Hello, everyone. Sorry for taking such a long time to update, but I had many things to do. Not only work, but like many of you, I suffered a Heatstroke around two weeks ago. So, I've been taking it slow.
My next schedule is as follows!
-Dragon Age: The Demonic Age (One Chapter)
-My OC history (Two Chapters)
-The White Wolf of Winterfell (One Chapter)
-Overlord: The Demon Who Lived? (One Chapter)
See you all soon. And please follow me on Tumblr, where I'll post more details of the schedules of the fanfictions over there! As well, you can ask me anything!
-Also, if you wish to follow me on Tumblr! You will see the next updates and artwork, or ask me anything about my works or what you'd like to see in the future, and get more news! As well as how to support me directly!
( paulythide . tumblr . com )
Chapter 60
Galadriel stared at her large pile of papers before her as she worked tirelessly on her desk. It was a typical morning for her, all things considered. Still, as she read over the many reports from her agents. Galadriel read one that piqued her interest. A bit of information has genuinely captivated her so far.
"Karsanas City-State Alliance," Galadriel hummed deeply as she read the report. "Very interesting," Galadriel murmured, reading the details of the information with a sudden peak of interest.
"My lady?" Demiurge, who has taken on the role of Galadriel's helper while Albedo was out on a mission, spoke. "If I may ask, what is so interesting?"
"These cities and their links to the Thirteen Heroes," Galadriel replied. "They are far away from us at the moment. So we don't have much information about them. Yet, from this report, it seemed that they held my name in high regard for some odd reason."
"Oh? Truly? I must express my surprise at that, my lady," Demiurge said, his mind already thinking about how he could use that information. "But maybe it is to be expected. After all, your name has been a constant echoed across this world. It shouldn't come as a surprise that some revere you. As they should."
Galadriel simply chuckled at the statement. "I doubt it is just that. From what I know, the swords of the so-called Black Knight. Well, they are my swords. Things I built while trying to experiment with Warrior Takemikazuchi."
Demiurge allowed himself to chuckle at his lady's statement. After all, it shouldn't come as a surprise that she had the foresight to give up such items if she had not used them to increase her name. His lady's plans were always ahead of him. Nevertheless, he, too, was intrigued by the Karsanas City-State Alliance. Could they prove useful to them in the future? Would they be loyal to his lady? Or would they need to take care of them sooner rather than later? Demiurge would have to look into the matter soon.
Still, Galadriel had other thoughts running through her mind.
It could be that kid I met the day before Yggdrasil ended. Yet, he was not the only one who came to this world, after all, from what I am reading. The Thirteen Heroes leader who died on the journey of their adventure could be a Player, too.
Galadriel pondered about that bit of information. She believed that the Black Knight was that kid. But she was also starting to think that their leader was also a Player. She had no concrete evidence, but she could sense it.
Also, the so-called hero of the Karsana City-State Alliance, the Dark Knight, was hailed as their national hero and considered to be strong.
But why call himself the Dark Knight...? Could he be a fan of the Black Knight from the Thirteen Heroes? He could be.
"They should be glad to have your swords. If you wish, I could form a group in order to get them back," said Demiurge, to which Galadriel shook her head.
"No need. Those swords were gifts, after all. I don't need them. Besides, I wish to know more about this Dark Knight and the Karsanas City-State Alliance. With luck, my other swords could be there. I wish to see who is wielding them."
"Understood, my lady."
Galadriel smiled before another report piqued her interest.
"Also, we've solved the dwarves' problems?" Galadriel asked as Demiurge smiled brightly.
"Of course, Cocytus has managed to get the Dwarves on our side. I am quite surprised by the results."
Galadriel smiled, knowing that Cocytus' experience dealing with different races and acting as an envoy had become quite an excellent surprise. After Cocytus took charge of the tribes. The Lizardmen were now loyal to her and worshipped her like a goddess. Cocytus did a fantastic job of ensuring the Lizardmen's transition from a group of separated villages into a large community went as smoothly as possible.
It was amazing, truly. At first, all Galadriel knew about the Dwarven Kingdom was what Pluton Ainzach told her during one of her meetings with the Guildmaster. Then, after hearing that one of the Lizardmen had a good relationship with the Dwarves. Galadriel decided to send Cocytus there to see if they could learn more about them and gain some allies.
Galadriel's empire required partners, after all.
So, when Cocytus brought forth the information, he discovered something about their Runecraft. Galadriel jumped right in to get them on her side. Runecraft may be a fading trait in the Dwarven culture, but with the right push and support. It could definitely become the curve her empire needed to gain more power in the future. It was worth the support. It was a long-term investment in Galadriel's eyes.
Also, the Quagoa proved to be more valuable than she thought.
"Cocytus has surpassed our expectations, no doubt. I am delighted with all he has achieved so far," Galadriel stated with genuine pride. "I should reward his hard work. I wonder, what should I give him?"
"I think he should be glad just to be praised," Demiurge added as Galadriel sighed deeply.
"Perhaps, but I want to show him my appreciation."
"I am sure Cocytus will treasure anything coming from you, my lady."
Galadriel chuckled. "I sure hope so."
Soon enough, Galadriel began to hear the apparent sound of [Message] coming.
Oh, it should be Shalltear and Aura.
"{Yes, it's me?}"
"{My lady, it's me, Aura!}"
"{Aura, how are things going with the Frost Dragons? Are they a threat?}"
"{Ah, well, about that... uhm, one of the dragons came forward to face Shalltear and me. And we tried to test his strenght. After all, it was a dragon!}"
Galadriel hummed deeply, happy to hear that both Shalltear and Aura were being careful in their solo missions. However, she could listen to Aura's voice, and the young, dark elf seemed disappointed and highly amused about something.
"{So, what happened?}" Galadriel asked before hearing a nervous chuckle from Aura.
"{He peed himself before asking for mercy... I thought he was cute because he was fat and had glasses. So, I took him as my pet. Now, he wants us to spare his mother. But he has three mothers? In any case, we kill the Frost Dragon, the leader, and his son. We discover an immense treasure, too! Big treasure! We are preparing to send it to Nazarick's treasury.}"
Galadriel nodded happily at their success. Although, she was pretty confused about the fat dragon that peed himself. It sounded like a funny thing to see.
"{Alright, keeping those dragons under our leash will be good in the future. I shall let them be under your care, Aura.}"
"{Of course, my lady!}" Aura exclaimed happily.
"{Now, send the treasure back to Nazarick. Pandora's Actor has been on edge since he's been away from the treasury for a long time. Organising this new treasure should give him something to work with. Also, if the Dwarves wish, I would like them to send an emissary so I can speak with them about our long-term partnerships.}"
"{Understood, my lady.}"
"{Be careful out there, Aura, don't let your guard down.}"
"{Of course!}"
As Galadriel sat back in her chair, she couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. It had undeniably been a productive day, yet she couldn't shake the strange feeling that had settled in her bones. Tiresome wasn't quite the right word, but it certainly conveyed the weariness that seemed to have taken hold of her at that moment.
I should rest. Galadriel felt it, slowly caressing her belly. It's definitely a side effect of being pregnant. I think.
"Demiurge," Galadriel said, slowly standing up. "I must rest. I am feeling quite tired."
Demiurge's expression paled as if Galadriel had just told him she was dying, which prompted the demon empress to raise her hand quickly.
"I am just going to take a break, that's all, Demiurge."
That calmed the demon down. Demiurge coughed awkwardly. "Of course, my lady. Don't worry. I shall make sure to notify you if any urgent matter comes up."
"Thank you, Demiurge."
After leaving the office, Galadriel retreated to her room and shut the door. She swiftly removed her clothes and sat on the edge of the bed, feeling the comforting softness beneath her. A wave of relief washed over her.
"Ah~!" Galadriel sighed happily as she lay on her bed. "Truly, I am getting more tired each day. Adding the fact that I am eating way more and that some of the food I used to like no longer tastes the same makes me wonder just how much I am changing. But could it be that it is all in my head?"
Galadriel recently recalled an article discussing the significant impact that pregnancy hormones could have on a woman's behaviour, ranging from food cravings to mood swings. Why does she remember something like that? Maybe because she was pregnant and because it was one of the few times the only girls of Ainz Ooal Gown gathered to talk about "girl things" during their time together. Yamaiko, Ankoro Mocchi Mocchi, Bukubukuchagama, and she were talking about kids. Why? That's something she doesn't remember clearly.
Yet, Galadriel does recall how Yamaiko spoke about her little sister's pregnancy. The woman was utterly furious at the fact that her little sister's boyfriend bailed out the moment he heard of her pregnancy. Still, both sisters stood by each other's sides, and Yamaiko helped her during those troubled times.
Yamaiko told her how suddenly, out of nowhere, her little sister's weight increased so much in just a few months that it was a bit scary. But then, when she gave birth, Yamaiko's little sister lost all the weight immediately.
It was like a balloon! It was pretty scary to see! Those were Yamaiko's words, she recalled from that day. Then, my little sister was utterly depressed for weeks. It was so hard to see her like that. I did my best but felt that nothing I did could help her feel better.
Galadriel wondered if she would grow in size, just like Yamaiko's sister. Or if she would face the horrible post-partum depression she heard from her.
"I hope not," Galadriel muttered, slowly caressing her belly. "Also, I haven't had any noticeable mood swings. Or at least, I think."
Galadriel had yet to experience any noticeable changes in her mood that she could directly attribute to her pregnancy. In fact, Galadriel was feeling so much better. So happy and filled with joy. Not so nervous as before, nor afraid of becoming a mother. She was ready to face the world by herself if need be.
"Still, I must be wary. Things could change at any minute."
Galadriel sighed happily, resting her head on her pillow, thinking nothing wrong would happen to her—nothing out of the ordinary.
Albedo couldn't help but force her hiss down, staring at the multitude of worthless humans parading around as if they were bigger than they were. A horrible sensation of disgust flowed through her while she endured conversations with them.
Albedo knew it was part of the plan to seek a worthy fly among many maggots. One that could prove helpful for them. Oddly enough, Albedo found she didn't have to waste so much time seeing that vermin since that disgusting little maggot was already in front of her.
"So, my dear lady Albedo, what do you think of the night?" Philip attempted to smile gallantly, though it was unclear whether he succeeded.
"Yes, yes, of course," Albedo replied, trying to keep that mask on her face. "Surprising to find so many nobles attending."
Philip had an extensive, smug look on his face. He glanced around and noticed he was the centre of everyone's talk, just like he planned it to be. Yet, it wasn't enough in his mind. Philip's plans required more than just a good evening with sweet Albedo. Suppose he wished to achieve his dreams. Philip must first make sure to gain Albedo's favour, which he believed to be easy.
After all, I am Philip Dayton L'Eyre Monstserrat. Women line up before me. And while Albedo seems to hold some power, she is still a woman. Women of all kinds fall for me. And, indeed, she'll see that I am quite the player in this game. She'd need my assistance to bring the kingdom to heel!
Philip's mind began to work quickly, thinking in a hundred scenarios simultaneously, where he could use Albedo's influence for his own. One by one, his thoughts aligned with one another, creating the path of victory in his eyes.
Like a paraplegic blind man trying to win a race by using the fastest car he doesn't have.
Indeed, Philip was a genius.
Philip then dared to put his hand around Albedo's waist, and the sudden sound of something crushing made Philip look around.
What was that? Philip decided to ignore such a thing as he focused on those beautiful eyes of Albedo, who looked at him with nothing but love. Or so he thought.
"My dear lady, I want you to know what I, Philip Dayton L'Erye Monstserrat, could help you with. After all, we must be frank here. The Ancient One's empire would take time to be built."
The vein of Albedo was practically visible on her exquisite forehead. The succubus came very close to killing the human, and everyone would have seen her do it. Albedo would have been pleased by their attention. But she suppressed her anger as much as she could and put on a fake grin.
"Oh, is that what you believe? In that case, what would you propose?"
Philip smiled triumphantly, almost dancing in the dance room right there and there.
"The kingdom is falling. Everyone can see it, even the king. It now needs a strong leader, someone with desire. Also, an Ancient Being doesn't need to lower herself to mere mortals, right?"
Albedo was now carefully listening to him. Not because he had such a fantastic idea that she was interested in hearing. No. But because if he dared to speak ill of her Supreme Begin, of her lady, of the woman she loved more than life itself, and more importantly, of the woman who was carrying her child, she would kill him without pause, without even daring to think.
"What does that mean?" Albedo asked hissingly.
"My dear lady Albedo, are you married?" Philip asked, and Albedo frowned at the out-of-the-blue question.
Technically speaking, Albedo wasn't married. Yet. And while Galadriel has referred to her as a wife before, during their visit to the Baharuth Empire. There hasn't been any official wedding.
Truth be told, Albedo wanted to propose to Galadriel—a rather orthodox thought. But for Albedo, it simply makes sense. Albedo was, after all, the father of the child growing inside Galadriel, so technically speaking, it should be her proposing to Galadriel.
"I am, sadly, not married yet," Albedo replied, forcing gagging sounds inside her throat. She hated it more than anything.
"This issue needs to be fixed no matter what," Philip added, smirkingly, but Albedo now stared at him, confused. "A beautiful woman like yourself can't stay single for long."
That's the only thing I'd agree on. But I can't give my lady just any ring! No! Absolutely not! It has to be the most precious and elegant ring ever!
Albedo thought, wondering about the best way to propose to her lady. She utterly ignored Philip's facial expression as he put his arm around her waist again, bringing Albedo's mind back to reality.
"I would like to tell you all of my plans if you wish," Philip stated arrogantly, but Albedo simply couldn't care about him at all.
Albedo was there for something else, too.
"Perhaps another time," Albedo said as her eyes gazed upon a woman with gold hair, who quickly approached both.
"Oh, Hilma?" Philip mumbled, watching the woman who made the night possible. "What is it?"
"I think Lady Albedo needs to rest for a bit," Hilma said, trying to look as calm as possible in front of the woman who seemed ready to destroy the entire place.
"I see. Then I should guide Lady Albedo to the resting area."
"That would be a bad idea, Lord Philip," Hilma quickly intervened, noticing the glare of Albedo on both of them. "It could be seen as an insult for an unwed lady to be guided away from the party by the host."
"Ah! I see. That makes sense! I apologise!" Philip exclaimed before nodding to himself. It was clear to Albedo and Hilma that he was thinking of something. But what was it? Neither wanted to know.
"Then, my lady," Philip said before kissing Albedo's knuckles. "Go and rest, my lady."
Albedo's twisted internally. A fate worse than being near Kyouhukou.
"Of course," Albedo replied before walking away with Hilma behind.
The poor woman had been through hell multiple times and was terrified of being near Albedo for various reasons. One of them was that Hilma knew that Albedo was the right hand of the Ancient One and her lover.
So, if Hilma weren't up to the strict expectations of her bosses, she would then suffer a fate worse than death.
Hilma still recalled what happened during her baptism. Her womb was taken out and cleaned, all while she was awake. Hilma would like to say that was the worst thing that happened that day. But that wasn't even close.
"Tch! Disgusting, little verming, how dare! How he dared to touch me?!" Albedo hissed furiously while scrubbing all the places where Philip dared to put her filthy hand. All in vain, Albedo would have to wash her body multiple times before returning to her beloved lady.
"Only one person is allowed to touch my lustful body! I'll kill him...! No! I will make sure he begs for mercy!"
Albedo hissed while Hilma's body recoiled in fear from the sheer intensity of Albedo's anger.
"W-we could find someone else if my lady wishes!" Hilma stammered.
Albedo scoffed but decided to keep playing the fool. The worst he could do was prove them right and be the perfect idiot for their plan.
"No, the plan is the same. Have you gathered the rest here?"
"Yes, lady Albedo!"
"Good, the plan for the next move must start now," Albedo sighed deeply, trying to keep herself under control.
It was all part of her lady's plan, all needed for the future of her lady's empire and, more importantly, for her child's future. Albedo would do whatever was necessary for both of them. No matter how many would need to die for it.
While still asleep, Galadriel started mumbling. There was an obvious problem. Galadriel felt a sudden weight she couldn't place on her body or mind. She could see something in the distance. A small figure was waiting for her there. Galadriel wanted to approach it, but no matter how much she walked towards that tiny being. Galadriel couldn't quite reach it.
What was it? Galadriel simply couldn't see it clearly. But she knew it was necessary.
Soon enough, Galadriel woke up.
"What was that?" She couldn't help but ask out loud, trying to think of any explanation for such a strange event. It wasn't the first time. And she believed it wouldn't be the last.
"It's normal for pregnant women to have dreams like that?" Galadriel grumbled on her bed. "I don't think Yamaiko's sister had them... or maybe she did, and I just don't remember."
Suddenly, the bed didn't feel as big or comfortable as before. Galadriel perhaps slept for a few hours, but her body told her it was no longer necessary. And with that in mind, Galadriel decided to return to work or eat something.
However, as Galadriel stood up from the bed, she noticed something odd. She felt heavy, or not heavy in the sense of the word. It was more like she was carrying something heavy—something big—on her body. Galadriel was confused, and it took a few moments for her to realise what was happening. She then glanced down and gasped loudly.
"I..."
Galadriel quickly stood up in a cautious manner and looked herself in the mirror.
"I can't believe it," she whispered before realising something was happening. "Pestonya!" Galadriel yelled, and Pestonya entered the room like her life depended on it. The Head of the Maids, just like many maids, were always outside of Galadriel's room, like unmoving statues. So, when they heard their lady yelling, they all rushed immediately to her.
"My lady!" Pestonya entered the room, and as soon as she watched her lady. The head of the maid's mouth opened in shock.
"It seems that my pregnancy is going to be faster than we thought," Galadriel mumbled as she noticed that her belly was no longer flat. Galadriel looked as if she had entered the second trimester of pregnancy. She appeared to be about six months into her pregnancy. And that caught Galadriel entirely off guard.
How is this possible? It's not even a month; no, it is even less! Galadriel began to panic slightly, overwhelmed by the sudden appearance.
Pestonya quickly approached her lady. "My lady, please do not panic. It could put stress on the baby."
Galadriel sighed deeply. "You're right, of course. Now, please, I would like for Albedo to come here. This is urgent."
Pestonya nodded as Galadriel looked at her belly, shocked by it.
This is just getting weirder.
Now, I began to write my own history. After I suffered the heatstroke, it put my life in perspective.
I love writing fan fictions. It's a fun hobby. Yet, I also want to write my own history.
I don't intend to stop writing the histories you all like, but I just want to let you all know what I've been doing.
Please check my history out, and tell me what you think! It will genuinely make me happy!
( www . royalroad fiction / 74181 / the-demon-empress )
Also, if you like Overlord: The Demon Empress. Then, you'll like this history!