Disclaimer: The following events are presented between chapter 11 and 12. This is an alternate story based on the novel "Overlord" created by Kugane Maruyama. I do not claim ownership of the original work or any of its characters.
Chapter 1. Down into Madness.
As the bright morning sun rose, its light filtered through the cold winds that surrounded me and my friend Gante as we prepared to set off on our journey. As traveling traders, this was just another day in our mundane lives. We ate a light breakfast and were ready to embark on our next adventure. The path we walked was a familiar one, and we strolled leisurely, chatting about the latest happenings in the world around us. Our conversation turned towards a new kingdom, one that was ruled by an undead king. We laughed at the audacity of the idea, the thought of a vicious creature ruling a nation seemed ridiculous.
As we continued our journey, we felt secure on the road, which lay beside the woods. But suddenly, everything changed. I found myself in complete darkness, without a source of light to save me from the void. All I could hear was a voice, a voice that was dragging me down to hell. The voice was so deep and tortuous that all I could think about was running away from it. But where could I run on this frightening darkness? I hoped that it was just a prank by Gante, but as the voice kept getting closer, I realized that this was no joke. As my soul felt like it was leaving my body, I could sense the entity that was responsible for this torment. The voice demanded to know what I knew about the Wizard King Ainz Ooal Gown. The fear that gripped me was almost unbearable, and I knew that whatever was happening was far beyond my comprehension.
As the entity stands there in the dark cave, his armor seems to glow with an otherworldly radiance, casting an eerie light across the damp walls. The intricate designs etched into the metal seem to shift and dance in the flickering light, imbued with a power beyond mortal comprehension. Each plate of the armor is intricately crafted, every line and curve perfect in its execution. There are runes etched into the metal, glowing with a faint golden light, pulsing with the power of the divine.
The entity stands still, unmoving and silent, as if contemplating some great and mysterious purpose. Though his face is hidden beneath the dark helm, one can sense a great intelligence and power emanating from within the armor. It is as if he is a force of nature, a being beyond the scope of mortal understanding. For a moment, there is only silence in the cave, the only sound the faint drip of water from the ceiling. Then, with a suddenness that startles the very air around him, the entity speaks.
"Who are you?" His voice is deep and sonorous, rumbling like thunder through the cave. "What do you know about Ainz Ooal Gown?"
The entity's eyes are hidden behind the dark visor of his helmet, but there is a sense of power emanating from within, a force of will that could move mountains or part seas. He waits patiently for a response, as if he has all the time in the world. As the being's red eyes peered into the soul of the trembling man before him, he asked the question once more, "What do you know about Ainz Ooal Gown?" But as the man remained silent, the being grew impatient and decided to take matters into his own hands. With a mere thought, he activated his magic, "Draining mind Lv 1", causing the man to fall lifeless at his feet. The being's black, full plate armor shimmered in the light as he stared at the corpse with a sense of detachment, his mind focused on the information he could glean from this encounter.
The knowledge he gained was not enough to satisfy his curiosity about the kingdom ruled by Ainz Ooal Gown, but it did provide him with a sense of direction. The being knew he was currently south of the Slane Theocracy, but that his next destination lay to the north. With the sun shining down on his armor, a combination of black and blue with a few stains of blood, he emerged from his cave ready to seek out friend or foe.
Using the skill "True form Lv 1", he summoned a pair of devil wings from his back and took to the skies with incredible speed. As he soared through the air, leaving even the sound behind, the being felt a sense of excitement. Despite the dark path that had led him to this new world, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of anticipation for what lay ahead. As the being continued on his journey, his mind was consumed with a thirst for power and a desire to unleash his newfound strength upon the world. The memory of his former life and the people he once knew faded into the background as he became more and more entranced by the possibility of dominating this new world. His heart had been corrupted by the darkness of his isolation, and he relished in the sense of control and domination that came with each use of his dark magic. The weight of his armor and the heat of the sun on his black and blue plates only served to fuel his desire to destroy and conquer. With each step he took, the ground trembled beneath his feet, and the air around him seemed to grow heavy with a sense of foreboding. It was clear that this being was no ordinary monster - he was something far more dangerous, a creature that could bring the world to its knees.
As he continued on his journey, his eyes scanned the horizon for any signs of life. He longed for a challenge, for a battle that would test the limits of his power and push him to the brink of his abilities. He knew that the only way to truly satisfy his thirst for destruction was to find a worthy opponent - someone who could match his strength and prove themselves a true rival. And so he marched on, his devil wings beating furiously against the sky as he searched for any signs of life in this new, strange world. Though he had no idea what lay ahead, he was certain of one thing - he would stop at nothing to achieve his ultimate goal: total domination.
Foire, a meticulous maid, informs Ainz of liches arriving with information from Albedo. Overwhelmed by the pile of documents, Ainz wonders if everything is urgent, but knows a good boss cannot pass off his duties. Despite silently sobbing, he remains stoic, surrounded by a mountain of paperwork. He longs for his peaceful life as a salaryman in Japan, but responsibilities as the Great Tomb of Nazarick's ruler prevent it. Although the idea of returning to the Dwarf kingdom comforts him, pressing matters need immediate attention. As the leader, he puts on a brave face, ensuring the prosperity of his people, despite his internal turmoil.
As Ainz was resigned to his fate as the leader of the Great Tomb of Nazarick, a message from Aura interrupted his thoughts. She reported that something had entered their territory at a breakneck speed and was headed towards the false Nazarick. Many magical creatures that monitored the area were being left behind.
Ainz's initial happy tone at the prospect of a break from his duties quickly turned to one of concern as he instructed Aura to retreat to the realNazarick and inform Albedo to raise the security to the highest level, declaring, "We are under attack!". Realizing the severity of the situation, Ainz instructed Foire and the others from Nazarick to return to safety immediately on the 8th floor. As he prepared for the attack, Ainz cursed his lack of information about the world they were in. He was certain that no human or creature in this world could move at such a speed and penetrate their border in such a short amount of time.
As Ainz was preparing to depart for Nazarick, another message from Aura arrived, urging her to hurry because there was another message waiting. Ainz responded with haste, eager to get back to Nazarick and deal with the situation. "Ainz-sama!" Aura's voice was desperate. "The intruder is no longer heading for the false Nazarick. He is in E-Rantel at this moment!". Ainz was stunned. The intruder had somehow managed to evade the defenses of the Great Tomb of Nazarick and was now in the very heart of the city.
Ainz quickly ordered a retreat to Nazarick and called for an attack force to be assembled. "Call Demiurge and Sebas, we need them here now," Ainz commanded before cutting the message. He then turned his attention to the person waiting for him. "Rubedo, I am sure you know about the situation, but we need you to protect Nazarick. You are forbidden to leave without my command!" Ainz didn't have time for pleasantries with the strongest NPC in Nazarick. But just as Rubedo began to respond, the door and a large portion of the wall in Ainz's office were suddenly destroyed, revealing the intruder in his black armor and blue cape. The Eight-Edge Assassins, Ainz's loyal protectors, immediately sprang into action. Two of them moved to defend Ainz, while the other six launched a fierce attack on the intruder with their razor-sharp arms. However, the intruder proved to be a formidable foe. With incredible speed and elegance, he deftly dodged the assassins' attacks. Then, in a sudden and shocking move, the intruder raised a hand and spoke a single spell. "Life Sacrifice Lv 5." In an instant, everything around the intruder fell into darkness, as if it had never existed. The six assassins were gone without a trace, leaving Ainz and Foire alone in the ruined office, facing an unknown and dangerous adversary.
As the debris settled, the figure emerged from the dust, adorned in a black armor and a blue cape. His presence alone filled the room with an overwhelming aura of fear and majesty, leaving the maid and Ainz 's remaining Eight-Edge Assassins trembling in his wake. The being's voice boomed inside the room, muffled by the helmet he wore, but still clear enough to send chills down the spine of all those present. "Do you truly believe that with this level of preparation, defenses and subordinates, you can stop anyone?" he declared with confidence and arrogance, as if already victorious.
The words lingered in the air, as the being's piercing gaze shifted towards Ainz, who stood frozen, unable to speak. The being's footsteps echoed through the chamber, the sound of his heavy boots striking the ground with a sense of purpose. Ainz's mind raced as he tried to comprehend who this being was, and how he had penetrated the defenses of Nazarick with such ease. He knew that this was a powerful opponent, one that he had to face head-on. But there is something strange in this enemy, a familiar voice and appearance came from the adversary. As the being stood in front of him, Ainz summoned all his courage to get out of the shock and spoke with a voice that quivered slightly, "Behemoth, is that you?".
The air around the room seemed to still as the magic gate opened, revealing the small figure of Shaltear, her full plate armor in dark red glinting in the dim light. Her eyes shone with a fierce intensity as she entered, her senses fully alert to any danger that might threaten her master. Without hesitation, Shaltear took a defensive posture in front of Ainz, her body tense and ready for battle. The being standing before them seemed not to care under her fierce gaze, and Foire, who had been so bold moments before, fell to her knees in fear.
Ainz watched in awe as his faithful servant stood before him, a wall of strength and loyalty that nothing could penetrate. He knew that he was safe as long as Shaltear was by his side. The being, who had once exuded an overwhelming presence of fear and majesty, now seemed to be impressed in the face of Shaltear's fierce determination.
"I see," he said, his voice slightly subdued, "you have gained some impressive allies, Momonga."
Shaltear's mind raced as she struggled to comprehend the immense power of the being before her. She had faced countless enemies in battle, but none had ever made her feel so helpless and insignificant. As she tried to steady herself, the figure stepped forward with a speed that defied logic, closing the distance between them in the blink of an eye. Shaltear had no time to react as the being delivered a powerful punch that sent her flying across the room, crashing into the wall with a deafening thud. The force of the blow was so great that it shattered the wall, sending debris raining down on her motionless form.
As the dust settled, Shaltear struggled to her feet, her mind reeling from the shock of the attack. She looked up to see the being standing before her, his black armor glinting in the dim light. She knew that she was no match for this opponent, but she steeled herself for the coming battle. With a snarl of rage, Shaltear charged forward, unleashing a flurry of attacks that would have felled a lesser opponent. But the being merely stood there, his helmet hiding any expression that might betray his thoughts. And then, with a single punch, he shattered her defenses, leaving her exposed and vulnerable. Shaltear fell to the ground, gasping for air as the being loomed over her. She knew that this was the end, that she was no match for his overwhelming power. But even as she lay there, defeated and broken, she knew that she would never give up. For she was a guardian of Nazarick, and she would fight to the very end to protect her master and her home.
Ainz stood behind Shaltear, a sense of relief washing over him. He knew that he had underestimated the dangers that lurked outside Nazarick, but with Shaltear by his side, he felt that he could face anything as exclaimed "STOP NOW, BOTH OF YOU!". Ainz's voice echoed through the room, as he introduced the imposing figure before them. Shaltear's eyes widened in shock as she realized the significance of the being in front of her. This was no ordinary opponent, but rather, the legendary Nazarick Behemoth Odle, the father of Ulbert Alain Odle and the very founder of the Great Tomb of Nazarick itself. The weight of the knowledge that she was in the presence of the first Supreme Being of Nazarick, the very being responsible for creating everything she knew, hit her like a ton of bricks. The full gravity of the situation was not lost on her as she knelt before him with a mix of strength and clumsiness, the force of her posture cracking the floor beneath her.
Shaltear's mind was racing as she tried to process everything. She had heard stories of Nazarick Behemoth Odle, but had never thought she would actually have the chance to encounter him in person. And to think that Ainz was calling upon his aid in this battle... it was almost too much to comprehend.
Behemoth's piercing gaze bore into Shaltear as he spoke, his voice rumbling like thunder. "You have nothing to fear from me, Shaltear. I understand your devotion to your master, and it is a trait I admire. You have proven yourself a loyal servant to Nazarick," Behemoth said, his voice carrying a note of respect. Shaltear was taken aback by Behemoth's unexpected words, her eyes widening in surprise. She had expected to be punished for her impulsive actions, but instead, she was met with words of understanding and even praise.
Behemoth then turned his attention to Ainz, his demeanor shifting to one of business. "But out of the many purpose of my visit. Momonga, I have come with urgent news. There is a threat looming on the horizon, and I fear it may spell the end of Nazarick."
As the new dimensional gate opened, a host of powerful NPCs emerged, led by the loyal and fearsome Albedo, Demiurge, Sebas, and Cocytus. Their imposing presence filled the room, casting an almost palpable aura of danger and authority. "Is everything alright, Ainz-sama?" Albedo asked, her voice heavy with concern as she scanned the room for any signs of danger. But before Ainz could even reply, her eyes fell upon the enigmatic figure of Behemoth. In an instant, her demeanor shifted from one of worry to one of deep respect and deference. Falling to one knee, she uttered, "Forgive me, Nazarick Behemoth Odle-sama, for intruding upon your presence. We are but humble servants of the Supreme Beings, and our only desire is to serve you with all our being."
As Albedo knelt before the intruder, her fellow Floor Guardians Cocytus and Sebas became increasingly suspicious of her actions. The air grew tense with the weight of their unspoken accusations, and the room seemed to darken as the three NPCs faced off against each other. Sebas broke the silence, his voice low and dangerous. "Albedo, explain yourself. Why are you kneeling before this...this stranger?" Cocytus nodded in agreement, his icy gaze fixed on Albedo. "Yes, you owe us an explanation. Your actions seem like treason against Nazarick and our great Supreme One." Albedo rose to her feet, her face twisted in frustration. "You don't understand. This person is Nazarick Behemoth Odle, the first Supreme Being who created our entire world. He is the father of Ulbert Alain Odle, the man who help design the Great Tomb of Nazarick." Cocytus and Sebas exchanged incredulous looks, clearly struggling to believe what they were hearing. "The first Supreme Being? That is impossible," Sebas protested. But as they gazed upon the towering figure of Behemoth, a sudden realization dawned on the Guardians. The gravity of his presence and the aura of power he exuded were unmistakable, and they knew without a doubt that Albedo spoke the truth.
As the tension rose between Albedo, Cocytus, and Sebas, Demiurge's excitement could not be contained. He knew of the great Nazarick Behemoth Odle, and the idea of serving another Supreme Being filled him with joy. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Demiurge couldn't help but feel like a child waiting for his beloved grandfather to return. He knelt quietly behind the others, trying his best to maintain a solemn posture, but the excitement was almost too much to bear.
"A moment, Cocytus!" Ainz commanded, his voice echoing throughout the room. "There is no need for violence here, my loyal friend. Let me explain the situation." Cocytus hesitated for a moment, his grip on the God Slaying Emperor Blade loosening. He looked to Ainz, waiting for an explanation. "The intruder before us is Nazarick Behemoth Odle, founder of the Great Tomb of Nazarick. He is a supreme being, like me, and has returned to us after a long absence," Ainz explained. "There has been no treachery, my loyal guardians. You may stand down." Cocytus slowly lowered his sword, relief washing over his face. Sebas and Demiurge also stood down, their expressions changing from anger to curiosity.
"But why was he not recognized by the system, Ainz-sama?" Albedo asked, still kneeling before Nazarick Behemoth Odle. "That is a question we must investigate. But for now, let us welcome our esteemed guest," Ainz replied, walking over to the father of Ulbert Alain Odle. As Ainz explained the situation to his subordinates, Cocytus felt a wave of embarrassment wash over him. He couldn't believe he had jumped to conclusions so quickly and was ready to attack his own ally. Feeling remorseful, he dropped his sword and offered his head in atonement for his hasty actions. But before he could make a move, Behemoth spoke up. "Cocytus, your loyalty to Ainz Ooal Gown is admirable. It takes great courage to stand against your own friends in the face of adversity, and I commend you for that. However, there is no need for such drastic measures. Momonga-san has already forgiven you." Cocytus felt relief wash over him at Behemoth's words. He knew that he had a lot to learn about being a true servant of Nazarick, and he was grateful to have Behemoth's guidance in this matter. Ainz, too, was touched by Cocytus's loyalty and determination to protect him. "Cocytus, I appreciate your dedication to me and to Nazarick. Your willingness to lay down your life in my defense is a testament to your loyalty and bravery. You are a true warrior of Nazarick." With Ainz's words, Cocytus felt a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to his master. He knew that he would do anything to protect him and the Great Tomb of Nazarick, even if it meant standing against his own allies.
With a commanding voice, Ainz issued the order to all the NPCs present to return to their designated positions within the labyrinthine halls of Nazarick. He emphasized the urgency of their assembly in the throne room in one hour's time for an important meeting. Every denizen of Nazarick was required to be present, save for those engaged in the primal functions that kept the Great Tomb of Nazarick running smoothly. The atmosphere in the room was tense as Ainz's authoritative command weighed heavily upon everyone present. The air was thick with anticipation and curiosity for what could be so significant that it required the gathering of every NPC in Nazarick. As the awe-inspiring order settled upon the room, Ainz and Behemoth disappeared from sight, whisked away by a teleportation gate. The remaining NPCs, still kneeling in deference to their supreme overlord, were left to wonder and speculate about the nature of the meeting and its implications for the future of Nazarick.
Albedo stood with a regal posture, her gaze piercing into the distance as she spoke with an air of mystique. "My sisters, Demiurge, and I belong to the earliest batch of creations within Nazarick," she said, her voice carrying a tinge of reverence. "We have encountered Behemoth-sama in the past, but it was a fleeting encounter that left us with more questions than answers." Her words hung in the air, shrouded in secrecy and hinting at a deeper knowledge beyond the comprehension of those around her.
As Shaltear listened intently to Albedo's explanation, she couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The conversation was cryptic and shrouded in mystery, leaving Shaltear with more questions than answers. Albedo's face remained stoic, her gaze piercing as she spoke, while Demiurge's grin only widened with each passing moment. Shaltear knew better than to question her fellow guardians further. Instead, she simply nodded in acknowledgment before making her way to the teleportation room, curious to see who or what Behemoth was and what the special meeting could possibly entail. As she stepped through the portal, she couldn't shake off the feeling that something significant was about to happen, and she braced herself for whatever was to come.
End of Chapter 1.
Extra.
Behemoth after leaving the cave:
Thinking back on my arrival, I founded myself transported to a strange world, without any idea of where I was. I was alone, without anyone to ask for help or guidance. To make matters worse, in the body of a monster, created by me. With no other options, I decided to isolate myself in the nearest mountain, away from civilization. A village lay aside the hills, but I was afraid of this killing intent flowing out of me, that the people would deem me a monster and shun me. So, I preferred to remain in the shadows. The cave in which I lived was dark and deep, but it never bothered me. It seemed like all of my old powers had traveled with me to this new world. I still had all of my equipment and abilities, and I hoped that I was not the only one who had been sent to this place. As I contemplated my situation, I realized that I had no idea how to return to my world, or even if it was possible. So, I decided to focus on adapting to this new life, honing my skills, and perhaps even discovering the reason for my presence in this world. For now, I would have to rely on my own wits and strength to survive.