Route 6

-XXX-

In front of an old wooden door of a dimly lit hallway, a silhouette slowly paced back and forth. Despite the sluggish movements, the shadows cast by the jet-black academic gown elegantly fluttered with each move and waved with each turn. The conspicuous figure is none other than Ainz himself.

[-.o] Hmmm…

Why did Luci*fer give his NPC such a strange name?

Melody Asahina of the Batela*1 family…

Melody Asahina Batela… Did Luci*fer ever take interest in singing or sailing?

Why is the middle name Japanese, rather than English?

Ainz continued his pacing motions many times over… to not only ponder on such questions, but to reassure himself the absence of others. After Ainz finally confirmed that he was truly the only one there, he cautiously came to a stop in front of the door. The hallway was littered with similar looking doors, but he wanted this one, in particular, room 420.

He arranged a meeting with Melody by sending a message with the newly developed dropbox system. Although the message system was quite slow and took a couple days to reach, the messages can be left anonymous while still reaching intended destination. Ainz did not want anyone to know or find out about this meeting.

Badump, badump, badump…

Bzzz, bzzz, bzzz…

The beating of his imaginary heart synchronised with the overhead light.

Originally, this hallway's creepy atmosphere was intended to entertain guests of Nazarick, but such thoughts would be the last to cross Ainz's riddled mind.

Ainz took in a deep breath.

A long exhale followed.

A skeletal hand slowly revealed itself from the sleeves as Ainz reached out to knock the door… but he suddenly decided against it and retracted his hand.

[o.o!] I have just realised something.

Is this not a so called "secret liaison"… with a potential lover… behind everyone's back?

No, no, no.

It's not like I'm committing infidelity or anything. I'm just here to meet the person and decline the invitation… face-to-face… because it would be disrespectful if I just sent a message…

is what the cheating bastard usually says in dramas.

What is my excuse then?

"I am the ruler of Nazarick. I have the responsibility to understand those who stand beneath me."

Umu.

My reason is legitimate!

So, why am I feeling guilty over this?

Ainz braced himself and…

Please select what Ainz does and continue to route:

1. knocked on the door. (Route 7)

2. starts walking away… (Route 8)

-XXX-


*1 - Misinterpretation by Ainz: Batela - Nautical clothing brand