that her younger brother had received the Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown, she felt a little envious, but honestly speaking, right now she felt that the object she obtained was so much better.

"Hohohohohohohoho."

Aura's ears drooped, and she looked shyly at the strap. She looked at the light shining brightly onto the strap and satisfyingly nodded her head.

"Why did Ainz-sama set some times when it cannot be used?"

Ainz-sama ordered that the times 7:21 and 19:19 can not be set as alarm time.

"Eh... why don't we just ask him? Ah, this is bad! Maybe, I can ask Esdeath-sama. She is a Supreme Being too. Maybe she knew!" she slapped her hand because of the joy of her insight.

Aura looked at the numbers on the strap and quickly ran off.

In front of where she was going was a maid.

One of the 41 maids within the Great Tomb of Nazarick, a homunculus whose outer appearance was that of a beautiful lady, but she was an exception.

Her head was that of a dog, with a vertical line running down the center of her face like a scar with signs of stitching. It felt as though her face that had split into two halves were being sewn back together.

Her name is Pestunia S Wanko.

She is the Great Tomb of Nazarick's Head Maid, and also a High Priest.

"As per Aura-sama's wishes, I have brought a hamburger, as well as two pickles, french fries with skin on; the drink would be cola… Woof."

After a long pause, she let out a "woof" sound, making Aura think that she may have just forgotten to add it at the end. But Aura did not say anything special about this because there was something else that had her attention. It was the smell which would make one's stomach growl. Although the Ring of Sustenance made it so that one did not have to consume food, it did not mean she could not eat. Also, eating should be a fortunate thing, especially if it was food that was so delicious.

"Speaking of the overall effect of eating this…"

"Ah, no need, no need, I am not eating this for the sake of a beneficial effect."

"Understood woof."

Aura walked towards the side of Pestunia, where a meal cart was emitting a fragrant smell.

"Time to eat, time to eat."

Pestunia, upon hearing Aura's self-composed meal song, took off the silver lid off the plate on the lunch cart.

"Aah~."

Aura could not help but stare intently at the food revealed before her, at the same time spoke the words that immediately came to her mind.

"Although A7 beef is also good, I much prefer a mixture of beef and pork. If only I could use that combination to create a three-layered meat pie."

"Then, this servant will convey your suggestion to the chef woof."

"Ah sorry to trouble you!" said Aura with an embarrassed tone.

Aura then took the plate and happily walked away.

---

Scene Change: Secret Location:

Demiurge was in a great mood as he hummed while he worked.

He picked up the polished bone, wondering where he should put it for the best presentation. Shortly after, he made his decision and sliced off the tip and place it on the item he was building.

The bone fitted in perfectly like a piece of a puzzle.

If building a house without using nails is known as 'precision wood joint,' then what Demiurge was doing should be 'precision bone joint.'

"That looks great. Don't you think Zero-san?" asked Demiurge his silent companion.

Zero nodded in agreement. "Indeed Demiurge-san. It is a splendid work indeed fitting the ruler of Nazarick."

Demiurge caressed the bone with a smile on his face. If he continued to work on it, he had a feeling he can complete an outstanding piece.

"But… I lack the right femur of a man about 1.2m in height."

He could complete it even if he don't find that bone. But without it, it wouldn't look as nice.

Usually, Demiurge would compromise and make do with this. But this gift was meant for his beloved master, so he had to make it perfect.

"It would be great if I can find something suitable."

Demiurge, who was in a good mood, started moving.

Zero looked around and analyzed his surrounding with his cybernetic eyes making complicated calculations to find Demiurge the appropriate item. In the end, he found it. He walked towards the pile of bones.

Dug in it deeply and raised the exact bone what Demiurge searched.

"Here. Demiurge-san." he handed the bone to Demiurge. "Splendid! Thank you Zero-san! This is exactly what I was waiting for!" he placed the bone in its place.

Demiurge looked at his creation with measuring eyes. "It is good but not perfect." mused Demiurge. Then turned towards Zero. "What do you think Zero-san? What would make this furniture worthy of the leader of the Supreme Beings?"

"We can't find such thing in outside. You can only find perfection in Nazarick. But if you ask me a sometimes a less is little more."

Demiurge looked at his creation and mused over it. "Hm. Maybe you are right."

Demiurge liked to create such items. His interest was not in using bones to make things but in carpentry work. His interest in this field was rather broad, from art pieces to furniture, his skills had surpassed that of a weekend hobbyist.

In fact, if you ignore the material he was using, anyone would be impressed by the quality of his work.

The other items displayed in this tentage, such as the bronze bust of the master cast from lava, all sort of chairs and clamps are all made by Demiurge. They might be for the practical use and lack decorations, but they were all excellent pieces.

Demiurge turned to Zero. "What are you doing Zero-san?" asked him Demiurge.

"Painting." answered blandly Zero while continued his work. Demiurge walked beside his partner and inspected the artwork.

Demiurge mouth turned into a smile. "Truly worthy of the Supreme ones." on the huge painting, there were the forty-one Supreme Beings stood on the top of the world. While Momonga raised the Guild Flag. Below them all of the subordinates of Nazarick kneeling. While the broken bodies of the 1500 invaders lying broken around them.

Of course, while they were there. Zero painted a lot more painting. Mostly the almost lifelike portraits of the 41. He could make them like a photo entirely. Thanks to her Automaton motoric skills. But he decided it would be better if he made them more art like.

Demiurge nodded then went back to his artistic work.

As Demiurge was studying a material he picked up from a corner of the tent, he felt some movement near the entrance.

Demiurge put the bone in his hands back gently and held the item bestowed to him by his master that might not be replaceable, focusing on what was happening outside.

Zero summoned his high caliber futuristic automatic rifle from his pocket dimension and raised in the direction of the entrance.

Normally, the one outside should be his underling or colleague. No one could have broken through all the layers what he and Zero raised to detect and stop the attackers. Without them noticing, but they had to be wary of the one who had controlled Shalltear.

Several seconds later, someone opened the entrance of the tent. He was dressed in pure white, wearing a mask with a long beak like a bird.

Peruchinera.

He was a clown, a creation of the Supreme Being just like Demiurge and Zero. For this operation, he had been assigned to assist Demiurge.

Demiurge looked with satisfaction at the clown that was throwing his head back in laughter.

"I see, you are right."

Confirming that he was not under mind control, the tension in Demiurge's eyes dispersed, and he relaxed the grip on the item in his hand. Zero lowered his gun. His face as always was completely stoic and uncaring. His face was always like this because his master created him like this. He does not mind it. The only thing what he wanted is to serve and protect the Supreme Beings especially his creator If she asked him to attack anyone from Nazarick even Momonga or end his own existence. He would do it without hesitation or regret.

"Demiurge-sama, the skin has been peeled."

These words made Demiurge felt that it was a shame.

Demiurge wanted to enjoy this work himself, but to guard against the mysterious enemies, they couldn't leave their post most of the time and had to assign the task to Peruchinera.

Demiurge did not express his emotions and gave new instructions to Peruchinera.

"Good work. Well then, begin the next phase. It would be disrespectful if we give that thing to Ainz-sama like this."

Demiurge asked Peruchinera who was bowing gracefully.

"So, how many died?"

"None. Thanks to the tormentor, they only lost consciousness. Therefore we can continue peeling their skin soon. A few were unwilling to be healed… but that was within expectation, so there is no issue."

"That is splendid."

It took a lot of effort to collect the materials; they had to peel few more times for it to be worthwhile. That might be so, but he didn't want to peel the skins in a painless fashion or drug them.

"I want everyone to be happy."

Peruchinera said suddenly, making Demiurge remember his personality.

Peruchinera was known throughout Nazarick for his gentleness and mercy. He was created for the purpose of making everyone happy, and his action was based on this belief.

"The people in the Great Tomb of Nazarick find happiness in serving Ainz-sama and Esdeath-sama."

Demiurge and Zero nodded in agreement.

"I see. Let me ask you, Peruchinera, do you mean that other people will feel happy when they serve Nazarick?"

"How could that be, I don't mean that. Serving Ainz-sama makes us so glad that we could cry tears of joy. But if they were forced to do the same, that's not happiness."

"Ohh, then what should we do about this?" inquired Demiurge

"Simple, just pick one person and cut off his arms. That way, the others will compare themselves with him and know that they are more fortunate. How wonderful. And to make the one whose arms were chopped off feel blessed, we just need to chop off another person's legs. Ahh, I made so many people happy!"

Zero forced a wonderful small smile on his always stoic face. „Logical," he said only this word. But Demiurge knew him enough to know what that means him.

Zero thought about that. He could tell more about the work what he and Demiurge were doing with the sheep what they acquired. Maybe she will be so proud of him that she will praise his accomplishments.

Zero know what kind of danger lies amongst the walls of Nazarick. What can threatens his creator safety. It was that woman. He was aware that what she thought about her master really, and she wanted to put Esdeath away from her way.

But she was too high ranked to Zero to just directly accuse her things like treason. No. He needed solid evidence of her treason against an another Supreme Being. He needed to keep open his eyes if he wanted to guarantee his real master safety.

Meanwhile:

Esdeath sneezed.

"Bless you Esdeath-san!" said Ainz. "I wonder how you could catch a cold if you supposedly immune every disease."

"No idea Ainz-san. No idea," she replied.

---

Scene Change: Carne Village:

It was a sunny day in Carne Village. The villagers did their usual jobs. Farming, baking, fixing their houses, etc. The golems what's Ainz gave them to build the walls and the goblins what Enry summoned with the horn what Ainz gave her were helped them out. They would not have to worry about such thing as their security because of the walls and the goblins who's seemingly treated her like she was their leader.

She commanded them, and they followed her commands. They even helped out of them with hunting beasts and training them how to use weapons correctly. So, next time if the enemy attacks there will be not as much causality. They don't have to cover in fear in the shadow of the attacking soldiers. Praying for their life. They don't have to wait for heroes like Ainz Ooal Gown or Esdeath Gorgon to save them.

She looked at the slowly built on statues of the village's saviors, and she drew strength from the sight.

No. In that day she learned. Heroes like that two will not come whenever they needed simply because they are not omnipotent. They can't be everywhere at once. She was of course very glad of her village saviors and wanted to thank them properly.

But as a poor village girl. She could not do much. The only thing what she could do is to make out the most of her life. Be stronger. Help the weak out and not waste the kindness of her saviors.

She walked with a big rod over her shoulder. On two end of the rod, there was two bucket full of water. They should be heavy the girls like her in her age. But she was a country girl, not some noble brat. She got used to this weight under her harsh life.

"Enri-sama! Let me help you!" yelled one of the goblin what she summoned.

"No, thank you. I am fine," she answered the goblin while smiled at him. "Go help out Damien over there."

She pointed the man who tried to patch his house roof.

The goblin nodded and hurried away. Enri continued her way towards the center of the village where a training ground was set.

In the middle of the sparring ring. Nfirea and Ninya sparred with each other. They seemed exhausted because of the physical conditioning training layout what Raidyn left them while she was away. She left them with the instruction to practice and improved themselves physically and magically. Today was a physical exercise day.

Of course, Raidyn left them with the instruction to use legs and hand weights to further increase their training effectiveness and left them a few hand made. Weak magical seals what seriously hold back their magical power. So they push themselves further to improve their mana pool.

Enri stood beside the ring where the goblin leader watched over the two young man spar.

The goblin leader greeted Enri with a nod. Enri nodded him back.

Ninya used an uppercut. But Nfirea just barely but sidestepped. In response, Nfirea used his footwork to get close to Ninya and tried to use the sword handle button to throw off Ninya from his balance.

They were head to head with each other. No one's got the upper hand for a long time. If one of them tried something, the other quickly adapted and countered with something else.

They spared each other for a while as Enri watched over their training. Then turned to the goblin beside her and asked.

"How long they fight like this?"

"Approximately two hours Enri-sama." answered the goblin leader while turned his head towards Enri then back.

Enri looked back to them. "That's not okay. They will strain their bodies too much." they watched them with keen interest.

The goblin leader closed his eyes and sighed. "I said them this myself. Enri-sama. But they did not listen to the right word. Maybe you can do something Enri-sama."

Enri nodded with a determined face. "I will try."

"Ninya, Nfirea please stop. There is almost lunch time." Nfirea stopped hearing his love belling voice and turned his head towards her. His face reddened because he is not recognized Enri watching his training with Ninya.

He did not realize one more thing. The barely standing Ninya last stumbling strike what hit him on his head. Luckily they only practiced with training swords. So it did not cause any permanent damage. But it was painful nonchalantly.

"Hey! Watch out Ninya!"

The still panting Ninya looked at him. "Sorry Nfirea-san. I were not recognized your sudden stop for a moment."

"No problem Ninya-san. Just please be careful next time. Ok?" Nfirea tried to numb the pain what the sword caused to him.

"If you did not pull yourself together I might leave you behind in training seclude." said Nfirea with a smirk.

"Dreaming is always free." Ninya smiled. He was still recovering from his injuries from that night. So he was not 100%.

Meanwhile, Enri and the goblin leader watched the two of them with a smile on their faces.

"It seems they become friends quite quickly." Enri smiled.

The goblin leader nodded beside her. "Yes indeed."

Enri slowly walked towards them. Put down the heavy buckets from her shoulder. And poured two portions of water in two wooden mugs.

She offered to them, and they gladly accepted it. After Nfirea and Ninya greedily gulped up the water. Their throats were sore after the long practice without any rest.

After they had gulped up their portion, they relieved in unison.

"Thank you Enri!" said Nfirea.

Ninya nodded. "Thank you!"

Enri snickered in their reaction and smiled. "No problem." she tried to ward off their praise.

"Do you want more?" she asked happily. "Yes!" Nfirea and Ninya said in unison then looked at each other and laughed.

"Come, the lunch is ready," she said to them. They nodded together and headed towards the building where Enri goblins and they used to eat.

They all sat at the table and started their meal. The meal was nothing ordinary. Bread, a little-dried meat and vegetable soup. After the long spar, they ate like there was no tomorrow. Nfirea realized Enri was watching him and reddened deeply. He gulped the last chew what was in his mouth and started to eat regularly.

"Nfirea-san. In the last few days, I did not hear anything about Raidyn-san. Is she on a mission?"

Inquired Ninya

"I don't know Ninya-san. She said she would go on a mission and left me with the instruction to practice and follow our training schedule."

"Did she left us a job? She used to request us a job from the Adventurer's Guild."

Nfirea gulped. Enri looked him with a perplexed expression. "Nfirea? What's wrong?"

"I-I forgot about the job what she requested us. I put down the paper on my work desk. Near my…" Nfirea sweat dropped.

"Where…?" inquired Ninya.

"I did not have any more paper, and I used it to take notes… Then I accidentally poured a big amount of ink on it."

Ninya nodded. "Then why we are still here! Come I know a spell what can remove the ink what makes the ink fade away. And reveal the original text."

Nfirea nodded and with that they left the dining hall.

After they spent almost all of their afternoon to clean the assignment paper from the useless ink even with Nfirea used his alchemical knowledge to hasten the process. The text finally revealed itself. The spell and the alchemy took a long time to able to clean the ink. And it needed constant supervision to not to damage the paper.

Meanwhile, Nfirea and Ninya used their free time in Nfirea local labor to use the ingredients what they acquired from Nazarick and from other sources to try to replicate the blood of the gods. The legendary red potion what Nfirea and his grandmother tried to learn from Raidyn.

The two of them reached new conclusions and found new methods to create potions. Ninya was not as experienced and talented at the theme of alchemy and herbology as Nfirea. But he learned fast. And quickly become Nfirea assistant.

"That's it the spell finally revealed the text."

"Let me see!" said Nfirea and grabbed the paper. "Clear out the lair of undead near Carne village."

"What? There is a retreat of undead near the town of Carne?" agape Ninya

"What rank mission is that?" Nfirea looked to the paper.

"It is gold! Do you think only the two of us is up to it?" Ninya looked uneasily to Nfirea

"If Es…" Nfirea gulped because he almost revealed Raidyn. His new mentor real name. "I mean if Raidyn-san thinks we are up to it. We surely will be able to do it."

Ninya nodded in agreement. "It is not far away from the village. We should reach it under a few hours."

"What do you say? We should go now or wait until tomorrow?"

Nfirea looked outside seeing it's already dusk. "I think it will be better for tomorrow. It is already dusk and some undead. Like vampires are a lot stronger in the night. It will be unfortunate if we die because of our recklessness."

Ninya nodded. "True. Sorry. Time flies when you have fun. Besides that. We need supplies against undead. Undead is especially weak against divine magic casters like priests or any other magic casters who use positive life force."

"Don't forget blunt weapons and alchemical silver. Raidyn-san always gave us the payments what we earn when we adventure together even her part. Saying she make enough as it."

"But we still don't have enough money to buy a proper silver weapon," said Ninya

He turned towards Nfirea and asked. "Nfirea-san. Don't you have some alchemical silver stuffed somewhere away?"

"Let me see it." Nfirea searched for minutes between his alchemical supplies but only found one bottle. "I only found one bottle. It is enough against a few undead, but we don't know how many foes we face."

"Can't you make some?" inquired Ninya

"It is easy to make some. But I am afraid I don't have the necessary ingredients for it. But maybe granny has some between her supplies." replied Nfirea.

"Then tomorrow morning we will leave to E-Rantel."

Nfirea nodded with a determinant face. "Yes. But tonight. Let rest. We had a dull day."

After they finished the alchemical experiments what they planned to that day. They went to rest.

In the next day, the two boys wake up early to reach the fortress city as soon as possible.

Outside Enri already did her usual daily routine. The golems do not work at night. Due Ainz commanded them to do not disturb the village rest. But in the first ray of the sunlight they started their hard non-stop work again. Without rest, without food, without a drink. They worked a lot faster than any human workforce could do that. However, they were dumb as the rock. Without command, they only just stood in one place. Waiting for their master instructions.

Enri noticed Ninya and Nfirea. They were fully equipped with their traveling gear.

"Oh, Ninya, Nfirea. Are you going into the city?" inquired Enri.

"Yes, Enri. We forgot about an important mission what Raidyn-san gave us." Nfirea said with an embarrassed tone.

"That woman always push you two too hard. You could gather your courage and tell her not to push you so hard."

Nfirea thought about what his "girlfriend" said and tried to oppose her opinion. But he was just too afraid to tell Enri. It was them to ask Raidyn to give them this hard training schedule. But before he could open his mouth Ninya answered instead of him.

"That's not right Enri-san. We were the ones who's asked Raidyn-chan this solid training plan."

Enri glared at them. "Why should you want to go through this kind of torture what she calls. "Training." Why do you do this to yourselves?"

"W-We just want to be stronger. So I can protect yo…" Nfirea gulped. "I mean the village."

"That is not necessary. We can take care of ourselves now we have goblin-san and our training."

"Still…" sweat dropped Nfirea.

Enri sighed. "Just please be careful. Both of you. Don't overstrain yourselves."

"Hay!" both of them bowed with respect in their eyes.

"Well, then. Take care. And don't be reckless on the road. You know without the Wise King the Forest. The woods became much more dangerous than before."

Ninya and Nfirea nodded and bid farewell to Enri.

Meanwhile, Lupusregina Beta. Who is commanded by Ainz to watch over the village of Carne. Watched as her favorite chew toys leave the village with keen interest from one of the rooftops. She was bored by the other villagers. They were just not fun. She could not even torture them because Ainz and Esdeath forbade her to touch them even with one finger.

So, this is how the two young adventurers take their way towards the fortress city of E-Rantel. Their little journey took approximately one and a half day. When they arrived into the city the city, was buzzed in time because it was almost lunch time. Nfirea and Ninya stomach growled because they came almost non-stop in the direction of the town and only ate a little dried food on the way.

Scene Change: Fortress city of E-Rantal

"We are almost there Ninya-san," said Nfirea to his traveling companion.

Ninya nodded. "I know Nfirea-san. I was in your grandmother shop before. In that night…" his voice quietened.

"I am sorry Ninya-san. I would not have had to bring up such theme…"

"No, it is alright. Beside Raidyn-chan took care my friend's killers, I can't thank her enough. But every time I ask her about what happened in the cemetery or how I could thank her. She just quickly changes the theme. I understand she doesn't want to speak about what she saw in the cemetery in that night. But…" Ninya immediately stopped what he wanted to say.

"There is no point. The short time I know her. She never actually revealed anything to me about her either. She is just changing the topic or distract our attention about themes what are not related to either her personal life or similar things. She is very secretive."

Ninya eyes widened realizing he is not the only one who lost people in his life. First his sister, his friends from the Sword of Darkness. Peter, Lukeluther, and Dyne. They were all faithful companions and good friends. They always helped each other out in dire situations. He remembered Raidyn had also companioned. She told them about them and about that how she lost them. How could he forget about such important detail? Why did he not realized this before?

"I must somehow make it right my earlier rude incomprehension." thought Ninya with a depressive inner tone while he looked at the ground with an empty stare.

"I-I don't want to lose her too because of the secrets what she held." said Ninya with a depressed tone.

"Are you fallen into Raydin-chan? Ninya-san?" asked Nfirea with a playful smirk.

Ninya head reddened. "N-No! Why do you assume such things!?" said Ninya with a panicked tone.

"The way as you speak about her when she is not around. That's why I assume this."

"I-Is this so obvious? But it does not matter. Low ranked adventurers like me surely do not have a chance with her." Ninya said with a depressed tone

"Don't give up! Surely she would not save you and not take you under her wings if she does not like you. The girl whose I love did not recognize me yet. But I still trying. Just don't give up Ninya-san!" Nfirea sought to comfort his companion.

Ninya eyes filled with determination and looked to Nfirea. "Thank you! I will not give up. Maybe, one day she will recognize me! I just had to try harder!"

Nfirea nodded and continued. "She always smiling and joking. Even in the direst situation. I read once in a book. People who act like this often only hide their pain under their smile and sometimes silly looking nature. Build on this comfort her. At least I read this in that book."

"Ah we are here!" interrupted his monolog Nfirea. He reached the door of the shop and opened it.

"Granny I am home!" Lizzie looked up from the counter where she currently sorted her alchemical supplies.

"Nfirea! You finally came! I am waiting for you for days! Where were you?"

Nfirea started to scratch his head embarrassingly. "I am sorry granny I had a few things to do."

Then she turned the still silently standing Ninya. "Ah. Ninya-san. I hope your recovering going well."

Nfirea shook his head and looked to his grandmother with a look of uneasiness. But it was barely noticeable.

Noticing this Lizzie ashamed herself. "I am sorry Ninya-san. It must be hard for you after that night."

"N-No, Lizzie-san it is fine. I already get over it and as Raidyn-san said. What does not kill you make you stronger."

Lizzie smiled and nodded. "Then I am glad." the two young man stomach growled loudly.

"It seems you two are getting hungry after your long road. Come I will invite you to a restaurant."

"No, granny we came only for just a few alchemical ingredients, and we have to go because we have an important mission." protested Nfirea

"Don't say no to your older! Boy! I clearly see the two of your eyes! You did not eat anything normal meal since a week."

Nfirea stepped one step backward. "Granny?"

"Don't granny's me! Just accept the damn invitation!" Lizzie scolded them.

Ninya smiled brightly and turned to Nfirea. "I think we have no other choice Nfirea-san."

Nfirea looked like a defeated man. "You are right. We gladly accept the invitation granny. But after the meal, we have to go in our way."

Lizzie smiled like he won a bet. "Fair trade but before you go. You two have to help me out in the shop. Remember Nfirea this was our deal. I only allowed you to go in that village and became a part-time adventurer with this criteria. You had to help me out at least two times in a month. Raidyn-san also accepted this principle."

"Fine… We will help you out."

"That's the spirit!" laughed Lizzie. "Now come I know the best place in the neighborhood then we will search the alchemical supplies what you need."

Both of them nodded. After the copious meal what they ate in the Golden Hare. One of the best restaurant in the neighborhood. They went back into the Bareare alchemy shop and gathered the supplies what they needed for their adventures.

On the way, they saw a mess when older gentlemen who dressed in butler uniform tried to protect a young boy from some criminal thugs. The former butler with well-trimmed mustache and beard took the thugs attack right away, but he does not even budge. In response, he just swept away his attackers with a single blown. It was awe inspiring but after the crowd started to disappear they too went on their way too.

They helped out Lizzie in the shop as they promised to her. The work was much more than they anticipated firstly. Lizzie was in the middle of her yearly stock –taking. It took all of their remaining day and most of their night to finish it. But it had to be done at least once a year, or there will be chaos in the shop inventory after a while.

Luckily they found the three last remaining silver substance what they are looking for. So Nfirea did not have to make.

The fact why Lizzie was so little stock on it because of the news about a powerful vampire appeared near the city but as the rumors say an adamantine class adventurer were already taken care of it. But there will be maybe other lower classed monsters roamed around.

Every adventurer knew. The higher level monsters almost never came alone. No. They brought their whole household with them if they changed the place what they inhabited. So everyone had to be on their guard if they wanted to survive the nights.

They spent the night in Lizzie house. Where Nfirea room was still intact. Lizzie and Nfirea slept in their rooms. Ninya got the guest room.

The morning came fastly, and the two adventurers wake up as new after they spent the night in beds and not in the cold ground in a tent. In the morning prepared them to leave. Before they left Lizzie halted their leave.

"Wait a moment." the two young looked perplexed. They already said their goodbyes what more Lizzie should want from them?

After minutes Lizzie came back to them with a big package in her hand. "Here Nfirea. Happy birthday!" she smiled at him widely.

"Thank you, Granny! But my birthday will be in a week."

"This is why I give it to you now. We most likely not meet in the next week. Now. Open it!" she commanded her grandson.

Nfirea quickly opened it and him agape because what he saw. It was a brand new high-grade alchemical equipment. Nfirea has one too. But it was much lower quality than her grandmother's or this.

"Granny… This is what it seems?" he asked incredulously

"Your eyes better than mine. Tell me yourself." smirked his grandmother.

"This is your high-grade equipment. B-But I can't just accept it. "

"Damn you, child! Just accept it! Your work is far more important to be this shy! Moreover. You research the potion what that adventurer friend of you gave that redhead." Lizzie scolded her grandchild.

"I see. Thank you very much." with that he hugged his grandmother. Lizzie smiled on this and hugged back.

"But I expect on that recipe in my lifetime." Nfirea stopped his hugging and looked his grandmother eyes under his long hair what covered his eyes. "I try my best." he smiled back to his older.

"Can we leave this here until we return to collect our reward from the Adventurer's Guild?"

"Of course." Lizzie nodded. And with that, the two young man left the Baleare Apothecary.

It did not take a long time until they reached the entrance of E-Rantel where they initially arrived. They had not much money in their pockets. But it was enough to rent two horses.

---

Scene Change: Secret Place near Carne Village:

With their fresh horses, they could make much more distance under shorter time. So they managed to reach the location where the undead entrenched themselves under one day. It was a dark cave near the Great Forest of Tove. Its entrance was adorned with various animal, human and other creature bones.

Nfirea looked around. But he found nothing. "What's wrong Nfirea-san?" asked Ninya.

"Nothing. Ninya-san. I just thought I felt something is watching us for a moment. But it was probably my imagination..."

"Let's buff up and prepare our weapons for the battle." said Ninya.

They smeared their arms with the oils what they bought with themselves. They did not use the alchemical silver yet. Because its effect has passed early. It cannot be helped. Every attempt what aimed to raise its exposure time failed. There were good attempts from the alchemist who tried this, but all of them ultimately failed. The silver looking liquid was only active approximately one and a half hour after you smeared your weapons with it.

On the contrary, the weapon oils were not bounded by a locked time frame. If once you put it on your weapon it can be on it all day too. Without losing its effectiveness. Of course, the weapon oils had downsides too. For example. You could only use a certain amount of time against monsters whose has a good metabolism. Like werewolf or trolls before they become immune to it. There was an another big downside. There were a limited amount of charges from the oil on the weapon. For example, you hit the enemy with it once. The lesser quantity oil remained on your sword.

This can be bypassed of course. With unique enchantments what's reproduce the chosen substance on the weapon. But these enchantments only be produced magic casters whose know minimum tier four magic.

Ninya and Nfirea entered the cave after they buffed each other and prepared. The cave was pitch black due there were not any light sources. Undead used [Dark Vision] passively, so they did not need any light source. So why would be any torches.

Ninya murmured a short chant, and a floating orb of light appeared before them. This spell named [Continuous Light]. A low tiered spell with a low upkeep cost. It used to illuminate dark areas.

As they progressed deeper and deeper in the cave, sometimes they encountered low level skeleton warriors with rusty armors and weapons. And slow, low-level zombies who've tried to grab them with their slow movement. This undead was not dangerous alone. But in hordes, they could quickly overwhelm any higher ranked adventurer if they manage to corner them.

The strangest thing was not this. But the fact. There were primitive traps placed all around the cave waiting for their victim to fall into them. Traps meant there was an intelligent undead. Capable of thinking inhabit the depths of this cave. That said they would find even more undead as they were heading deeper into the hole where thy entered.

"Be careful Nfirea-san. There are traps in the shadows. That means there will be an intelligent undead in this cave."

Nfirea nodded. "Maybe it is who control and lead this undead or maybe necromancer."

"That's certainly possible. If it is a necromancer, we had to be aware even more of your surroundings. They can be very crafty."

Nfirea nodded. And they continued their way deep into the heart of the cave. In their way, the two young boys encountered more and more. Weak skeletal warriors, zombies, and traps. It seemed the enemy and traps started to become more organized and organized with each of their steps.

Deeper into the cave they encountered even better-geared skeleton warriors who've wielded. Either a shield with a sword a bow or two handed large Claymore's. They were especially dangerous against the two boys because they were originally magic casters and the two of them started their physical training only approximately one and a half weeks ago.

Ninya was adventurer almost all of his life, and he was get used this kind of situations. But he was still recovering from his earlier grave injuries. So he was not one hundred percent.

The duo headed deeper and deeper into the cave. With each moment their determination grows. They worked together as a team. They still not get used to each other fighting style because the time what they adventured together were only two weeks. Not nearly enough time to get used to each other fighting style.

The other significant disadvantage what they had were Nfirea lack of experience. Ninya adventured all of his life in search of his sister. But Nfirea were only a herbologist and alchemist. He was one of the best. But still, he had no real fighting experience beside the few mission and training what Raidyn took them. But he was determinant. He wanted to protect the girl who he loved at any cost.

The duo headed forward using mostly only their weapons to advance between the many low leveled undead. They did not use any spells due the two young adventurer's wanted to reserve their spells to the stronger enemies ahead. It was an important rule when you adventured. Never use your trump cards against weaker enemies because you may need them against more powerful more thought enemies. The traps what they encountered were easily counter able. The traps consisted mostly of primitive wires to bear traps and pitfalls. They were quite annoying in the middle of the fight but nothing dangerous thanks to Ninya previous adventure experience.

After approximately half an hour fighting and trap deactivation. They arrived into a big oval like Hall. As the two boys entered the heart of the cave, their eyes widened. The whole hall was littered with gore and bones scattered around. The two boys almost dumped their load because of their sudden disgust. The smell and the sight were sickening. A feeling of discomfort ran through their spine as they looked around.

In the middle of the hall, an altar stood where a robed figure stood. In its hand, there was a sacrificial dagger. The figure slowly turned its head towards the two boys.

His face transformed into a sinister expression. "Well, well, well. It seems the heroes of the story arrived. But you are too late. I already finished the ritual." he smirked.

"Who are you? Why did you do this?" yelled Nfirea.

The necromancer turned to them. "You ask why? Why did I do this?"

"It will cause no harm if I tell you. Because soon you two will be a part of my infinite undead army. And I will descend in the new heights of the rank of Zuranon!"

"Zuranon? The necromancer society whose wants to replace humanity by undead and to rule them over. Raidyn-san defeated your leader in this area. So why are you still here?"

The pale necromancer started to snicker. "Yes. That mean girl defeated Khazit-sama and his disciples. But I am better than him! I will reach that height what he would never dare to dream off! I will become the new Grand Master of Zuranon! Nothing can stop me! Not even your annoying interference! You destroyed almost all of my minions! Now behold the power of Snickers!"

He turned back to the victim who laid unconsciously on the sacrificial altar and stabbed its abdomen opening it entirely. The blood started to gather around the necromancer and begun to swirl around him.

"Yes! Yes! I feel my power is growing with each moment! I will shed my human form and become much more. I transcend the human bounds!"

Nfirea and Ninya prepared their weapons. And used the silver substance what they previously sought. The two of them poured the silver liquid on their swords what evenly spread around their blades.

The remains what were scattered all around the big hall started to magnetically pull towards the tornado of swirling blood.

Nfirea turned to Ninya. "Ninya-san! Do you have any idea how should we stop it?"

Ninya gritted his teeth. "We can't do anything at this moment. The best of my knowledge. Rituals like this cannot be interrupted quickly. You need minimum a powerful magical artifact to do that."

"But if he is doing what I think he is. I think he will be vulnerable to fire-based attacks. Consider that I am not the most knowledgeable in this theme. I only encountered two necromancers in my life, and one almost killed me. My knowledge about this issue came from my master and books mostly."

Nfirea nodded. "I see. Then let's prepared our fire spells."

Soon the swirling blood tornado stopped and what they saw froze the blood in their veins. A massive abomination was approximately three meters tall. Broad shoulders clawed hands and malformed head with multiple eyes. On the top of its head. There was two horn sprouted towards the skies. On its stomach. There was a large malformed mouth.

"Behold and trembled! I finally reached my true form! No one can stop me! Not even that adamantine ranked girl! Not the kingdom, not the Empire! Not the Slaine Theocracy! Not even the Dragon Lords! Everyone will tremble the name Snickers as I consume all living in the world!"

The two boys shook a little because of the monstrous sight before them. But after they remembered what Raidyn said to them. They steeled themselves, and a spark of determination lit up in their eyes. Nfirea turned his head in the direction of Ninya.

"Ninya-san do you remember what Raidyn-san told us when we almost died because of her training."

Ninya nodded then responded. "She asked us what do we say when we meet the God of the death?"

Nfirea smiled. "We did not know how to answer her question first. But then after we were in the throat of the death. She said…"

"Not today..." Nfirea smiled while looked at the monstrosity

"Tremble little ones! Because here I come!" roared the monster and started its vicious charge.

The two boy readied them. They both prepared their fire based spells.

The two boys screeched their hands forward and shouted. "[Flare]!" from their palms two approximately fists sized fireball sprouted and hit the monster. The [Flare] were the lower tiered version of the fireball. It was not as strong. But it can be used by the lower tiered magic casters.

The former necromancer roared, but the flares can't disrupt its vicious charge. "Argh. Your pitiful spells are useless. I became immortal. Don't you see!?"

Ninya and Nfirea continued their attack. But it was no avail. It seemed the abomination simply shrug it all off.

When the monster reached them, they are jumped off from its way. The former necromancer Snickers hit the wall what were behind them causing the whole cave tremble because of the force which the monster collided with the wall. A few piece split off from the top of the cave and hit the monster. The monster roared because of the pain as its arm left. It quickly grabbed it and reconnected the arm stump with the rest of its body. The arm quickly reattached itself and it started to move its hand.

It raised its hand and started to move its clawed hand. "Now you finally see. I am immortal! I cannot be killed!"

"Ninya second attack plan." Ninya nodded in response. Nfirea prepared himself and charged towards the monster while Ninya supported him from the back with his spells.

Ninya ducked and swayed away from the monster strikes. The beast was very clumsy with its enormous clawed hands and bloated body. It even tried to eat him with the mouth on its stomach. But Nfirea just outmaneuvered him with his agility. Sometimes he even threw a few spells at close quarter. Mostly his acid and fire based spells what he knew will damage the former necromancer. But he did only a minimal amount of injury to it. Nfirea just retreated near his comrade in arms. Both of them were strained because of the long battle.

"What should we do Ninya-san?" asked Nfirea. Ninya has much more experience things like this because he was an adventurer longer time than Nfirea.

Ninya thought about their opportunities and looked around. Then he noticed the weapon oil in his pouch. He grabbed it and threw the bottle into the monster face. The former necromancer slowly approached them.

"Pointless! You can't hurt me attack like this!"

"Nfirea-san! Quickly use [Flare] on the monster!" Nfirea in response raised his arm and shot a ball of flame from his palm "[Flare]!" he shouted while he put the spell all of his mental power to produce hotter and stronger [Flare].

The monster laughed sadistically. Then its eyes widened as it realized what the boys planned. Snickers raised its hand, but it was too late. His monstrous from all drenched with the highly flammable oil what Ninya threw to it. The fist-sized fireball collided with its distorted skin and ignited the highly flammable oil.

Snickers started to roar viciously as his distorted and ignited form began to crumble because of the heat. He has begun to advance slowly towards Nfirea and Ninya while he swept away anything that is in his way with its clawed hands. Ninya and Nfirea were smart, so they were rather not waiting till the monster reaches them.

When the flames on the monster started to weaken. They just threw an another bottle of weapon oil on the monster reigniting in its skin. They played with the monster with a few more minutes. Sometimes barely escaping from the abomination clawed hands. But they managed it. After a few moments, the beast burning body collapsed on the ground. After another minute the fires has been extinguished, and there were only the monster broken, disfigured smoldering body.

Nfirea and Ninya walked over the body and decapitated its head.

They sighed in unison. "It is finally over," said Ninya with a tired tone

"Yeah. We made it. Although just barely..." they looked at each other and laughed in unison. After that Nfirea and Ninya looted the cave from its treasures and left to turn the quest in the Adventurer's Guild.

After the few hours of their leave. The smoldering remain tried to get up. But a black blade pierced the place where its heart supposed to be and completely rotted its body away.

"I-I just wanted to be…" with this last world the body disappeared.

Two more magical being with a human-like body shape that wears a black spider ninja costume which has eight legs that are like sharp blades descended from the ceiling. It seemed they appeared from the nowhere as they disabled their invisibility field.

"Objective complete. Esdeath-sama will be pleased. It was easy to lure that fool necromancer and his weak undead minions in this cave and make him raise the suspicion of the Adventurer's Guild." in response the two other spider-like creature nodded then disappeared from the sight.

After the three Eight, Edged Assassin's left a shadow appeared from the nothingness. It raised its hand and from the void. Snickers abomination form started to rise again. "Rise Snickers. You will serve the masters faithfully," it said in a dreadfully distorted voice what was the mix of man and female.

---

Scene Change: Ainz Forward Outpost:

Ainz main base was the fortress that Aura was constructing— the place that Cocytus visited yesterday. Faint construction noises could still be heard in the distance.

When they entered a room, Victim who had been following quietly behind said to Ainz.

"emoh gniog m'I ,syug uoy wercS… (Well then, allow me to bid farewell here.)" said Victim the Guardian of the 8th floor

"Thank you for your hard work. Please defend the first level of Nazarick until we return."

"amabO sknahT… (By your will)."

"「Portal」."

Victim went into the door of darkness conjured by Ainz— with the first level of the Great Tomb of Nazarick as his destination.

After seeing off the Guardian capable of activating a deadly powerful movement restriction skill, Ainz turned his attention towards the room. At the same time, he could sense Aura lowering her face.

She must have done everything she could to give Ainz a grand welcome. Traces that showed the worthy effort put into this room could be seen everywhere, but it paled in comparison to Nazarick. Aura probably felt shame from this.

"It is not that bad."

For Ainz who was just a salaryman, he didn't mind it that much. His room in Nazarick wasn't too bad either, but it troubled him as it was too luxurious. In fact, he felt relaxed and comfortable here.

"I want an eight tatami room. I should find a corner to prepare one. Oh, I have to compliment Aura and convey my satisfaction for her work."

If people don't talk about their trust gratitude and care, they won't become successful.

Ainz remembered a quote he saw framed inside the display cabinet of a CEO during a corporate visit. He didn't know who coined it, but it was a great quote. It felt like something an ideal boss will say.

"You have to show your gratitude. People won't strive for the best if there is no reward… Something like that?"

"My apologies Aura, for insisting on using this place. Do not mind the details; I have high praise for what you have accomplished. If you make this, then it is as good as Nazarick."

"... Yes."

Aura's eyes slightly widened. "I should console her more."

Although Ainz wanted to do that, no better words came to his mind, so he covered it up by observing the surroundings once again.

The smell of fresh timber still lingered here.

Normally, instead of this place that had absolutely no defenses, returning to Nazarick was unquestionably safer. Without defensive magic, it was like a house made of paper in a way. But on the flip side, Ainz was using himself as bait to lure in the big fishes.

There was a significant distance between here and the lake, so the ones that could chase them here — if they existed — would be players from YGGDRASIL or people at that level.

This meant that the purpose of building this place was to bait the enemies targeting Nazarick to reveal themselves.

It was dangerous of course, but Ainz felt the risk was necessary to achieve this goal.

„They are still not showing up. Could it be… Is the plan a failure? Anyway, what is that?"

"... Aura, I want to ask you. What is that thing?"

Ainz's gaze stopped on the lone white chair placed deep inside the room. The back was made high and imposing. It was made so well that it was no exaggeration to call it an art piece. If he ignores that one glaring issue.

"It's bit everyday, but I have prepared a throne."

The one answering confidently was the subordinate following behind him— Demiurge. "That's what I thought," Ainz said to himself in his mind and asked a further question while inspected the throne.

"— What bones did you use?"

"Bones from all sorts of beasts. The best parts are from beasts like Griffon and Wyvern. Zero-san helped to create it."

"... Oh… I see."

That was a throne made from countless bones. It wasn't on the logistics list of goods they brought from Nazarick, so it was something Demiurge created outside. No matter how he looked at it, skulls from humans or demihumans were used too. It might look pure white without a shred of blood and meat on it, but it still gave the feeling of the blood stain.

It was a bit disgusting, sitting on that thing was akin to sitting on a cushion of needles, making Ainz hesitate. But his subordinate had put effort to prepare it; it would be difficult to reject it. Is there any reason he could use that won't cause complaints...

Ainz snapped his fingers after thinking about it.

"... Shalltear. I will give you the punishment for what you had done right now. That's right… I will punish you with shame."

"Yes!"

Shalltear who was suddenly named was a bit surprised.

"Kneel with your head bowed over there, and put your hands on the floor."

"Yes!"

Shalltear walked to the place Ainz pointed at— which was the middle of the room and did as she was told with a baffled face.

Ainz walked up to Shalltear and sat on her back.

"... Ainz, Ainz-sama!"

The surprised Shalltear could only make exhale while whispering 'Hans-sama.' She was shaken and stiff from fear when Ainz sat on her back.

"You are now a chair, understand?"

"Yes!"

Ainz shifted his gaze from Shalltear whose voice was getting shrilled, onto Demiurge.

"— Sorry Demiurge, that's how it is."

"I see! Marvellous! To use a Guardian as a chair! This is a chair customized specifically for the Supreme Master! As expected of Ainz-sama. I would never have thought of that!"

"Is, is that so…"

In the face of the glittering respect shown on Demiurge was expressing, Ainz averted his face, not understanding why he was smiling so brilliantly. After this, a beautiful woman said to Ainz with a pleasant smile.

"My apologies Ainz-sama. Please allow me to excuse myself. I will return shortly."

"You need something Albedo? Permission granted, carry on."

After thanking him, Albedo left the room.

After Albedo left. A black oval portal appeared from the middle of nowhere.

The guardians prepared themselves to attack the foe if it is neccesary. But after they saw who was exiting the portal a relieved expression set out in their faces. Of course, not on Zero's face. His expression was always stoic and bored.

Esdeath in child form stepped out from the portal. "Sorry for being late. I had a few things what I had to take care."

"It is not problem Esdeath-san. The show will start soon. Do you briefed by the happenings?"

"Yes, I get a fast summary of the battle in the swamp. And the discussion in the throne room from Pandora's Actor."

"Esdeath-sama." everyone bowed like it was some choreography

Esdeath waved them back. "Hello, everyone." then she turned back to Ainz. "Once more I am sorry I can't be in our talk-over in the throne room."

Ainz raised his hand. "It is fine Esdeath-san. What matters is that. You are here."

Immediately, a woman screaming 'Hyaaahhhhhhh!' and the sound of a wall being smashed violently could be heard, and the whole fort seemed to be shaking.

"We are being attacked?" asked Esdeath.

"No. I think this was just Albedo," responded Momonga

Realizing what Momonga is sitting on Esdeath pointed in Shalltear direction. "Ainz-san. I know you have a few disturbing things. But I did not think. I will see you doing one of them. It is quite alarming."

"Th-This is not what are you thinking!?" he said in an almost panicked tone.

Esdeath chuckled. "Of course. Of course, tell this lies to yourself."

"You and your wild imagination Esdeath-san," mumbled Momonga

After a minute or so, Albedo returned to the room dominated by silence with her usual smile.

"I have returned, Ainz-sama. Oh right, Aura. I accidentally ran into the wall when I left the room. It seemed to be damaged, could you repair it later? I am very sorry."

"Ah, erm... Okay, I will get it done."

Albedo seeing Esdeath greeted her. "Esdeath-sama." she bowed deeply.

"Albedo." Esdeath nodded in response.

Ainz swallowed the words he wanted to say and sighed. He focused his wandering gaze and fixated on the staff emitting an aura of terror.

The real staff of Ainz Ooal Gown was not brought here; this was a replica— a prototype in replicating the guild weapon. Made from parts dug from the depths of the treasury, it was a prop that looked almost perfect on the outside.

The guild will fall if the guild weapon was destroyed, so it could not be brought out so carelessly. It was entrusted to the Guardian of the Cherry Blossom Zone in the 8th floor for protection right now.

„We did come up with countermeasures for if we got robbed of our rings, but it is not easy to just find a place… to test it out..."

As he was thinking about that, Shalltear suddenly fidgeted, adjusting herself for Ainz to sit more comfortably. This made Ainz look down at the back of Shalltear's head with a strange sense of unease.

Her breathing was ragged.

„It must be heavy for her."

Under Ainz was the slim back of Shalltear who looked to be fourteen. A grown man was sitting on the back of this young girl. Realizing how perverted, shameful and cruel that was, Ainz felt he might have gone too far.

Shalltear was an NPC created by his companion in the past. Even Peroronchino wouldn't abuse her like this. This action was akin to soiling the memories of his past comrades. It was foolish to think of this as a self-punishment.

„To torture Shalltear like this… unforgivable."

"Shalltear, does it hurt?"

Ainz was planning to say 'if that is so, let's end this.' Shalltear looked up with a face blushing with passion, her expression full of pleasure.

"It's not painful at all! This is like a reward!"

She kept exhaling the heat stored within her body, reflecting Ainz' face in her dazed eyes. Her wet tongue brushed against her lips, reflecting light lecherously. She squirmed her body like a snake.

"... Hnngh!"

Ainz felt the urge to get away immediately.

"Reward? I know Shalltear have a few fetishes, but this is strange." thought Esdeath while Ainz considered to simply leave the room.

He almost gave in to this urge.

„No, I can't do that."

He was punishing Shalltear, but Shalltear's mistake was Ainz' fault. That's why enduring the urge to get up was Ainz' punishment.

Ainz destroyed the complicated emotions welling up within him.

He tried his best to ignore the chair that was panting and squirming. But he couldn't help thinking Peroronchino, what a perverted setting this is.

"... Well then, let's move on to the serious topic. Did we intimidate them?"

"I think it was perfect, Ainz-sama," said Demiurge with a respectful tone

"Exactly, just look at the lizardmen's faces."

Ainz smiled in relief after hearing what the Guardians said. It was impossible to tell the changes in the expressions of the lizardmen. They might be closer to humans than reptiles, but their facial expressions were entirely different from humans.

"Is that so. Then the first phase to awe them with might is a success."

Ainz exhaled in relief.

He used the Super-tier magic 'The Creation' that could only be used four times a day after all. If that didn't work, nothing else would.

"Demiurge, how long would it take to find out exactly how large the frozen area is?"

"We have already started to do so, but progress is slow as the area is wider than expected. Please grant us more time."

Ainz stopped Demiurge who was about to kneel. Ainz covered his mouth with his bony finger and thought. The area of effect being larger than expected could be considered a success regarding magical experimentations.

'The Creation' is a Super-tier magic that could change the terrain itself. In YGGDRASIL, it was used to guard against the heat of volcanoes or the cold of freezing lands.

It was possible to show their might without using Super-tier magic.

Unrelated to this deployment, Ainz had always wanted to perform this experiment in determining the area of effect. 'The Creation' was a magic that had an amazingly large area of effect and could cover the entire 8th floor in Ainz's experiment inside Nazarick. But it wasn't clear what effect it would have in the world outside.

In YGGDRASIL the spell effect could cover an 'Area,' but how big would an 'Area' be in this world? Ainz wanted to find out. If it could include an entire plain, that would be too big.

Similarly, freezing the entire lake was going overboard. Care should be taken when using Super-tier magic.

"Aura, how is our security net?"

"Yes! We have deployed the undead assigned by Ainz-sama to secure a two-kilometer radius area. But there has been no signs of anything special coming in so far. I have also sent monsters specializing in scouting to patrol the area within 4 km, but we have not spotted anything suspicious."

"I see… The enemy might be hiding from detection as they draw close, what about the countermeasures against that?"

"There are no problems. With Shalltear's cooperation, we have sent out undead proficient in reconnaissance."

"Splendid."

"Good work guys!" Esdeath showed them a thumb up.

Aura smiled happily after Ainz and Esdeath praised her. Her sad expression was gone without a trace.

"We have exposed ourselves to this extent, why haven't the people who used the World class item against Shalltear or that strange plant monster master made a move?"

Ainz asked again under the gaze of everyone present but did not direct his question to anyone in particular.

"Why aren't they performing surveillance on Nazarick and this place?"

"Could it be that they are surveilling us with World class items that could not be detected by ordinary means?"

Ainz tilts his head in response to Demiurge's counter question.

"... I did consider this possibility; that's why we use Momon and Raidyn… If they are using World class item to spy on us, they wouldn't be able to spy on Momon or Raidyn who also owns a World class piece. That's why I have been assuming they will use physical means such as scouts to watch us… They might use magic surveillance too, but it should be conventional means..."

Ainz realized the Guardians around him seemed confused, which meant his explanation wasn't clear enough.

"Well… How should I put this… In the past, we owned a mine that could generate a type of metal that was rare. As we were monopolizing the supply, the market price for it soared, and people started scheming to rob it from us. The item they used that time was Ouroboros. It was a top World class item known as one of the 'Twenty.'"

Ainz narrowed his eyes.

„Yes. That it a nasty world item. I hated when they did that. It was simply not ethical." snarled Esdeath.

Ainz was raging mad when he just got robbed, but looking back, it was a beautiful piece of memory even though they were massacred and dropped plenty of rare items.

"Outrageous! They dare usurp the territory ruled by the Supreme Beings?! Unforgivable! Please give us the order to counterattack!"

Hearing how angry Albedo was made Ainz turn his gaze.

He could see the hostility and killing intent released by all the Guardians; even the calm Demiurge was revealing a sinister smile. Not just that, even Mare's reserved expression couldn't conceal his urge to attack. Ainz couldn't see Shalltear's face as she was acting as a chair, but from her stiffened body, her determination was conveyed to Ainz through his rear. Zero always calm faces changed and his uncovered eye started to twitch because of his anger.

"Albedo-san. We already reclaimed what is ours. So, please don't be so mad about it." Esdeath tried to calm down Albedo.

Albedo was waiting for answers turned to Momonga who only nodded to her.

Ainz raised his hand to calm the Guardians. They looked more settled, but they still felt unstable as if magma was flowing beneath the surface. To change the topic, Ainz continued what he was saying.

"The enemy used Ouroboros to stop us from entering the 'World' the mine was situated in. They probably used this chance to search the vicinity and seize the mine. When the seal was undone, we went in only to find that the mine had been conquered."

During the foolish attempt to take back the mine, about half the guild members died at least once. Ainz held back on and didn't say this out loud.

"I will get to the main point. I mentioned that we were denied access to that 'World, ' but people with World class items could still enter that 'World.' Hence, it is impossible for them to spy on us even with the strongest World class item."

As Ainz listened to the enlightened acknowledgment from his subordinates, he still bore doubts on whether this was true.

The possibility was high, but there was no evidence to prove that it was true.

When using 'Conflict of the Five Elements' which was also a 'Twenty' like 'Ouroboros,' the game company sent a message to the owners World class items. Aside from an apology, they also posted an item as compensation. The content of the apology message was: "Bearers of World class items, by right, you should be exempted from any changes to the world. But it is very challenging to maintain your data while we update the server. Therefore, we have no other choice but to treat this as an exceptional case as we refresh the server."

And so, it was impossible for them to defend against this. But that event should be the exception instead of the norm.

Especially the World class item that could defend against reconnaissance magic. It would be meaningless if it couldn't protect Nazarick from other World class items.

"And that is why I thought the enemy would approach Momon or Raidyn… But those who do approach are mothers carrying newborn babies and adventurers."

They asked Momon and Raidyn to pat the kids' head to bless them with health and strength. The adventurers requested a handshake and wished to become stronger, but no one wanted to converse with them in private.

That's why Ainz exposed himself with weak defenses this time, waiting for the enemy to make their move.

Not equipping Cocytus with a World class item was part of the plan. Ainz scheduled to use him as bait to lure the enemy out. It seemed scary because the enemy was unknown, and they could come up with proper countermeasures after ascertaining who the enemy was.

"Regarding this issue… May I share my humble opinion?" Ainz turned his head towards Albedo

"What is it, Albedo?"

"Yes, as Ainz-sama explained, the plan was to smoke the enemy out. Could the enemy be reluctant to approach us since they too are operating in the dark, just like us?"

...Ah.

"No… problem, Albedo, I already considered that possibility."

He didn't. Ainz was assuming the enemy was thinking the same thing as him, trying to gather intelligence on him.

„… What an error. Did I get it wrong from the very beginning?" he looked to Esdeath. „I wonder if Esdeath-san considered that thing. "Esdeath turned to Ainz. „There is something in my face?" she asked.

„No, it is nothing. I am just in the middle of planning." Esdeath nodded in response.

"Excuse me, also…"

„Albedo-san, please stop—„

Ainz cried in his heart. He felt like a candidate who was reviewing the question script after the exam and realized all his answers were wrong.

"About releasing the information that Shalltear was defeated with items…"

"Yes, that's what Esdeath-san reported to the guild, that is to prevent the people from fearing Esdeath if she gets too powerful. Rare magical weapons seemed to be a rare item here; it must be difficult to destroy the weapon for experiments. Destabilizing the weapon and using it to defeat Shalltear is a more convincing story, and people would be less guarded against Raidyn."

"You are right. For the people who think those good weapons is rare, this isn't a wrong method."

Albedo's a roundabout way of speaking made Ainz feel uneasy.

"... But if the other party possessing multiple weapons like Ainz-sama, wouldn't the situation be different?"

"... Hmm? Ah, that's what you mean."

Ainz made a rational expression but didn't understand at all.

So what if the another party is possessing several magical artifacts? It was a fact that magical object was valuable in this world. Was Albedo worried about the weapon being broken during experiments?

But that didn't seem to be all.

An ominous feeling flashed across Ainz' mind. He wanted Albedo to explain further, which made Ainz hate himself for acting cocky earlier.

"Is it okay for me to be the ruler and decide the policies of Nazarick? Am I steering a ship up a mountain without knowing it?"

Ainz felt like running away.

He couldn't bear the burden of a ruler he had experienced several times — a charge that grew heavier in the face of failure — Ainz kept complaining in his heart.

But he couldn't do that. Since he took the name of Ainz Ooal Gown, he couldn't abandon the creations of his comrades nor his last remaining friend— the NPC and the treasures in the Great Tomb of Nazarick. More importantly, he didn't want to be a parent that abandoned his children.

"I also worry whether you all will betray, abandon or give up on me. Nonetheless, I will act the part of Ainz Ooal Gown that meets your expectations and is worthy of your trust."

And so, Ainz made a relaxed expression he practiced before the mirror and said in a pose filled with the confidence of an Overlord.

"No problem, I understand why you feel uneasy."

"Don't worry Albedo-san. Everything going according to Ainz-san plans," interjected Esdeath.

"I know you just want to help me Esdeath-san. But sometimes you will make things even worse." Momonga sweatdropped inwardly because of his comrade comment.

Ainz then looked around him.

"Albedo… Do share your worries with the other Guardians."

"Ah, yes! If the enemy is possessing multiple weapons like Esdeath-sama… Someone who knows about weapons, they would be able to tell this information is false. They will be sure that Shalltear was not defeated by the weapon— although they couldn't know if Shalltear was at full strength, users of World class item will assume that Raidyn is as strong as Shalltear. They will then conclude the mysterious spell blade Raidyn who suddenly appeared in E-Rantel is someone dangerous right? They might also suspect that Shalltear might be related to Raidyn and through her to Momon…"

Esdeath nodded in agreement. "It is a certain unknown Albedo. But the future is like a dice and always changing. Reacting everyone's interference evenly. You can only predict events within your parameters. You can't predict it 100% accuracy."

Ainz nodded then looked around. "... Albedo, and Guardians, what do you think the enemies' next step would be?"

"Pardon me. I believe that if our foes plan to oppose Ainz-sama, they will spread rumors of Raidyn working together with the vampire even if there is no proof. They would not want Raidyn to gain further fame."

"Urghhh"— Ainz moaned in his heart.

Part of the goal of going to E-Rantel and the Dragon Kingdom was to gather intelligence, but the primary target was to raise the fame of the Raidyn and Momon persona— and a tiny part of wanting to run away. The original plan was to wait for the great hero to be born and then reveal Momon's and Raidyn's real identity, turning all their fame to that of Ainz Ooal Gown, spreading this name throughout the world.

He also wanted to show his PK guild will change in this world, so he did the right thing deeds using the name of Momon and Raidyn. But these plans were probably done for.

"Hmm? Demiurge, let me ask you, would it be more efficient if such rumors were spread after Momon and Raidyn became famous?"

"Aura, that would be a bad move. If Ainz-sama and Esdeath-sama had garnered fame enough, the masses would just think of such news as malicious rumors. They should cut off the roots before their fame grows."

"An excellent insight, Demiurge."

Ainz and Esdeath nodded in response to Demiurge who was bowing his head, acting as if Ainz had the same idea.

"I will ask another question. If that is so, why hasn't the enemy started spreading rumors yet?"

After hearing Ainz' query, Demiurge raised a finger.

"Number one, they have not completed their investigation on Momon-sama and Raidyn-sama yet. If Raidyn-sama did defeat Shalltear in a straight fight, they wouldn't want to incur her wrath. They ought to pull her into their camp. Number two—"

He raised another finger.

"What if their encounter with Shalltear was just a coincidence? They might have been passing by with some other purpose in mind, just some unrelated third party."

"That is impossible, Demiurge, the possibility is very small…"

Ainz said that he just realized this scenario wasn't impossible.

He was entirely convinced that the attack had been targeted at Shalltear— or targeted at the denizens of Nazarick. But Shalltear was attacked shortly after teleporting. If the assault had been aimed at Shalltear, they had been eerily precise.

Was he blinded by the fear of the unseen enemy?

Ainz narrowed his eyes— or rather, the red glow in his eye sockets.

In the end, the problem was faulty intelligence and being shorthanded. They needed more power.

„Anyway, the biggest problem is that our data network is too small. We need to spread our reach further."

Sebas had been tasked with that too, but the intelligence gathered by a handful of agents were limited. In the beginning, he thought it would be enough to gain necessary information about this world, but that wasn't sufficient in the current situation.

The intelligence gathered by two adventurers and the butler of a merchant had less importance and quality than that of a high government official.

Ainz couldn't think of anyone who could analyze the gathered intel from different angles and judge whether the Intel was critical.

"Ara ara, the biggest problem is the lack of Intel. We have to be wary of an enemy we couldn't see, which made it hard for us to make our move..."

After listening to Ainz' complain, Demiurge smiled as if he had a very good idea.

"If that is the case, how about joining forces with a country?"

After a short silence, Albedo said "Oh." to express that she had understood. Ainz made the same sound moments later.

"I see Demiurge; that's what you mean."

But the other three Guardians were still tilting their head in confusion. Aura admitted her doubts honestly.

"That would be not the brightest idea Demiurge-san."
"What do you mean Esdeath-sama?" inquired Demiurge.

"Ainz-san. Do you allow me to help them understand?" Ainz nodded in response.

Esdeath smiled under her nose. "Nazarick serves no one If we join our forces with someone. Then that one's we will gradually convert into our pawns. And when they will came under our complete control. We simply use their resources and influence to benefit our operations."

"Ainz-sama, what does this mean?"

Facing Aura's question, Ainz felt relieved that he couldn't show any facial expression.

"Ara ara… Mare, Shalltear, do you understand what Demiurge and Esdeath-sama are talking about?"

The two of them shook their heads.

"I see, it couldn't be helped. Demiurge, please explain."

"Yes, by your will. Everyone, Ainz-sama is worried about this unknown enemy. I think that if we encounter this strong enemy and both sides are openly hostile to each other, we will need a breakthrough point that could solve our issues during negotiations."

„Sensei, I don't understand"— Three students and one adult seemed to have these words carved on their faces. Teacher Demiurge appears to realize his explanation was too vague and continued by accommodating the standards of his students.

"What will you do if either Ainz-sama or Esdeath-sama is controlled by a World class item user?"

"I will cut that person into pieces."

"... No, that's not what I mean, Aura. Don't you think that being controlled is a breakthrough point? In fact, some people could control their opponent with World class items, so the possibility of Ainz-sama or Esdeath-sama being controlled is not zero."

The deputy homeroom teacher Albedo added to teacher Demiurge's explanation.

"He means after pretending to join under the flag of a country; Nazarick could use this as an excuse for any actions we take in the future. We can just say that we are acting under the orders of that country and didn't have a choice. If the powerful enemy exists, we could shift the responsibility to that country, correct? If the enemy doesn't want a confrontation, they will do their best to accommodate us."

"I see… if there are people who are unhappy with them, we can use this excuse to pull this third party to our side… That's the idea. As expected of Ainz-sama…"

Just like the boss of an evil organization stroking a cat on his lap, Ainz patted the head of Shalltear who was acting as a chair as he said. "It's not me."

"The one who came up with this plan wasn't me, but Demiurge. He should be the one who deserved this praise."

"No, you flatter me. Ainz-sama seems to have reached this conclusion before I did."

"Ah, well yeah. My apologies for seemingly snatching your credit. And on top of that, it will be much easier for us to garner intelligence."

A country should already have a data network in place. They would be able to progress by leap and bounds just by sending a minion of Nazarick in.

After learning his advice was of use for Ainz and Ainz's manner of speech as if he was confirming the two brilliant Guardians made Demiurge smile.

"It is just as you said."

Ainz knew that Demiurge was implying that Ainz knew from the very beginning.

"Ah, as expected of Ainz-sama, to have thought about this so thoroughly… Hmmm… Such lowly beings like humans could be of use too."

After Albedo comment, the other Guardians — including Shalltear who was relegated to being a chair — showered Ainz with sparkling gaze of admiration.

It made Ainz feel uneasy, but he felt relief that he didn't get it wrong when the two of them agreed with him.

"Well then… let's target a country."

"If we consider the nations in the vicinity, it would be the Kingdom, the Empire, and the Theocracy."

"Wha, what about countries further away? Such as the Republic and the Holy Kingdom."

"I would advise against choosing nations that are far away, and I don't want to come into contact with the Theocracy before I have adequate intelligence about them. That leaves the Kingdom and the Empire… And from the information gathered by Sebas, the Kingdom isn't that appealing to me, but… we will need to research this further."

Ainz extended his hand towards the mirror after saying "By the way."

"We gave the lizardmen a bit of time, let's see whether anything unexpected is happening."

"I expecting a good fight. Go for it Cocytus. Go!" Esdeath cheered for Cocytus.

Momonga sighed then turned to Esdeath. "Esdeath-san. This is a punishment for Cocytus. Not a reward."

"Still… I am expecting a good fight." Esdeath puffed her cheek adorably

Momonga sighed deeply. "You are incorrigible Esdeath-san…"

"I know right!" Esdeath said proudly. The guardians only smiled because they knew Esdeath playful nature and they did not mind it. It brought a little color in their gray days.

The bird's eye view of the lizardmen's village appeared on the mirror of remote viewing, with tiny spots moving around.

Ainz reached out towards the mirror and gestured, changing the scenery on the mirror.

The first time, of course, was to zoom in.

The sight of the lizardmen working hard to prepare for war was shown completely.

"Futile efforts."

Demiurge murmured at the lizardmen gently.

"Let me see, where are they. It's hard to tell the lizardmen apart."

Ainz searched for the six lizardmen he had seen in the recording with a frown on his face.

"Hmmm— found the armored one. That's the one that threw rocks, right? Next, the buster sword is here. The difference is too minute. Finding those with prominent colors or equipment is easy… Found the one with the extended arm."

After observing that, Ainz kept shifting the image on the mirror.

"... I don't see the white lizardman and the one holding the magic weapon."

"Ermm… the one called Zaryusu?"

"Ah, right, that's his name."

Ainz recalled the lizardman who had come forth to negotiate at Aura's prompt.

"Could he be inside the houses?"

"Probably."

But the mirror of remote viewing wasn't able to see inside buildings. That was the case, normally.

"Demiurge, Infinity Haversack please."

"By your will."

Demiurge bowed and moved to the table in the corner of the room and picked up the Infinity Haversack. He presented it to Ainz respectfully. Ainz took out one scroll from within.

He then activated the magic within the scroll.

An invisible, ethereal sensory organ was conjured. The sensory organ can't penetrate magical barriers, but it can pass through standard walls regardless of their thickness. If it couldn't get in, it meant that a powerful enemy they had to be wary of was there.

After linking the sensory organ with the mirror of remote viewing so the Guardians could also see, Ainz started maneuvering the sensory organ that looked like a floating eyeball.

"Let's take a look inside the house."

Ainz chose an old broken house nearby and moved the sensory organ in. Even if the interior were dark, it would show up as bright as day once the organ got in.

In that room, a white lizardman was being pressed down with its tail lifted up. A black lizardman was riding on top.

Baffling.

Ainz didn't understand what was going on in the very beginning. The next instant, that changed to confusion as to why they are doing that thing at a time like this.

Ainz then moved the sensory organ outside silently.

"..."

"…"

Esdeath started to snicker and whisper under her nose. "Boing! Boing!"

Feeling troubled, Ainz placed his palm on his face. The Guardians by his side didn't know what to say and looked at each other.

Demiurge: "— What an unpleasant bunch. Cocytus will be attacking soon, and they still have the nerve to do this?!"

Aura: "That's right, that's right!"

Mare: "Ah, well, erm…"

Shalltear: "Demiurge is correct. Let's teach them a lesson!"

Albedo: "How envious…"

Ainz lifts a hand to stop the chatter of the Guardians.

"Don't be like that guys! You would want to enjoy your last moments. Don't you?"

Demiurge nodded and smiled because he knew what Esdeath thought. "Certainly."

"... Forget it; they will be dead soon. I saw a movie once that desperate situations like these will stimulate their instinct to reproduce."

Ainz nodded to affirm his opinion.

Demiurge: "You are right!"

Aura: "If it's only this much, we can let them off~."

Shalltear: "Right, right!" Shalltear nodded under Ainz

Mare: "Erm, ah, that…"

Albedo: "Me too, with Ainz-sama…"

Ainz: "... All of you be quiet." he turned to Esdeath. "Esdeath-san. Please don't influence them in the wrong way."

Esdeath sighed and looked ashamed. "You are right Ainz-san. Sorry…"

After all the Guardians had shut their mouth, Ainz sighed.

"... I think I lost my drive, but never mind. There shouldn't be anyone we need to look out for in the village. But we can't drop our guard; someone might be heading our way. Aura…"

Ainz suddenly stopped moving and stared at the two children.

"Oh no! I messed up! They are not old enough for sex ed yet… No, it's way too soon for that!"

Ainz felt he could empathize with how a father feels when an intense sex scene comes up while watching TV with the whole family.

"What are parents supposed to answer when their children ask them 'where do babies come from'? Shit! I did let Simmering Teapot's kids saw that kind of scene— Eh; it should be okay. Ignoring Albedo, Demiurge… will probably explain it from a medical angle… That will be the backup plan. Shalltear… she seemed to be fine. Anyway, I will remember this as an issue to be resolved later. But Esdeath-san. I think she is mature enough to solve her problems. But in her new body, I am not sure enough. If she is not used her new assets yet. Aghh. Why I have to endure this!"

After pushing the problem to the back of his mind, Ainz coughed and said:

"If the security net reveals anything, all the Guardians and I will move out together."

If a player from YGGDRASIL did exist, Ainz didn't plan to honor the agreement he made to let the lizardmen village go. If the other party doesn't join them, they will be destroyed by Nazarick's full might to prevent intel from leaking. If that was the case, Ainz will destroy the village even if he had to throw in all the forces from the eighth floor and permits Esdeath to exert her full might. What probably could wipe out the whole country with a whim. After what they saw in the battle with that strange monster.

Ainz shook off the guilt of betraying the promise he made with Cocytus. If it was for the sake of something of the utmost importance, a white lie could smooth things over.

"... Alright then, now we wait for the show to start… and admire Cocytus' combat prowess."

"Go! Cocytus. Go!" cheered Esdeath

---

Omake:

In the big dorm of Ainz. The six battle Pleiades stood before Ainz and Albedo while Ainz is waiting for their introduction. He accidentally used an item on himself what temporarily turned off his passive emotion suppression. The item what he used was the Total Maniac. The Total Maniac is a magic item from YGGDRASIL that cancels the sundae's immunity to status changes. An adamant weapon against undead.

Total Maniac is a red triangular party popper with a golden Grammy-like statue sticking out of it. Attached to its string is a warning that says "do not pull."

"I think my emotions are calming down!" thought Ainz happily.

"Could it be…? The effect of the Total Maniac is wearing off. I have to confirm it." mused Ainz

"Let's see. When I groped Albedo's breast last time..." Albedo recognizing Ainz staring at her cleavage quickly turned to Ainz with an excited expression. Then started to fondle them together.

"Please, Ainz-sama, grope it as much as you wish!"

"Like hell, I will!" Growled Ainz while an Aura of Darkness radiated from him.

Albedo face turned depressive because she did not get the grope what she waited for. "I-I am sorry!"

"Good grief." thought Ainz. Then he realized he did not panic anymore. "Hey, I didn't panic just now! The effect has worn off already?" he mused.

"Ainz-sama." stepped forward Yuri Alpha

"Oops, that won't do. I have to tell everyone in the Pleiades that they don't have to converse with me casually anymore."

Albedo cleared his non-existent throat. "Hmm, Albedo and ladies of the Pleiades."

"I understand clearly now that everyone is not used to following that order I issued."

Ainz tone changed more dangerous than he used to. "From henceforth, play time is over."

He suddenly raised his left skeletal hand. "It is fine for everyone to act like you used to."

"Yes!" all of them said in unison.

After the Pleiades left Ainz brought up from the Treasury the last nine remaining Total Maniac.

"I had a hard time all because of these damn items. And there is still nine more of them left."

"To avoid the same mistake, I should read the instruction manual carefully." he raised the instruction manual what he held in his hand.

"Let's see… If certain conditions are met, Total Maniac will-" he is interrupted by a knock.

"Uh-oh, I better read it later." he acted hastily and put away the instruction paper.

"What?" said Ainz with his definite deep voice while turned towards his double door.

"Ainz-sama." the sweet female voice came from behind the door. "The Pleiades is seeking an audience once again to present their suggestion. Meanwhile,e Esdeath-sama too arrived to speak with you."

"I don't mind, let them in."

The six Pleiades, Albedo, and Esdeath walked into the room.

"Yo! Ainz-san."

"Welcome Esdeath-san." he waved at her.

When they reached the box three-meter radius the items in the box started to emit bright yellow light.

Ainz turned to the box. "Huh? What's going on?"

The scene froze. And Esdeath walked into the scene.

"Let me explain! Magic Item Total Maniac will automatically reveal it's true power if certain conditions are met!"

Scene Unfroze:

"Heh!" Ainz tone was surprised.

Scene Froze:

"It is real power is to ignore racial restriction, throwing all the characters into a state of confusion!" Esdeath chuckled evilly. "Fortunately I put Ainz's-san room with full of cameras. Finally, I will have something new what I can laugh in my empty hours and maybe some blackmail material. I am so evil doesn't I?" she smirked.

"By the way, the conditions are, when there are minimum eight of the item, and in the vicinity, there are Undead, Imp, Dullahan, Werewolf, Doppelganger, Shaggoth, Arachnid, Automaton all gather in one place!"

Scene Unfroze:

"What is with that impossibly specific condition?!" yelled Ainz while all nine red party popper activated.

Ainz suddenly grabbed his head two sides while trembled. "I am unable to calm down again!"

He turned to the Pleiades behind him.

"Ehhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!?"

Narberal grew bunny ears and started a silly dance. "Narberal, dancing is totally out of character for you!"

Entoma rested on a cloud of bugs what howered her above the ground. "Entoma, flying! Flying! Flying!" panicked Momonga.

He went towards solution which is munched on something in her bloated form. "What are you eating, Solution?"

Shizu stood on her head instead of on her legs and shook wildly. It seemed she would blow up soon.

"CZ, you are shaking hard, are you okay?" then she started to smoke.

"Ainz-sama!" came the voice from behind his back. Ainz slowly turned around to see Lupusregina Beta. He froze for a moment.

"The energetic and reckless Lupusregina, if she goes wild…"

But what he saw that was not what he is expected. Lupusregina stood behind him completely calm like a good girl.

"Why is she acting all prim and proper?" thought Ainz nervously.

Then suddenly from out of nowhere she acquired a flower and held it close to her face. "Flowers are lovely."

"Albedo?" he looked around. When he saw him, he sweat dropped. "…somehow, she is the same as usual-"Albedo stared Momonga with lustful eyes. Then she jumped towards Momonga. "Momonga-samaaa!"

While Albedo tried to kiss him, Momonga panicked. "This is bad; this is dreadful!"

He suddenly pushed Albedo away, "Th-That's right! Yuri! Yuri is…" he looked towards Yuri Alpha who stood on the top of the few stars what is in Momonga's suite.

Yuri detached her head from her neck. "Burn it all brightly…" imaginary bright red flames danced around her.

"… my youthful days!" after this she rolled her head away like it was a bowling ball.

Momonga panic continued. He started to search for his friends when he looked down to his right side. His last remaining friend came to his sight. She looked down like something horrible happened. Her eyes were all black like darkness. And a twilight aura of wail surrounded her.

He came closer to his friend. "E-Esdeath-san? Are you okay?"

Esdeath turned her head towards him slowly. Her face transformed into a sinister smile. Then she started to firstly calmly tell then shout the strangest things what Momonga ever heard. "What if I said..." there were a moment of silence then... "GOTTA CATCH 'Em ALL!" She threw her hands into the air, and she jumped into Momonga neck and raised one of her swords in her left hand. "Go my faithful mount! We can't waste any more time here! There are many more adventures out there! WE GOTTA CATCH 'EM ALL!"

" It is over nine thousand! YOU SHALL NOT PASS! NOW YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THE FULL POWER OF THE DARK SIDE! POWER OVERWHELMING!" she started to shout similar nonsense thing while she rode on Ainz neck.

Momonga while panicked tried to shake off Esdeath from his neck while the Pleiades and Albedo continued their rampage.

---

A/N: I would like to thank everyone who reading, reviewing, favoriting and following my story. YOU GUYS AND GIRLS AND ANY OTHER UNSPECIFIED GENDERED PERSONS ARE ALL AWESOME!

I would like to turn towards you with a request.

If anyone is willing to be my beta reader and correct my numerous grammatical and other mistakes, please send me a PM. It would greatly help me out.

Thank you, everyone, for hearing me out. Have a beautiful day!