Author's Note: Sorry for being away so long everyone. A lot's been happening on my end lately. On the IRL side, been dealing with work and personal drama. On the FFN side, you likely know I've had a problem with what I and many others assume to be someone using multiple accounts to harass and disparage me. Not only has the review page been spam-bombed on multiple occasions, with the site admins seemingly not doing anything about it, but I've also been harassed via Private Messages. It's why I don't accept the site's PMs anymore.

I'll admit that I considered quitting altogether, but I don't want to ruin everything for my readers that have been patiently waiting for this story to run to its conclusion, so I will stay the course. All that I ask is that you continue to report the spam-bombing whenever you see it. Maybe the site admins will actually do something about it. But whatever happens, this story WILL continue to its conclusion, which is certainly close. As a wise man once said, "We're in the endgame now".

And with that, on to our regularly scheduled programming...

A week had passed since the ambassadors from the Sorcerer Kingdom had gone to the Roble Holy Kingdom, and since then embassies were established, and undead workers had been sent over to the Holy Kingdom, with only one incident of a local throwing a rock at one of them that was quickly smoothed over without incidents and supplies also being sent over.

Outside that incident, the reception of those from the Sorcerer Kingdom was mostly positive. They weren't exactly greeted with wild cheers, given their nation's former isolationist nature and sudden presence of undead, but thanks to the work done by the ruling duo that helped them to prepare for it, the services being provided certainly got the population's growing approval slowly but steadily.

This was the summary of a report Demiurge presented to Ainz within the Sorcerer King's throne room in E-Rantel as the Overlord sat upon his throne. Demiurge stood a few feet away, having finished speaking and now waiting for his superior's reaction.

"Umu. Very good. This is turning out to be an endeavor that was worth the initial concerns. The approval of the people, so easily won, does give us some much-needed and appreciated face." Ainz regally remarked whilst rubbing his bony chin.

"Indeed. According to Claude, our reputation is steadily growing, and I'm certain that now that their borders are open to more outsiders word will spread to other nations. Of course, I'm sure whatever spies exist within the Roble Holy Kingdom are already doing that." Demiurge analytically said.

"Claude is still leading the efforts correct?"

"Yes. Preparations are still underway, but we should be able to arrange for a more permanent residence for him as our head representative."

"Umu. He has been doing good work. Let's make sure that remains the case." Ainz said with a thoughtful tone.

This made another topic come to Ainz's mind, as he pondered the important position being given to Claude. That being perhaps they should implement more public and well-known titles for those taking on specific positions. This was especially true for the NPCs who were already doing so much that was beyond their original "job description".

Still, while they were so against rewards in their way, perhaps titles would be an easier thing for the NPCs to accept. For example, he looked at Demiurge who did so much information related work and supply gathering, perhaps a title like "Master of Information", or "Shadow Hand", or perhaps "Head of Intelligence" would be fitting.

"Ainz-sama?" Demiurge asked, bringing the Overlord back from his thoughts.

"Yes?" He asked, making sure to remain looking composed.

"That was all for my report."

"Oh? Very good. If that is all you can leave, Demiurge. You have done good work as always." Ainz calmly said.

"Your praise humbles me, Ainz-sama. But, I would like to ask, what was the nature of Shalltear's business here."

For a moment there was a brief pause, Ainz shifting slightly on his seat, as he tapped the side of his head.

"She came to ask about the current situation with Aizen. Her… disposition towards Rylen Tsezguerra for what he did to her hasn't changed. While she has been doing well in keeping her composure, she certainly does not like the man." Ainz explained with a sigh.

"I see, Ainz-sama. From what I can see, it does seem like she is not going to let go of that grudge anytime soon. If I may, I also fear, that Albedo and perhaps a few others to a lesser extent won't exactly take a liking to Aizen or the Espada anytime soon after the trouble they have caused you." Demiurge dispassionately pointed out.

"..."

Ainz couldn't deny that from what he saw of Shalltear's and Albedo's reactions to Aizen. They did not like him and probably would want him stomped down like they could do with so many other "problems". Even if they failed to truly grasp the danger of a being like Aizen truly represented.

He also could imagine that for Shalltear, the Rylen issue is intensified by the fact that as the first Guardian to suffer a massive failure, she not only served as an unflattering example for others, but had to actively work towards moving past that. In the case of Albedo, Ainz felt his non-existent heart tighten, as he imagined that his changing of her settings had prompted some of this.

"You wanted to discuss this topic, Demiurge?" He pointedly asked.

"If possible."

"I see. Hmm... From what I can tell, your disposition towards Aizen is different. I sense that your thoughts toward him are certainly clearer and less hostile." Ainz remarked, putting what he had learned about dealing with people and subordinates to use from his salaryman and YGGDRASIL guildmaster days.

"Perhaps. I suffered defeat at his hands, allowing me to gain a better grasp of him as an individual, as well as his strength. As such, I look at the situation in a different manner." The demon explained in a professional tone.

"Very good. I'm pleased to hear that, Demiurge. When one is before a problem, it is imperative that they're able to look at it from different angles. Your experiences with him has allowed you to look upon him differently from what you probably would have done if that fight had not happened." Ainz coolly pointed out, his tone failing to convey the pride he felt for this growth in the Floor Guardian.

"It is as you say, Ainz-sama. However, that is not the case for Albedo and Shalltear, for which I feel uncertain if their heart is in this deal that has been established with Aizen."

A silence filled the room, the Overlord's keen eyes lighting up into small red orbs that from where Demiurge stood seemed to pierce into him more sharply than any blow he had taken. Like a giant looking back at a human, Demiurge nervously shifted in his suit, straightened his glasses and waited.

"Explain." Ainz tersely said.

"Uhm, I…"

The reply was quick, a single word and for a moment Demiurge was baffled, as in his mind as he had gone through this scenario, he had imagined his superior to say more, so this reaction was confusing.

"I want to know why you think this, Demiurge."

"Ah, my apologies. If find that both have complex and dedicated personalities, and as such, also very volatile. I doubt any would try anything, but the tension may cause problems in the long run. That is, if things are to last." Demiurge explained in a business-like manner.

"What if I don't want things to last? Would that mean violence?" Ainz asked.

Again, Demiurge saw a need to straighten his glasses. He certainly had not left out the chance of things falling apart and leading to violence, it would simply be foolish to not consider it, and he was certain the Supreme Being would consider it to. He was just a bit surprised to see it brought up so promptly.

"Depending on how things go, I would foresee many of the outcomes involving violence. Aizen's display of going to Nazarick, was clearly one of strength and I would imagine that if talks failed, there would be only one option left, as I don't imagine him simply bending the knee that easily. Or to anyone for that matter." Demiurge succinctly replied.

"How do you imagine that fight would go?"

"Well, Ainz-sama, I'm sure that you..." The Floor Guardian went to say, when the Overlord lifted a hand.

"Just answer the question. I'll give you my thoughts after."

"As you wish. I fear we know too little about the Espada to properly ascertain how it would go. Aizen aside, the Espada could perhaps be easily dealt with, but even Shalltear had issues with Rylen. However, from what she said if she was fully equipped he wouldn't have been an issue. So there are some favorable factors. And..." Demiure said, pausing as he seemed to collect his thoughts.

"...from our reports on several occasions there have been individuals employed by the Espada that weren't exactly seen after, more often than not appearing when the Espada needs the numbers. I took the liberty of going back to the information we collected over time, and it is now clear that more than likely Aizen worked towards becoming Roble's King. There is also information pointing towards the Espada having a invested interest in the Dragon Kingdom where they did a lot of work to end its war. Princess Renner who is currently working for us, has known him for a longer period of time than she did us, so there's a chance that given her disposition, she may have had some dealings with Aizen. Clearly, he was somehow able to ascend normal individuals to even greater heights of power, as our records of Rylen and Leinas Rockbruise suggest. It's obvious that there is much that he's hidden well." He analytically added, as Ainz gave a congratulatory clap and words of praise.

"Agreed! I completely agree."

Ainz's goal with this conversation, taking advantage of Demiurge's desire to discuss it, brought up something that weighed on the Overlord's mind ever since Aizen appeared in Nazarick. The final remarks about Aizen's possible connections wasn't something he had considered, so he needed to figure out how to word this to Demiurge.

However, the fact that they knew little about Aizen and the Espada, their full numbers being unaccounted for, not to mention their capabilities, made for a scenario of all out battle that for someone like Ainz, one who valued information above all, something to avoid at all costs.

The power of Aizen alone was greater than he had imagined, so what did that mean for any troops he kept hidden and trusted aids in the Espada? If they have been hiding their true strength all this time, then even if the Espada along were on par with Nazarick's Floor Guardians, then it would be very bad.

Of course Nazarick was, in theory, an invincible fortress. In the game at least, but this was no longer a game, and this Aizen didn't need to necessarily invade Nazarick to do a lot of damage. A war of attrition for example, where the Floor Guardians and NPCs are picked off when on the outside was always possible, and the resulting costs of reviving them, as well as Nazarick's regular maintenance costs, could slowly bleed them dry.

Recouping those losses in YGGDRASIL gold was not as easy in this world when compared to the game. That was an undeniable fact. While they have established a means of gaining more YGGDRASIL gold through farming and mining, which is then deposited in the [Exchange Box], what if those supply lines were to suddenly stop?

A blockade of Nazarick was certainly possible, if those conducting it were powerful enough, and Aizen alone seemed to fit the bill. What then of whatever else he has hidden from them? If Aizen had established ties in the Dragon Kingdom, what then of other countries that surrounded them?

Ainz at times found it difficult to speak with the NPCs about doubts and concerns such as these, given how they expected him to know everything and have it all planned. So he tried this approach as a way to bounce ideas off of Demiurge. Even if as he looked at the Floor Guardian, he had to admit that perhaps he should have worded himself better.

"You can also be at ease. I simply wanted to hear your thoughts on the matter, since there are times where one needs to assess a situation and make judgements on their own. I admit that this point about Aizen's pull in the Dragon Kingdom and Renner is something I hadn't pondered too much at length, as my duties at times keep me away from the finer details of reports. Still, I agree that we know too little about the Espada. Especially compared to what they seem to know about us. So a scenario involving violence is something I would prefer to avoid, since the prospect of total victory, or perhaps even a stalemate, is not guaranteed. And I don't like to make decisions with so little information and so little guaranteed. If the situation with Shalltear has taught us anything, it's that even in this world, information is key." Ainz firmly explained.

"Of course. It is as you say. And again I am humbled that you would think so highly of me, Ainz-sama. I am sure that you had already considered all of this before I even conceived of it."

"Umu... Be that as it may. On this, your judgment of the situation was on point. Let's go over each topic individually. About the Dragon Kingdom, for the time being it is outside the immediate scope of our plans, so let's consider it a non-factor. Princess Renner for all we know is giving us good information and there is no report on her saying anything to Aizen. He does possess strange powers so it is possible to do so and not raise any suspicions, but let's leave things as they are until we have more solid evidence. Like you mentioned, she clearly is duplicitous, so for all we know she is weighting both options and is for now going with the one she knows best, Aizen." Ainz pointed out.

"Yes, I am of a similar thought." Demiurge said, much to Ainz's internal relief at knowing what he was saying made sense.

"Good. So please keep it in mind that, for the time being, the Dragon Kingdom is outside our scope and Renner will be allowed to be as usual. Regarding Shalltear and Albedo, when it comes to Shalltear I fear that for the time being there will be no quick fix. In the case of Albedo... the same." Ainz wearily said.

Since the cause for Shalltear's frustrations was Rylen for now, and with the deal with Aizen in mind, Ainz couldn't think of an easy fix. In the case of Albedo, he simply did not know what to think or what to do, as he was probably responsible for a lot of her being like she was after what he had done before the Transfer, so the only thing that came to mind was somehow placating her concerns.

"That aside, when it comes to gathering information on the Espada, our hands are tied as per what was discussed with Aizen. But that doesn't mean he can't be talked into opening up. At least a little."

"My apologies, Ainz-sama, but I'm afraid I don't follow."

Ainz couldn't blame Demiurge for that reaction. After all, if past experience had proven anything was that NPCs had difficulty accepting him going into danger. As things stood, Ainz saw no better option than talking to Aizen, and in all honesty he was curious about the alien being that was this "Shinigami", so he was curious about him.

How this topic should be broached he did not know, but he had given it some thought, and Ainz knew that Aizen clearly was more aware of Nazarick than felt likely, so that could be addressed. Indeed, if Ainz thought back to his past life and experiences, if a deal was to mutually benefit a party, there should be some equality and this felt like a point he could contest.

More than anything else, Ainz was preparing a gamble. One that was not easy for him to make, but he would do in order to better understand the situation, to safeguard what he had gained, to safeguard what had been left to him by his friends and to make sure their creations lived. These thoughts placated his concerns, slowly filled him with courage and as a result his eyes flared and his aura manifested for a moment.

"I wish to speak, with Aizen. One-on-One. Leader-to-Leader. Man-to-Man if you will." Ainz firmly announced.

"I... don't understand. Ainz-sama, I mean no offense, but we just discussed how we know little about the Espada. A one-on-one meeting could prove deadly, or some kind of ploy to capture you and use that against all of us." Demiurge pointed out, again finding a need to straighten his glasses and clothes in agitation.

"I doubt it. Aizen is powerful and certainly knows a lot about us, but I do not think he would have come to speak to us if we were that simple a 'problem' to deal with. We've shown how strong we are against a nation's army, so I can clearly see why we would be seen as a menace that should be eliminated. We are also non-human so harder to find trustworthy. Yet this Aizen decided not to subjugate or destroy us, but to make a deal. Perhaps he finds it possible to keep us around and later destroy us, not doing it now to save himself the trouble and inherited losses. Or, considering the fact that he would take losses into account, he truly desires in some way form a union between himself and our nation, not wanting to lose the weight we bring to things. In other words, there's room for negotiation."

While his tone was filled with confidence, in actuality Ainz wasn't sure of any of this. Still in the past he knew of guilds far stronger than those around them, who held back on that advantage for some benefit the weaker party provided. There were many reasons for that, and Ainz just voiced those that came to him in the moment. So the possibility of there being room for talking did not seem impossible when taking all this into account.

If there wasn't, Aizen wouldn't have come to Nazarick. Meaning, that the deal while in effect, did not stop further negotiations and discussions. His experience as a salaryman showed him the same logic as sometimes larger companies wouldn't bother buying out smaller ones, but still profit from them in some way.

"Hmm... Alas, this still leaves one problem... Demiurge, I need you to step out, and I will call Albedo here. When she arrives, you enter the room shortly after. The same goes for all the Eight-Edge Assassins here." Ainz promptly instructed.

Before their lord's command, all the NPCs could do was bow and leave. Ainz was then given a moment to sink into his seat as brought his hands to his face, letting out a sigh. He did not know what Albedo would say, but based on past experience it wouldn't be easy to deal with or process. At the same time his body tensed at the thought of risking the NPCs in a world where their resources weren't unlimited.

Given how powerful Aizen seemed to be, an easy victory was unlikely, and certainly meant NPC losses, damage to Nazarick, and the still young Sorcerer Kingdom. That all would lead to further wasting limited resources, and above all that damage, the legacy he so dearly wanted to protect.

Using [Message], Ainz instructed for Albedo to come to the throne-room, telling her to come in through the door, so that she would cross paths with Demiurge. In about 5-minutes, Ainz was now in the company of Demiurge and Albedo, with the Eight-Edge Assassins having also returned to their posts.

"Thank you for coming here so quickly, Albedo." Ainz said in a soft, grateful tone.

"Of course. I would never leave you waiting, Ainz-sama." Albedo dutifully said with a bow.

"Did Demiurge tell you anything?"

"No, Ainz-sama."

It was a stupid question, since Ainz knew Demiurge wouldn't say or have time to say anything. Especially when it was such a sensitive matter and no order had been given. Yet deep down, Ainz wished he did not need to be the one to tell her.

"Demiurge and I have been discussing the topic of the Espada. It's become up very clear that Aizen seems to know more our side than we do about his. So after some consideration, I have decided that the best approach to attempt to remedy this would be to meet with Aizen."

"I-I do not mean to offend, Ainz-sama, but as you said we don't know much about them. It may be a great risk to do such a thing." Albedo said in concern, briefly eyeing Demiurge.

"My thoughts exactly." Demiurge calmly added.

"Yes, Demiurge echoed a similar concern. However, I decided to look beyond that. I do not believe the risk is as imminent as you think. From how Aizen behaved, violence is not a step he wants to take up-front. If that was the case he could already have done so, and there would've been no need to go through with this charade. It is my belief that he wishes to somehow benefit from our existence, and we in-turn can do just the same. But as it stands we know little about them. That is why I wish to speak one-on-one with Aizen, leader-to-leader." Ainz explained in a regal manner.

"But all his actions were nothing more than insults towards Nazarick and yourself, Ainz-sama~! I doubt someone like that will offer anything of use, assuming he doesn't try anything. As you said, his power is considerable." Albedo vehemently argued.

"Be calm, Albedo. Your concerns are noted, and shared by Demiurge and most likely everyone else. It's not like I will just walk into this meeting unarmed, or not have guards watching from a distance, but so will they. I want to ensure that the playing field is as equal as possible. This isn't a matter of openly overpowering another. It will be an official meeting between national leaders, where one side will try to gain something from the other. So neither side will act rashly." Ainz calmly stated.

Yes, he wanted to talk to Aizen and learn more about him, but since he also wanted to gain more information out of the man, Ainz knew that a certain competition would more than likely take place between them. Given the situation, while he wanted things to look as professional and welcoming as possible, it only made sense that countermeasures he could make would be shared with the Espada in a meeting like this.

"It is as Ainz-sama says. This is a risk, but as the Supreme One, his assessment of Aizen and what his intentions are, there's little doubt it's correct. As echoed by how Aizen himself has handled the situation. Though it is hardly the best situation arrangement." Demiurge matter-of-factly said.

"Then why not one of us? There is no need for Ainz-sama to take the risk. As Prime Minister, I am more than capable to address him in conversation. Experience with the people I've interacted with shows that they are highly receptive to me. Or Demiurge, since he has already interacted with Aizen and seemed so keen in accepting this situation." Albedo argued with thinly veiled anger.

"Hold your tongue, Albedo. I'm by no means 'accepting' anything. This is simply the nature of the situation. I can see that, along with what it may bring, good or bad. Also, if you had taken the time to study this Aizen, you would know that your 'appeal' is unlikely work on him. Nor is your diplomatic acumen as strong as mine or Ainz-sama's." Demiurge dismissively retorted.

"Nonetheless, as Prime Minister is it my duty, and to be Ainz-sama's shield."

"That isn't important for this situation, Albedo. And now is not the time for the two of you to argue." Ainz said with raised hand.

"But the risk..." Albedo tried to say, stopping when she noticed Ainz's still raised hand.

"Your being Prime Minister is not significant in my decision. Nor is my being the Sorcerer King, or Aizen the Holy King. He originally didn't come to us in that capacity, so it gives me a small advantage in future talks. Regardless, I am Ainz Ooal Gown, the master of the Great Tomb of Nazarick and the one who stayed behind. It is my duty to look after all of you, the legacy of my friends. So for this, just like with Shalltear, I will handle it myself." Ainz resolutely announced, finally lowering his hand.

Demiurge shifted his stance and looked over at Albedo, who for a moment opened her mouth, before gritting her teeth and tensing her body, curling her hands into fists so tightly that they seemed to be about to explode.

Outside of her disdain for Aizen, Albedo couldn't bare the idea of just like with Shalltear, standing back and seeing her beloved walk off into danger by himself. Although he won her confidence then, this time was different. Soon tears began to form in the corners of her eyes out of anger and frustration.

"..."

Demiurge went to speak, when Ainz rose to his feet.

"...!"

Albedo was suddenly brought back from her thoughts, her eyes immediately going up, when she felt Ainz's right hand on her shoulder, while the left presented her with a handkerchief.

"A-Ainz-sama, you don't need to bother yourself with me. I apologize for such an unbecoming display." Albedo quickly said, instinctually taking a step back.

"I insist. Clean your tears away Albedo." Ainz gently said.

"As you wish, Ainz-sama... And thank you."

Reaching out, Albedo accepted Ainz's handkerchief, their hands touching ever so slightly, before taking it and indeed using it to clear the corners of her eyes.

"It isn't my intention to worry any of you. Still, as someone in my position, there are things that only I can do. That is why even if I made the decision, I still need the council of Demiurge and yourself, as I dearly value it. So, as the leader of Nazarick, I can only ask you to accept my decision and support me as I open the way for us." Ainz said with a determined tone.

"As you wish, Ainz-sama." Both NPCs said in unison.

"Umu... You two are now dismissed and free to go about your day. I will later on ask for a missive to be written and delivered to the Espada." The Sorcerer King informed, before turning to go back to his throne.

"As you wish, Ainz-sama." Demiurge said, with a bow.

"Ainz-sama, your handkerchief. My apologies, but having used it I dirtied it." Albedo pointed out.

"It's fine. Keep it, if you wish." Ainz said, taking his seat.

"Oh? As you say."

With that the two NPCs left, giving Ainz a moment to relax and gather himself after such an intense exchange, with Demiurge going one way and Albedo another. The latter of whom Albedo waited until it felt like she was sufficiently alone, quickly looking around before stopping and looking down at the handkerchief. Her beloved's handkerchief that he had given to her. She would never wash it or risk having it go missing, as Albedo planned to add it to the things that reminded her of her beloved.

The missive was written that night, thanks to the use of teleportation magic and the presence of the Sorcerer Kingdom's embassy in Rimun. It was there that very night and in the morning was secretly left in the Espada's headquarters for Unohana, who still performed the role of attendant, to find and take to the person who now worked as the face for the business, Hilma Cygnaeus.

After being fused with a female snakefolk, she was now brunette, with jade-green eyes, and a slightly tanned complexion. The appearance and contents of the missive, caused Hilma to send word to Aizen, who managed to find some room to maneuver away from his allocated work for the morning, which included delegating some work to Amelia so he could go to the Espada's headquarters.

In what used to be Amelia's office, Aizen took a seat behind the desk, having summoned to meet with him the Diez Espada Alvis Kavaro, the Octava Espada Cayo Ozzik Gantz, and the Segunda Espada Annika Masador Aenar.

Resting on Alvis' shoulder was the Yoruichi duplicate in her cat form, with him and Cayo wearing rather regular garments as their lack of actual work allowed them to mostly wander certain areas of the nation and tend to other matters, while Annika was wearing a priestess' gown, with some alterations to better highlight her form.

"The reason for calling you here is an expected one, as the Sorcerer King wishes for us to meet in an area of his choosing one-on-one, so as to better solidify the deal we made underneath what the public can see." Aizen coolly informed.

"And how may we be of service in that regard?" Annika inquisitively asked, as the others waited for more details.

"The missive was very upfront about how they will be taking measures to keep the area secured, and how they will be employing some of their own to be there at a distance. Naturally, we'll be allowed to do the same. I asked you to be here Annika, so that you can be kept informed about the arrangements as a whole, while Cayo and Alvis are here for a specific reason." Aizen replied in his usual calm and collected manner.

"Are we going to be tasked with guarding the area?" Alvis asked curiously.

"I would imagine a stronger and higher ranked duo would be employed for that. Like Leinas and Nazz." Annika chuckled in good humor.

"Ouch…" Cayo mumbled in ironic humor.

"Both of them have gone to the Dragon Kingdom, so I have already decided on Rylen, Jaecar and Elsa." Aizen matter-of-factly pointed out.

"Ah, what a shame.~ Jaecar and Elsa were on a beach in the southern half of the Holy Kingdom. As for Leinas and Nazz, it's really cute to see them go back to those they love~" Annika chuckled.

"Yeah, I rarely see them around. Must be one of the perks of being so high-ranked." Cayo nonchalantly mused crossing his arms.

"Haven't you taken time to go and see your family?" Alvis asked, causing Cayo to just look up at the ceiling in reply.

"Now that is sorted, the matter for which I summoned you two." Aizen regally said, regaining the focus of the duo.

"This meeting shouldn't take an entire day, but one shouldn't discount that possibility out of hand. Especially when dealing with a group as peculiar as Nazarick. Amelia is already taking up some of my work, along with her own. Calca has her own concerns, and Kelart and the Prince have duties that depend on me. So I ask you Alvis, if you have finished studying the material I sent you and if you feel capable of discussing and assisting Kelart with it?"

"I'll admit that politics aren't something I am comfortable with, but numbers are another matter. While I'm unsure how talking with someone like Kelart will go, I can certainly take on those duties if you wish." Alvis dutifully replied.

"Lucky man. Getting to spend time with a beauty like that. Getting to get close to her." Cayo chuckled, playfully elbowing Alvis.

"I am aware, but let's not discuss that right now."

"Cayo may be blunt about it, but you do understand that getting 'close' to her is not discouraged, correct?" Annika asked with a cunning smirk.

"I am aware." The youth said with rolling eyes, before looking back at Aizen.

"No need to push yourself, of course. Be mindful of your main goal. The rest I'll leave to your discretion. Cayo on the other hand, I called you here to put into motion what I had mentioned in the past about 'placating' Remedios." Aizen said plainly, with Cayo replying with a weary sigh.

"Yeeesh... I've been in her presence and she's such a pain. With all due respect, Aizen-sama, she is a gorgeous woman, probably on the level of the Queen, but she has such a bad personality."

"I leave the methods to you. While her contrarian nature does allow for some mildly amusing suggestions from time-to-time, more often than not it is a hindrance and waste of time. By no means do I intend to clip one of the Queen's 'Twin Wings', but I do want less of her unnecessary interventions. Especially when she does not approve of many of the people we hold a relationship with. While making 'adjustments' to her using magic or other means is possible, using such lengths on one such as her is laughable. So at the very least, I want her distracted."

"I'll do it of course, I just wanted to make it clear that it won't be easy. Especially when I think she dislikes me."

"Pffft~! Given how you can be at times, that isn't hard." Annika added, holding in a laugh.

"What did I... I mean..." He tried to argued, before sighing and bowing towards Aizen.

"Always good to see my Espada get along... If we are understood, Alvis and Cayo will gather their things. Make whatever preparations you need and go to the Royal Palace to meet with Kelart with word from the King to assist her. Cayo is there for extra security and because he is part of Alvis' duo." The Holy King instructed.

"As you wish." Both Espada said, before bowing and departing.

"What about me Aizen-sama?" Annika asked, as she was now alone with him.

"Rylen, Jaecar and Elsa will be here soon, and I also want you there for that discussion." He replied.

"Of course. I assume my assignment remains the same given what I've been doing in the Holy Kingdom and keeping an eye on the new embassy."

"Indeed. Although, depending on how things develop with this sudden meeting, it may change." Aizen mused with an amused expression.

"Oh? Do you believe that significant changes to the current state of things could happen?"

"I don't believe so. If anything, this is an attempt by Ainz to even the scales, as I would imagine that he has noticed how one side is more aware of the other."

Yes, it was try that overall, Aizen wasn't surprised by this turn of events. He had no issue with the meeting, and he was certainly curious to see what path it would take. From his assessment, he couldn't imagine Ainz making any major plays, or take any major risks at this point, since doing so in a one-on-one would be very foolish.

Aizen mused on the fact that as things stood now, with Nazarick probably looking more deeply into his past actions, a few things would be laid bare, which was a pity but inevitable at this point. Still, he could think of a few things that could be done, in case he needed to show more of his hand.

Time continued moving towards the eventual meeting of the two Kings. On the side of Nazarick, things took a particular turn as Ainz delegated some of his duties to Albedo, Demiurge, and even Pandora's Actor, while essentially locking himself in his study in Nazarick, surrounded piles of reports which he went over with almost maniacal fervor.

In his mind there was no room for mistakes or misconceptions. This was a unique event since coming to this world, since he was going to speak to someone who was on equal terms with himself. So any half-truths and guesses would need to be held upon a solid foundation of facts, and for that he devoted his time to study reports and information gathered by Nazarick that he had in the past only skimmed or outright ignored.

Ainz was still being watched over by Eight-Edged Assassins, but no one else was allowed until stated otherwise. Standing guard in front of his door was Sebas Tian, who ensured that their master would not be disturbed. It was a fairly standard watch, but he was akin to an unmoving sentinel that none dared approach. This as until Albedo appeared before him with a few papers in her hands, her eyes keenly looking him over.

"Sebas, I need to pass and see Ainz-sama." Albedo professionally informed.

"Were you invited in?" He stoically asked.

"I... No. I was not."

"Then I cannot let that happen as per Ainz-sama's orders." Sebas pointed out with a courteous bow.

"I am aware of his orders, but I bring information that could be critical for his meeting with that man Aizen." Albedo calmly explained, even as she fairly spat Aizen's name.

"Hm... Very well." Sebas said, knocking on the door just by moving his hand back.

[Something the matter, Sebas?] Ainz asked, via [Message].

[My apologies for disturbing you Ainz-sama, but Albedo-sama is here, saying that she has important information for the meeting with Holy King Aizen.]

[Hoh? And she didn't [Message] me? Umu... Very well. Let her in.]

"Please go in, Albedo-sama."

As he spoke, Sebas stepped aside and opened the door, allowing Albedo entry into the office, where she could now look upon Ainz surrounded by piles and piles of papers. Something that bothered her as it felt like if she had done something better she could have avoided all this trouble for her beloved.

"You may approach." Ainz said, motioning with his left hand as he used his right to put papers aside.

"I apologize for intruding, Ainz-sama. I would have used [Message] to set up this face-to-face, but I thought that projecting my voice directly into your mind would disturb your train of thought." Albedo said, making her way to his right.

"Thank you for the consideration. Now, what brings you here?" He promptly asked.

Albedo stiffened a bit, before placing her papers down on the desk, which Ainz eyed briefly before looking back at her, waiting for a reply as she bowed to him.

"First, I must apologize, Ainz-sama. This research was started after the initial meeting with Aizen as a selfish desire to sate my own curiosity, despite knowing the possible consequences. I am deserving of whatever punishment you see fit for me." Albedo contritely said.

"I see. Well, the fact that you admitted it and are presenting it is a step forward. Still, before I can say anything else, I need to know what it is."

"Before Aizen made his intentions known, we had already gathered a great deal of information about the Espada's movements. Some of which I am aware Demiurge used for some of his own conclusions. We also gathered other pieces of information, which involved legends, rumors, and other happenings through the ages. Which included the disappearances of ships in what our maps tell us is an open area of sea off the Re-Estize coast. These were marked by the fact that sometimes, several months later, smaller vessels would wash-up on shore with survivors, but always male children. That is as far as the information went, as not many were interested in investigating, as those that did suffered the same fate as the rest. Except for the Espada, as Aizen and two others went there and returned, according to what we were able learn." Albedo informed, causing Ainz's eyes to brightly light up.

"Oh? And you think they found something there?"

"More than likely. They also probably found whatever was making the ships disappear, as I imagine whatever it was, is alive given the appearance of children."

"Hmm... That is a valid point..."

"Not only that, but more than likely there is something there that is hidden, and because of that it has yet to be detected outside by those that have gone there. Except for possibly Aizen's case, as his group returned." She analytically added.

"Something hidden..."

In that moment, as so many times in the past since coming to this new world, luck favored Ainz. As he thought on what Albedo told him, including trying to process the children part of the information, his eyes lingered on another report that was around him. One that had what little they knew of Cthalpi in this world, which was another issue bothering him.

To have gotten a mention from only a single individual and little else, surely there was more to it. For that name to be known, either she was in this world, or some element of her guild or her guild itself was. Now that he thought of it, Cthalpi was the guild-master of the "Daughters of Cthylla" which had their base located in a very small island in the middle of a massive body of water in YGGDRASIL.

In addition, one time Cthalpi had used a Super-Tier spell to hide it from other Players when it was newly established. In that case it wasn't impossible that the same had been done here. That somewhere within that blank spot on the map was an area hidden by magic, and inside of that area, at the very least was Cthalpi or some remnant of her. NPCs could explain the people going missing, and the children some twisted attempt to increase numbers or create laborers for some purpose.

"Ainz-sama?"

Albedo had been talking this entire time, stopping when she noticed Ainz's body simply stopping, the light vanishing from his eyes as he fell into a state of deep thought. In his mind Ainz continued processing information, painfully admitting that the only way that Cthalpi could have gotten detailed information on Nazarick was through Akemi.

It meant that either some record existed or that someone was in that hidden location to pass it on to Aizen, who proved himself too much of a problem to be handled like those that came on ships. Still, this didn't tell him much about how strong Aizen truly was, and Cthalpi's strength aside, depending on how long she or whoever had been around, their resources may have been exhausted long ago. If they were hidden well enough, then depending on their race they could certainly still be alive.

"Umu. Well done on this research. Now, putting it all together and taking into account the information you have provided, my instincts tell me that there is a chance of this being where whatever is left of Cthalpi resides." Ainz informed, surprising Albedo.

"A-As expected of Ainz-sama~! I admit that I hadn't considered that myself as I was still putting the pieces together. But that certainly means that this may be a location of great importance for Aizen." She happily remarked.

"Umu... That is one of the reasons we won't go there." He mused, leaning back on his seat.

"One of the reasons, Ainz-sama?"

"Indeed. There is something that a wise man once said that I know, and I would imagine Cthalpi would also be familiar with: 'That is not dead which can eternally lie, and with strange aeons even death may die'. To put it simply, from what little we know of Cthalpi, her guild, and her guild-base, they were long lived. If they kept hidden for who knows how long, it implies we would be walking into a situation where, depending on how things have developed, what we knew of them from before may not even apply." Ainz coldly explained.

"I see. There are simply too many things that we do not know or could have changed in a path that is difficult to perceive."

"Indeed. We could find there things that we so far have only theorized, or things that for the time being we can't accomplish but over time grew into being depending on how long this was going on for."

"As you say. And I am glad to learn that my selfish curiosity was of use to you." Albedo said with a bow.

"Umu... About that, you spoke of a punishment. I will think about it in due time, but for now I will tell you to not do these things on your own again. They may affect the balance of our current arrangement. If that is all, you are dismissed, Albedo. I still have much to do." Ainz calmly waved.

"Your words are far too kind for someone like me, Ainz-sama. Thank you." She gratefully replied, with another bow.

Rising, she then departed to return to her duties, feeling as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders and bathed in the familiar warmth that came from her beloved's approval. Although it came from something she was doing on the side, it still proved useful. For a moment, Albedo felt at peace, providing her love with some important insight, and in doing so hopefully lifted a weight from his shoulders.

Sadly, in reality the weight on Ainz's shoulders had increased, because more and more the reality of what Akemi, the sister of one of his friends, was a spy was something that pierced his non-existing heart. The fact that Cthalpi or something related to her was out there, that Aizen had his hands on it, meant he had who knows how much information on the Great Tomb and its inhabitants.

This meeting was going to be very important. Ainz was sure of it. He knew that he couldn't let these things bog him down no matter how hard it was. He assured Albedo and Demiurge that they could trust him, and he had silently vowed to protect his friend's legacies, and he wasn't going to let that vow be broken so easily.

At the same time, while Albedo was feeling relieved with how well things had gone, her hate for Aizen and the slights he inflicted against her beloved were still clear in her mind. She was at peace for her efforts having been recognized and of use, yet she still wished that Ainz would turn towards destroying Aizen and the rest of his ilk.

Alas, she felt like perhaps she needed a break of sorts, a moment with her collection or a bit of time dedicated to making more baby clothes. Or perhaps even make her beloved something. What else was there for Albedo, who until now had been musing the idea of using the squad that Ainz had assigned to her for finding other Supreme Beings, to in fact crush some of that man's ego and smug expression...