Greetings to you all from 2024! I hope you have all had a good start to the new year!
Going to be very honest with you…this chapter almost wasn't released on time. I got to 7k words by Monday, and then I fell unwell for a few days which meant I didn't write a thing until yesterday, so if the last third or so of the chapter feels a bit rushed it's because I wrote it in the space of two days, but I'll be damned if I wasn't going to get this chapter out on time if I possibly could!
daniel: Another day, another chapter! Had great fun with this one as always! Solo Leveling has been as amazing as I hoped it would be! You guys need to check it out if you haven't! My co-author sure enjoyed this chapter because Renner fully showcased her yandere side! Now let's get into it!
My co-author couldn't have put it better! Solo Leveling has lived up to the hype so far, and the rest of the anime I'm watching this season (Chained Soldier, Season 3 of Blue Exorcist and the continuation of Shangri-La Frontier) have all hit the ground running. Let's hope it continues!
Enough waffling…let's get to why you are all here…the next chapter of the Nazarick Triumvirate featuring, as daniel spoiled, my favourite Yandere Princess Renner! As always, the usual disclaimer that neither I nor daniel own Overlord or any of its characters, locations, events or anything else related to the anime, manga or Light Novels. The only things we own are our OCs, Henry and Fengxian. ENJOY!
Chapter 21 – A Peek Behind the Curtain
After sending Solution off to collect Tuare, Alfred and Sebas ascended the stairs of the mansion in silence. For Sebas, the realisation that he would be judged by the Lord of Nazarick himself, in front of the rest of the Supreme Beings and some of the Guardians, was still sinking in. And despite his normal composure, he couldn't help but be a little worried. Not for himself of course…after all, he had been the one who went against their orders and had gotten Tuare involved in the first place. No…what was most on his mind was what would happen to the poor girl if anything should happen to him during the judgement. Even though he had the utmost faith in both his Crown Prince's word and the judgment of his Master, there was still the nagging thought of…what if his dereliction of duty came at the ultimate price? Who would look after Tuare if he were to die?
His lord must have sensed his unease if his next statement was anything to go by. "You look worried, Sebas," he asked concernedly as they walked down the hallway to the room that Solution had mentioned. "If you have something on your mind, speak now before we go to meet with my Father."
For a split-second, Sebas thought about trying to hide his concerns but then remembered that was what had gotten them into this mess in the first place. And truth be told, after his kind words earlier he would be remiss to keep anything from the man who he had sworn himself to. "Just…concern for my charge, Lord Constantine," Sebas told him. "Should anything happen to me…I fear for her fate. She was an abused slave before I rescued her, and I don't think she has anyone else who would look out for her."
Alfred nodded understandingly before resting his hands on Sebas' shoulders, giving him a look of compassion and determination. "Sebas…like I told you before, I promise I will do everything I can to make sure that Father spares you. But even if I can't, as his friend, adopted son and heir, I have complete faith in him and his judgement, and I know he will make the right decision not just for you, but also for all of Nazarick. And you are a key part of its future, so I'm positive he will not discard you so carelessly." He then squeezed Sebas' shoulders. "But just in case the worst should happen and I can't save you…then I promise, on my name and the name of my dear friend, idol and mentor Touch Me, that I will see to Taure's safety myself and take care of her so that she never has to return to that life."
Again, it took all of Sebas' legendary composure not to show any more emotion than a grateful smile at his Crown Prince's benevolent words. "Lord Touch Me…you would be so proud of how your friend and protege has followed in your footsteps. No person or entity in this world has more compassion in his heart than him, and I cannot thank you enough for your final gift. Even if I am to die here, I would with no regrets having been in the service of such a wonderful man…" "T-thank you, my Crown Prince. Your endless consideration and care for your subjects is beyond compare."
The man only smiled in return as they approached the room where the others were waiting. Motioning for Sebas to remain where he was, Alfred knocked on the door and opened it before speaking a few words to the occupants within. After their quick discussion, Alfred told Sebas to wait outside until he was summoned in before disappearing through the door and closing it behind him. As the minutes ticked by, every second to Sebas felt like an hour as he waited with endless patience for his judgement. During that time both Solution and Tuare appeared to wait alongside him. The former had retained her grim and sombre expression from earlier, while the latter, clad in the maid uniform the Pleiades Maid had given to her, seemed both confused and frightened. Sebas tried his best to give her a reassuring smile, tinged as it was with grim anticipation, and as the young girl smiled at him, the door to the room opened once again. However, in place of the adventurer persona he had been using for the time he had been here, it was clearly Crown Prince Henry who looked at all three of them with an unusually stern expression on his face.
"He will see you all now," was all the Crown Prince said before ushering them in. Giving Tuare another nod of assurance, Sebas led the small group into the room behind him.
It was as Solution had told them earlier: At the far end of the room, sat on the most ornate chair in the house, was the intimidating robed figure of his Master. On his right-hand side stood Demiurge, his tail swinging back and forth as he watched the group enter with a sinister smile on his face and in whose arms rested the small form of Victim, whose empty eyes seemed to be watching them with both sadness and compassion. To his lord's left, resplendent in his dark armour that seemed to cast a long-reaching shadow on those who entered, stood Grand Marshal Fengxian, his trusty halberd clutched as usual in his right hand. Standing to the warlord's right, her pale complexion concealed by her usual robe and hood, was Miss Ninya. Was it a trick of Sebas' mind, or did the young undead jump a little in startlement upon seeing them enter the room?
But there was one other standing there to Ninya's left whom Solution hadn't mentioned earlier: Miss Jemima, who was looking solemn and slightly fearful at the scene unfolding in front of her. "Though it is not my place to understand the will of the Supreme Beings, why have my lords brought these two young girls here?" Sebas couldn't help but wonder. But before he could muse further, the Lord of Nazarick cleared his throat causing everyone in the room to turn their heads towards him.
"Our last three guests have arrived," he intoned as the Crown Prince moved to take his usual place on his father's right-hand side. Immediately, Demiurge shifted towards the corner of the room to make space for both him and Solution who, as befitting a consort of the heir, stood beside her beloved. "Good, we can finally get down to business."
~TNT~
As Henry walked over to stand by his adopted Father's side, he reached out to him via Message. (Suzi, I know this is something you have to do given he went against our orders, but please…he only did what he felt was right and compassionate. You know Sebas, like all of the others, would never deliberately go against Nazarick…)
(Ise…out of respect for our bond, I hear and appreciate what you are saying, but at the same time your closeness to both Sebas and our friend Touch Me is causing you to be biased in this whole affair) His friend interrupted him with a coldness that shocked the Crown Prince. Having known him for years back in the real world, Henry knew his friend was both kind and reasonable, so to hear him speak with such sternness…was what Ki had warned them of all those weeks ago coming to pass? Were the souls of his friends slowly becoming darker much like their avatars were? (I cannot afford to show any misguided leeway or compassion due to past bonds. I have to judge this fairly and with the information I have at hand, but I will consider your request. That's all I'll say on the matter)
(I…I understand, and I know that you have to do what you must) Henry relented as he took his place next to his friend. (But thank you for hearing my words)
Ainz did not indicate that he'd heard his reply as his piercing gaze went straight through Sebas and Tuare. To his credit though, the elderly butler did not flinch or back down from his Master's causal attempt to intimidate him, but the same couldn't be said for the young maid as she wilted under his fearsome glare. "I'm sure I don't need to explain my presence here to you, Sebas. Correct?"
"N-no…there is no need, my lord," Sebas replied with a slight stutter that betrayed the nerves he was feeling.
"Where's your handkerchief, Sebas? You're sweating something awful," Ainz continued, indicating Sebas' suit pocket where the small cloth was usually stored but had been lost during the raid on the brothel. He pulled another one out of his inventory system before throwing it at the elderly butler. "Here. I'll lend you one of mine so that you can clean yourself up."
"Y-you are my most gracious, my lord," Sebas murmured. As he proceeded to wipe his face, Ainz's piercing gaze turned to Tuare.
"So…you must be Tuare," Ainz said before beckoning her forward with a finger. "Come closer…let me look at you properly." The young girl gulped but did as she was bidden, taking a few nervous steps forward but remaining a respectful distance away from the skeletal mage. From her place at Grand Marshal Fengxian's side, Ninya looked as though she wanted to speak or protest in some form, but her rational side stilled her tongue and movements. "Good…you didn't run or flinch. I'm impressed."
Nearly everyone in the room breathed a sigh of relief at Ainz's words while Tuare chanced a glance back at Sebas, who gave her a reassuring smile and nod. It was Demiurge however who still wasn't convinced by this girl. He was just about to use his words to force her to kneel when he was stopped by a raised hand and glare from his Grand Marshal.
"Easy there, Demiurge…she is no threat to us," Fengxian assured him. "Let us hear what the girl and Sebas have to say for themselves before we resort to forceful methods of restraints."
"My apologies for my lack of tact, Grand Marshal. You are correct of course," the demonic Guardian replied. "I was just momentarily concerned for my lord's safety, nothing more."
"Your concern for my safety is appreciated, Demiurge, but I hardly see this girl being a match for me," Ainz jested, even as he continued to pierce the girl with his full and unrelenting stare. "Besides, I doubt you are here to harm us, are you girl?"
"N-no sir," Tuare answered with a mix of fear and respect.
"You are probably curious as to my identity and why your saviour Sebas is treating me with absolute deference," the undead continued in a much friendlier tone. "You stand in the presence of Ainz Ooal Gown, and you would do well to remember that name…for I am the master of everyone in this room including Sebas. Is that understood?"
"Y-yes, S-I mean, Lord Ainz…I understand," Tuare answered, her self-preservation instinct kicking in as she lowered herself into a deep curtsy and bow. Judging by the approving nods and expressions from everyone in the room, she'd done the correct thing.
"It would appear that you understand respect and who your betters are…very good…" Ainz genuinely complimented her before turning the full force of his gaze back to Sebas who was now standing at her side. "Now then…back to the matter at hand. Sebas…I thought myself and the others warned you not to draw attention to yourself. Is that correct?"
"It is, Lord Ainz," Sebas answered.
"And yet you have courted calamity for the sake of this girl," Ainz continued mercilessly, and it was taking all of Henry's self-control not to jump to his subordinate's defence. It was as his friend said earlier…whatever action he took would be viewed as biased due to his closeness to both Sebas and Touch Me. He couldn't get involved, no matter what happened. "Am I wrong?"
"You are not, Lord Ainz, and I humbly beg your forgiveness," Sebas said with a deep bow. "I am deeply sorry that my indiscretion has caused you trouble. Nothing like this will happen again on my watch. You have my word…"
"Enough!" Ainz interrupted forcefully with a raised hand. "Everyone makes mistakes, including myself and the other Supreme Beings. But be at ease…this blunder is trivial and can be forgiven…if you can make amends for your error, that is."
"What would you have me do, my lord?" Sebas asked.
"Time to truly test his dedication to Nazarick…Ise, I hope you can forgive me for this…" Ainz's command was simple, yet it elicited gasps of shock and worry from many who were present. "Kill her."
(WHAT THE HELL, SUZI?!) Henry's furious reaction was both sudden and expected. (THE GIRL IS INNOCENT! BOTH SHE AND SEBAS DON'T DESERVE THIS!) As for the others, Ninya was visibly trembling as she continued to try and hold herself back whilst Jemima looked as though she was going to be ill. Solution was torn between her beloved's concern for Sebas, her loyalty towards her superior and her obedience to the Lord of Nazarick, and even Fengxian couldn't help but tilt his head a little in surprise at his friend's declaration. The only one who didn't respond negatively was Demiurge. In fact, the demon's smirk had widened a little in predatory anticipation as to what may occur.
(I'm sorry, both of you, but this has to be done) Ainz tried to reassure his friends. (But trust me when I tell you that nobody will die today. You have my word). A slight nod of the head was Fengxian's only indication that he'd heard and agreed to whatever Ainz was planning. As for Henry…he could be seen visibly trembling with rage, but his respect and close bond with his adopted father figure/best friend was holding him back…at least for the moment.
As for the two concerned, Tuare let out a squeak of fright whilst Sebas' eyes widened in shock. Out of everything he'd been expecting to hear, that was the last thing he could have ever predicted. "M-my lord…is that truly necessary? The crime should be mine alone to bear…"
"Are you a loyal dog that serves me and the other Supreme Beings? Or a stray mutt that follows its own will?" Ainz replied in a dangerous tone. "Think hard before your answer…"
"Well I-"
"Not with words, but through your actions!" Ainz's interruption was brutal and swift and caught Sebas on the hop. But as he warred with himself and the choice he was going to make, he suddenly felt a tug on the sleeve of his suit. Looking over, he saw Tuare take a deep breath and give him a reassuring smile. She then closed her eyes, took a step back and held out her arms as if accepting her fate, an action that shocked and/or impressed everyone watching.
Setting his face grimly and determinedly, Sebas steeled himself for what he had to do. At the end of the day, the decision was a no-brainer. Despite the affection he had for this kind young girl, his loyalty and service to the Supreme Ones was absolute, and if this was what his Lord, Crown Prince and Grand Marshal wished for him to prove his loyalty…then so be it. Hesitating for only a second, he flung his fist straight at Tuare's face with all the strength he could muster…only for it to be blocked and caught at the last moment by an armoured black hand. Looking up in shock, he saw that it was none other than Grand Marshal Fengxian who had caught his blow and was now seemingly holding his fist back with what appeared to be little to no effort. "M-my lord Grand Marshal? Forgive me but…what is the meaning of-?"
"Step away, Sebas!" Ainz commanded. Both he and Demiurge were entirely unfazed by what had just transpired. As for the rest of the room, they all let out sighs of relief at seeing the young girl's life being spared.
(I understand what you did there, Suzi…) Henry's tone may have been one of relief, but the undercurrents of anger were still present. (I don't like the way you did it, but I understand…)
"Grand Marshal Fengxian…do you believe Sebas put enough force behind that blow to kill young Tuare?" Ainz asked the mammoth warlord.
"Without a doubt. Though I was able to hold it back, it was still a forceful punch…enough to take a head clean off," was the Grand Marshal's reply.
"In that case…I take it as undeniable proof that Sebas' loyalty to myself, the other Supreme Beings and Nazarick is genuine…an outcome that pleases me to no end," Ainz continued, causing both Sebas and Tuare's shoulders to sag in relief.
"My lord…I am grateful for both your justice and your mercy," Sebas answered with a bow, a gesture Tuare copied a split-second later.
"Now that that's settled…I believe we can move on to the next matter at hand. I believe you have gathered a sufficient amount of information during your assignment here, correct?" Both Sebas and Solution nodded at Ainz's enquiry. "For the moment, I will vacate this mansion and return to Nazarick to gather my thoughts for what will come next. And as for the fate of young Tuare here…give me some time to think about that also. I do not believe her death will be necessary, but I'm not yet certain of…"
"My lord!" Everyone turned their heads to see Ninya dash forward and get on one knee before the undead. "Allow me to indulge in a selfish request. Please…let her live and keep her safe, and I swear I will double my efforts in your cause. You have my word!"
"Oh? And why would you swear such for the sake of this girl, young Ninya?" Ainz asked curiously, Ninya's request having caught both him and the others off-guard.
"Because she is the only person I have left in this world who is dear to me aside from everyone in Nazarick," Ninya answered as, upon getting to her feet, she removed her hood and turned round to face everyone else in the room, and as she got a glimpse at Ninya's face Tuare couldn't get but gasp in astonishment and recognition. "Her full name is Taureninya Veyron…and she is my older sister."
"No way in Kami…out of everyone Sebas could have rescued, it just had to be Ninya's only surviving relative?" Henry thought to himself as nearly everyone else gasped in astonishment. "This sort of plotline only happens in fiction but I'm not complaining! Touching family reunions are often always one of the best and more emotional scenes."
"No wonder she looked so familiar…guess it was hard to see the resemblance given Ninya's an undead now…" Fengxian analysed as Tuare brought her hands to her mouth, her eyes filling with tears.
"C-Celi? I-is that you?" the girl asked with a small sob.
If Ninya had the capacity for tears, her eyes would be swimming in them. The best she could give was a warm smile as she approached the blonde girl. "It is, Tuare," she told her softly. "I'm so glad you're safe…and that Lord Sebas was able to find you…"
That was enough to break the dam of Tuare's emotions as, seemingly not caring for the state her sibling was in, she flung her arms around her and pulled her into a big hug as her eyes freely flowed with tears. In return, Ninya dropped her staff and clung to her sister tightly as the siblings finally had their long-awaited reunion.
The scene was so sweet that it brought a tear to Henry's eye. Sebas smiled warmly, so delighted was he that both Tuare and Ninya, girls he had come to care deeply about, had found each other again. Even Solution and Demiurge's expressions softened a little bit at what they were seeing, and though it couldn't be seen beneath his helm, Fengxian's face had also cracked into a small smile
Loathe as he was to interrupt this touching family reunion which brought joy to his darkening heart, Ainz coughed to get their attention which caused the sisters to spring apart, although they still clung to one another as though their lives depended on it. "So, this is the sibling you were searching for all this time, young Ninya? I am truly delighted for you. And as for your plea…I will take it under advisement when I make my decision towards her fate." Ainz then turned to face Demiurge. "I will be taking Victim back with me."
"Right," was all Demiurge replied as he handed the tiny Guardian to Ainz who wrapped him securely within his cloak.
"Until I return, my heir is in charge," Ainz stated as he got to his feet. "Greater Teleportation!" With a wave of his staff, Ainz and Victim disappeared in a flash of blue light. Once he had left, Tuare couldn't help but let out another relieved sob before pressing herself back into her sister's embrace, as though fearing she'd leave should she let go of her.
Noting this reaction, Sebas addressed his liege who was still smiling broadly at what he was seeing. "Not only has this all taken a toll on young Tuare here, but I believe she and her sister should be given some time to properly catch up. With your permission, my Crown Prince, I would ask that they be allowed to return to her room to do so."
"Granted," Henry answered with a magnanimous wave of his hand. "But before you go, I want you and Solution to hand over the reports you've gathered so far to Jemima and Demiurge. They will go through it and write it up properly, and then we shall discuss how we can make use of it."
"Of course," Sebas answered with another bow before inclining his head in Solution's direction. Catching his meaning, the Pleiades maid left the room to gather all the information he had collected. At the same time, Sebas escorted both Tuare and Ninya from the room and back towards her quarters. He assured them that they could take all the time they needed and that he'd be outside if they wanted anything. Both sisters thanked him profusely before withdrawing into the room to catch up.
~TNT~
A good deal of time later the door to Tuare's room reopened, pulling Sebas from his musings. Looking up he saw Miss Ninya leaving the room, a warm smile on her face as she walked over towards the elderly butler.
"Were you and Tuare able to catch up sufficiently young-" Whatever Sebas was about to say was cut off as Ninya wrapped her arms around Sebas' waist and pulled him into a tight embrace, catching the man off-guard for the moment.
"Thank you, Lord Sebas…for saving my sister and ensuring her safety," the undead mage murmured as she pressed her head into Sebas' chest.
Sebas smiled as he rubbed her hair warmly. Though he didn't know her too well, he had been impressed by how well the young girl had recovered from the tragedy of her death as well as losing her comrades and had since done her best to ingratiate herself within the ranks of the Great Tomb. Her resiliency and earnestness were traits that Sebas both respected and admired. "No thanks needed, young Ninya. I am glad you and Tuare have been able to reunite. After everything you have both been through, it's what you both deserve. I take it she was not too distressed by your appearance?"
Ninya smiled as she gave Sebas one final squeeze before letting go, her usual dull blue eyes currently shining with warmth and gratitude. "She was initially, but once I explained things to her she became more understanding of how I ended up this way and told me she was glad I'm still alive, even if I'm technically dead," she answered before lowering herself into a curtsy. "If there is anything I can do to repay you, you have only to ask. I am in your debt. Thank you again!" Before Sebas could reply, Ninya made her way back to the meeting room with a small spring in her step that caused the elderly butler's smile to widen. He then turned to face the door again as Tuare came out, a warm smile planted on her face as well which only brightened as soon as she laid eyes on Sebas.
"I gather your reunion with young Ninya was satisfactory for you as well?" He asked as she approached.
"I-It was, thank you Sebas," Tuare answered, fighting to hold back her tears. "Though I was shocked by her appearance…once she explained things to me, it all became much clearer." She then lowered herself into another proper curtsy. "Sebas…when you next see Lord Ainz and Crown Prince Henry…thank them on my behalf for everything they've done for Celi, and that if there is anything I can do to repay them for their kindness…they need only to ask…"
"Thank you, young Tuare…I will be sure to pass it on when I see them next," Sebas told her appreciatively even as his face fell into a frown. What he was about to say was morbid and would no doubt not go down well with the young girl, but it needed to be said regardless. "As for what happened in the meeting room…I do not intend to apologise for my actions. Everything I did, even if it appeared cruel…it was all for to keep you safe, Tuare…"
"I know." Her instant response caught Sebas flat-footed once again. "Having spoken to Celi and understanding slightly the workings of the place you belong to…I understand what happened was you having to prove your loyalty to your masters, and given all of the kindness you have shown me I would have gladly sacrificed myself to ensure your safety…"
"Tuare…" Sebas breathed, touched by her understanding. But the girl didn't appear to be done speaking yet.
"Please don't doubt yourself, Sir Sebas…the only reason I'm alive and happy and was able to reunite with my sister was because of you!" Tuare's eyes were now swimming with tears again as she reached forward and wrapped herself tightly around the butler's waist, much like her sister had done moments before. "Apart from the home I grew up in with Celi and my parents, this is the first place I've dwelled in that hasn't been hell. But even back then…you see, Celi and I were born and raised in a small farming village, and though we were surrounded by kindness and love our lives there were difficult. We had to tend to the fields on dry throats and empty stomachs, only to have the feudal lord take away most of the crop heaps whenever he came around. Those of us who didn't starve ended up going mad with hunger…and to make things worse, the lord treated us not as humans but as his own personal playthings. Even when I screamed and begged, he would laugh as he violated not only me but all of the other young girls as well!" Tuare's entire face was now tear-stricken as she looked up at Sebas. "But I couldn't break…because I knew if I did…Celi would be next! I couldn't…I couldn't let her be taken as they did to me-!"
"It's all right, Tuare. Hush," Sebas reassured her as he stroked her hair reassuringly, his expression sombre after hearing all of the pain and tribulations that both Tuare and Ninya had gone through in their youth. For them both to still be so stoic, determined and so eager to help people, even after all they had been through…they were both truly remarkable people that he was truly honoured and glad to have met and cared for and swore he would never let them suffer like that ever again. "But if you stay here…it may mean your death…"
"I don't care!" She sniffled. "I would rather be killed feeling the warmth of your hand. And if I were to die…I would be happy having felt the warmth of your touch and in the knowledge that my sister was safe…"
Her earnest plea was enough to solve the quandary that had been raging in his heart during the time Ninya and Tuare had been catching up with one another. "Tuare…I will ask Lord Ainz and Crown Prince Henry to take you back to Nazarick with me if that is truly what you wish. There, you will be able to spend as much time with your sister as you wish, and I'm sure we'll be able to find a place for you among us."
"Thank you, Lord Sebas," she murmured. "That's all I could ever want…to remain with you, and my sister…"
"But before I go, I must ask you something." Sebas pulled her out of his chest to look her square in the eyes. "Do either you or your sister have any attachments left in this world?"
"None, Lord Sebas," Tuare answered quickly. "Our parents passed away when we were still young. We are all that the two of us have left."
That was enough to satisfy the elderly butler. "Very well then. Go relax in your room again while I speak to my Lord and the Crown Prince again and make the request," he told her, placing his hands on her shoulders.
"Okay…" But just as Sebas was about to let go, Tuare stood up on the balls of her feet and pressed a warm, gentle kiss against his lips, wrapping her arms around his neck in the process.
"NGH!" Once more Sebas was left momentarily dazed and stunned at this sudden and unexpected show of affection. But as Tuare broke the kiss and looked at him with a visible blush on her cheeks, he couldn't help the warm feeling that rose in his own chest as a result. Was this how his Crown Prince felt every time one of his girls kissed him too?
"That tickled my chin…" Tuare murmured as she brought her hands together before giving Sebas another of her beaming smiles. "I've never had a happy kiss before…thank you for that." And despite his naturally stern and composed demeanour, Sebas couldn't help but break into a warm smile of his own upon seeing the pure happiness on her face.
~TNT~
Whilst the siblings were sharing their happy reunion, Demiurge was pouring over the reports that Solution had provided him and Jemima in the mansion's private office. After quickly duplicating the report for the girl, he had sent her back to Nazarick to write it up in full detail, which would then be used as the basis for their future plans for the Kingdom of Re-Estize.
As expected of the meticulous butler and loyal maid, the information they had gathered from various sources as well as from their own observations wasn't long-winded and full of details on pointless subjects, but rather neat and concise bullet points on the structure of the Kingdom, the main players, the extent of the corruption going on within the walls of both the capital and the castle and even one or two rumours or pieces of gossip that could be used to influence or control those elements that would need subverting. However, there was one particular topic that was proving to be quite the ingenious puzzle even for the calculating mind of Nazarick's Seventh Floor Guardian, and it had to do with this Kingdom's so-called 'Golden Princess', Renner.
Having analysed the information on the Princess meticulously, which had come by from overhearing gossip, their own limited observations as well as from the Princess' young bodyguard Climb, Demiurge found himself both marvelling and being quite intrigued by how this seemingly naïve and innocent girl was able to maintain such a flawless and exemplary reputation in a Kingdom that was so rankled by corruption to the point where criminal elements had managed to get into the pockets of the powerful nobles and even a member or two of the royal household, which led him to conclude one of two possibilities: Either she was genuinely this good of a person, which again should've been an impossible task in a nation so plagued by dissident elements, or her immaculate persona was a front that concealed deeper motivations or opportunities. And if it was the latter…then she was playing a high-risk game with her own secret agenda in a sea full of ruthless and cunning opportunists and had so far, given how her perfect image had been maintained and was still widely lauded, remained undetected.
Whatever the reason was, it was worth investigating. And it wasn't just her that would be worth keeping an eye on…each member of the Royal Family, and perhaps one or two members of each faction of nobles, should now be considered prime candidates for observation. His decision reached, Demiurge quickly and quietly summoned a small group of Shadow Demons to himself and ordered them to discreetly observe and report on the behaviours and actions of the Royal Family, especially Princess Renner, and some of the Nobility and Royalty Factions without drawing suspicion upon themselves. As the Shadow Demons withdrew to carry out his bidding, Demiurge gathered up the notes and continued to peruse them as he headed back towards the meeting room where he had once again been requested to meet with the Supreme Beings, Sebas and Miss Ninya to decide on Miss Tuare's fate.
Demiurge's initial intent when he'd heard about Sebas' apparent duplicity and the involvement of this girl would have been to suggest either her death or having her slave away in one of his farms. However, given her bond with Miss Ninya and how his Crown Prince seemed to be taking an interest in her, no doubt on Sebas' behalf, Demiurge internally conceded it may be wiser to still his tongue instead of potentially drawing the ire of his Crown Prince.
~TNT~
"Thank you for indulging me, my lords," Sebas spoke upon entering the room, his face still flushed crimson from Tuare's unexpected kiss. As he looked around, he saw that everyone bar Lord Ainz from the previous meeting was currently present and that his Crown Prince and Demiurge in particular were watching him with expressions of mirth on their faces.
"Is something wrong there, Sebas? Your face is bright red," Demiurge observed teasingly.
"Y-you need not worry, Lord Demiurge. Everything is perfectly fine." Though Sebas' tone and expression were as composed as usual, it wasn't hard to miss the nervous stutter in his words. Thanks to his keen dragon senses along with the fact that he knew Sebas better than anyone, Henry was able to tell that Sebas had just been through an experience he wasn't sure how to react to, and from his stutter, he was able to guess pretty easily what had just happened.
"Seems like I'm not the only ladies' man in Nazarick after all…Good on Sebas though, he deserves such after everything he's done for us," the Crown Prince thought to himself with pride and happiness. "I just wish Touch Me could've had the chance to see this…"
"No need for such formality with me, Sebas. We are equals in the service of our Lords after all…" Henry couldn't help but be a little perplexed by Demiurge acting respectfully towards Sebas. Much like it had been with respective Supreme Beings back in YGGDRASIL, Demiurge and Sebas' conflicting ideologies and personalities often caused them to butt heads and argue with one another should they be in the same room with one another. "Either Demiurge is really making an effort to be nice, or I'm just reading too much into it. Either way, it's good to see them behaving respectfully towards one another at least…"
"As you wish, L-Demiurge," Sebas answered with a small bow in the demon's direction. Before anyone else could speak up, Ainz suddenly reappeared in the same chair he'd been sitting in earlier causing everyone to suddenly turn around and fall to one knee in his presence.
"Very good, you're all here. Rise," he proclaimed, causing everyone to get back to their feet just as quickly as they had knelt. "Now then, I believe that meeting went well. How about everyone else? Have any of your anxious thoughts been abated? I, for one, never questioned Sebas' loyalty to me or Nazarick, and it was wonderful to see the sisters being able to reunite after so long."
"You already know my thoughts on the matter, Father," Henry spoke up first of all. "It never crossed my mind for even a moment that Sebas could have possibly betrayed us. If I were in his place, I confess that I may well have taken the same actions." His face then morphed into a warm smile as he regarded Ninya. "And I am glad that you have found your sister again…such joyful moments are to be both celebrated and cherished in these uncertain times."
"I share my Crown Prince's opinion on both matters," was all Fengxian had to say.
"I only contacted my Crown Prince and Lord Ainz because I believed Lord Sebas' actions could have compromised Nazarick's safety," Solution answered. "But just as my beloved said, I never doubted Lord Sebas' loyalty for one moment, and I too am happy at seeing Miss Ninya reunited with her sister."
"In the short time I've known him, Lord Sebas has always treated me with kindness and respect," Ninya added. "And from what I have been told by Miss Narberal, Lord Ainz and Crown Prince Henry, he is a loyal and dignified man who I was certain would never betray us. And now…I owe him a lifetime debt of gratitude that I fully intend to repay every day for saving my sister from certain death and seeing to her recovery." Sebas' noble heart swelled with affection and joy from the praise and affirmations of his loyalty that he was getting from not only the Supreme Beings but everyone else present as well. What he didn't expect, however, was for Demiurge to start echoing similar sentiments
"I am satisfied, and I am deeply sorry for my lack of faith in Sebas' loyalty," the demonic Guardian spoke up with a contrite bow. "Despite your trust in him, you still granted my request to test his loyalty and it's greatly appreciated."
"So that test for Sebas wasn't Suzi's idea at all! That makes me feel somewhat better about it, though I'm still a little bit miffed at him for allowing it…" Granted, Henry could understand now why his friend would have allowed it. It would have made little sense for Sebas' actions to go completely without punishment given how it may have led to the compromising of his mission, and by indulging in Demiurge's request it would have satisfied the demonic Guardian that his opinions and suggestions were being considered at the very least by his ruler.
"It's no matter. I have oversights as well, as I'm sure do the Crown Prince and Grand Marshal at times," Ainz placated Demiurge with a raised hand before turning to face the rest of them. "Now then…I believe we were going to discuss what to do with young Tuare. Given her connection to young Ninya here, I think bringing her with us back to Nazarick would be the ideal solution, but I have yet to decide what role she would have among us. If anybody has any suggestions, please speak up now."
"If I may, my Lords…I have a solution." Everyone's gaze turned to Sebas as he spoke. "I would have young Tuare put to work in the Great Tomb as one of our maids. After all, she is already highly skilled in maidly duties and is an excellent cook, a fact that both I and Miss Solution can both personally attest to." Solution nodded in confirmation of his words. "And since only a few in Nazarick possess such skill when it comes to preparing food, I believe adding her to their number will help lighten the load if only a little."
"Indeed? Well if you and Solution both vouch for her skill, I suppose it is worth considering…" Ainz mused. Though it was of no concern to him given how he couldn't eat, he saw by the lightening of his eyes that Henry had gotten just that little more excited at the thought of there being more exquisite food in Nazarick and was certain, even if he couldn't see his face, that Fengxian was probably thinking along the same lines.
"But my lords…with no disrespect intended towards Miss Tuare or Miss Ninya here, are we certain the girl could prepare food worthy of Nazarick and the Supreme Beings?" Demiurge asked. Though there was no malice behind his question, his words had raised Sebas' heckles judging by the frown forming on the man's face.
"Tuare seems well-versed in cooking household fare," he retorted. "Whether or not is worthy of our Crown Prince and Grand Marshal I could not say, so I would leave it up to their revered judgement if they should deem to sample it."
"I for one believe that something as common as steamed potatoes has no place in the Tomb, much less on the plates served to our Supreme Beings," Demiurge countered with a dangerous smirk.
"I cannot help but think you are being too hasty in your judgement, Demiurge," Sebas growled. "If she is capable of homely meals, then I am sure she would be up to other forms of cooking. We should be looking to the future after all…" As the two continued to bicker back and forth, it reminded the three Supreme Beings of how their creators, Touch Me and Ulbert, used to quarrel back in the day...
~TNT~
*Flashback*
In the Great Tomb of Nazarick, there were always several guarantees for what would happen on a regular basis. One: Henry lusting over either Albedo, Solution, Lupusregina and Narberal either visually or verbally. Two: Warrior Takemikazuchi challenging Touch Me to another duel to prove who was the strongest. Three: Either Peroroncino finding a way to embarrass his sister, or Bukubukuchagama going after him once she'd caught him out. Fourth: Bukubukuchagama teasing the ever-living hell out of her little brother figure Henry over his not-so-secret longing for the aforementioned beauties.
And fifth, and which often occurred on a daily basis: Touch Me and Ulbert finding something to quarrel over. Given how it seemed to happen all the time, most of the players would just end up shrugging their shoulders and leaving it be. As for Peroroncino, he'd found a way to manufacture a bag of popcorn and had invited a reluctant Momonga, Fengxian and Bukubukuchagama to watch it go down:
"Come on Ulbert! We put farming the rare drops from Surt the Fire Giant on the guild calendar a few days ago!" Touch Me argued loudly with his arms folded. As was often the case, Henry was standing at his idol's side as he faced down Ulbert for the umpteenth time. "How could you forget?"
"You're the one who's forgotten, Touch," the goat-faced player answered with a weary sigh. "We still have several members who need to complete the Ice Dragon Hunt event, so that they can unlock the ability to change classes!"
"Yes, but Surt's drop rate is much lower than the Ice Dragon! It'd be far more efficient to take care of it first!" Touch Me passionately declared.
"He's right! The majority of us have already completed the Ice Dragon Hunt and the few who still need to can do that while we farm Surt's drops! That way, they can join us when we've already gotten some of Surt's drops for those who need them most like Momonga or Bukubukuchagama!" Henry interjected, causing Ulbert to sigh wearily once again.
"Touch…please tell your sidekick to tone down the devotion a notch. It's really getting on my nerves…" Ulbert groaned.
"Oh come off it Ulbert, you know I'm right!" Henry snarked, having heard this grumble from Ulbert many times over. "We need to get started on farming Surt before the other guilds catch up, otherwise we'll miss out!"
"Exactly!" Touch Me exclaimed with an appreciative smack against Henry's back. "It would also help warm them up!"
"Your sidekick only adds to your spoilt nature, Touch…" Ulbert shot back, causing those watching to snigger a little. Henry, however, never felt insulted by Ulbert's snide moniker. In fact, he always wore it with pride. "You are both unbelievable, you know that!"
"Look who's talking, Goat-Face!" Touch Me countered.
~TNT~
"Enough, both of you!" Fengxian's loud interjection snapped both Ainz and Henry out of their memories, returning them to the present as both Guardians stopped snapping at each other and turned to face their Grand Marshal apologetically. "You are in the presence of the Master and the Crown Prince…this conduct is unbecoming of you, and it will cease. NOW!"
"Pardon us, my lords…we were careless," Demiurge apologised with a deep bow.
"Our foolish behaviour was inexcusable," Sebas added with his own bow. What they didn't expect, however, was for the Lord of Nazarick to suddenly burst into laughter.
"I do not mind, really…please, be at ease!" He reassured them after getting himself under control. "Truth be told, I miss bickering like this…" Whatever else he was about to say faded as he burst into another round of laughter. Sebas and Demiurge looked at each other, momentarily taken aback by their lord's strange behaviour, while Henry couldn't keep but crack a small smile both at the memories this was bringing back and his friend's sudden levity. It was good to know his friend's soul was still somewhat intact if he could feel amusement such as this. Eventually, Ainz's emotional suppressor kicked in which forced him to recompose himself before speaking again. "I would like to speak to Tuare again. Solution…could you bring her here for me?"
"As you wish, my Lord Father," Solution replied with a deep bow before leaving the room. It took only a minute for her to return with Tuare in tow who, after giving both Ninya and Sebas a quick and radiant smile, came before Ainz and Henry and knelt at their feet without a hint of fear in her expression, as if sensing the conversation that was about to occur.
"Thank you for coming so swiftly, young Tuare. I have a few questions I'd like to ask you," Ainz spoke up kindly, inwardly pleased by her lack of fear and her act of deference. His voice then lowered dramatically as he continued "But know that if you speak untruthfully or if your answers are unsatisfactory then we are done here. Am I clear?"
"Yes, my lord," Tuare answered, almost shaking in fear at the terror in his voice. It was only the knowledge that both her sister and Sebas were nearby that kept her emotions in check.
"First…I want you to confirm Ninya's earlier words. Is your full name really Taureninya Veyron?"
"It is, my lord," she answered instantly.
"Very good…now then, onto my second question…" Ainz leant forward, his red eyes piercing Tuare's lowered head. "Tuareninya…is it your deepest wish to come to the Great Tomb of Nazarick and live among the inhuman there? If you are not, I am willing to give you great wealth and send you to a land far away so that you may live out your remaining days in peace. I would even allow you and your sister to keep in touch should that be what you both want…"
"It is, my lord!" Tuare's passionate declaration caught everyone on the hop as no one expected her to make up her mind that quickly. "If it means I can be close to both my sister and Lord Sebas, then I will gladly come with you and make the Great Tomb my new home!"
It took Ainz a few seconds to recompose himself, but when he did he let out another rich peal of laughter. "Very good…I am pleased with how much passion you have shown for your decision. My servants! I have reached my decision!"
"Command us, my lord, and we shall obey!" The rest of the room bar Tuare declared with lowered heads.
"In the name of Ainz Ooal Gown and the Great Tomb of Nazarick, Tuareninya is now under our protection!" Ainz declared, causing a warm smile to appear on the faces of both of the sisters and Sebas even as they continued to listen to their lord's words. "She will be welcome as our guest, and want for nothing while she is with us." Henry and Fengxian both nodded approvingly at their friend's choice.
"Thank you very much, my lord! I promise I shall repay your kindness and your faith in me by dedicating myself to your service!" Tuare professed. "And if you'll allow it, I would like to be placed to work alongside Lord Sebas."
"As will I doubly so for all you have done for both my sister and me!" Ninya added.
"I appreciate both of your words and expect nothing less from what you will both accomplish for me in the future," Ainz told them. "As for your request, Tuare…I will allow it. Henceforth, you shall work directly under Sebas as a provisional maid. At the same time, Sebas will step down from his role as leader of the Pleiades. The youngest of the Seven Sisters, Aureole Omega, will take his place with Yuri Alpha serving as deputy leader. Also…" And once again he now spoke to everyone in the room. "Please inform those currently in the Great Tomb that I have now personally staked the great name of Ainz Ooal Gown on Tuareninya's safety, and that she will work alongside them from this day forth."
"Yes, Lord Ainz…so shall it be!" Everyone declared, thoroughly satisfied with his choice. The girl's safety was now even more secure, and the leadership of the Pleiades was still in good hands with Aureole Omega's appointment. Though she was the youngest of the Pleiades, she had the distinction of being one of the few NPCs aside from the Guardians and the Supreme Beings to be at level 100 and was known to be a rational and calm presence among the rest of her sisters.
"Furthermore, all the sentries posted here will withdraw to Nazarick at once," Ainz continued. "Sebas, Solution…I want you to also prepare to withdraw when the time is right, and when you come back you will, of course, bring Tuare with you."
"Yes, my lord," the aforementioned three answered.
"My lords…if I may make a selfish request while Sebas, Solution and young Tuare remain here," Demiurge spoke up, causing everyone's attention to shift in his direction. "The Abelion Sheep in my care are omnivores, and their grain supply is starting to run low. So I would like to avail of this opportunity to procure a small amount of grain from here in the capital."
"I see…" Ainz considered before looking at Sebas. "Sebas, once you have purchased this grain…I want you to bring it back here and arrange for its delivery to Nazarick. We shall see that it is sent to Demiurge immediately."
"Of course, my lord. It will be no problem at all," Sebas answered promptly.
"Also…there is one other thing my lord…" Demiurge then leant over and whispered into his lord's ear. Hearing what Demiurge had to say, Ainz nodded, secretly pleased. This would be very useful for their future plans.
"You have my permission. Carry on," he told the demon as Sebas, Tuare and Solution left, with the latter two bidding very passionate goodbyes (in different ways) to Ninya and Henry respectively.
(What was that about, Suzi?) Henry asked privately once he'd finished his very…enthusiastic…farewell with Solution.
(I'll tell both yourself and Ki once we return to Nazarick) Ainz promised before conjuring a gate which he proceeded to pass through, followed by Henry, Ninya, Demiurge and Fengxian last of all.
The next morning, as requested by Ainz and Demiurge, Sebas and Solution left the mansion to go out and purchase the large amount of grain that the Seventh Floor Guardian had requested. After wishing them a fond farewell, Tuare went back inside to tend to the mansion and await their return.
~TNT~
"My friends…I am pleased to report that last night, my brave knight Climb, with the help of a few friends, was able to not only disrupt the operations at the Eight Fingers brothel but also aided in taking down one of their strongest warriors along with capturing the head of their slave trade division, Ampetif Cocco Doll!" Princess Renner gushed to the ladies of Blue Rose who had all come to visit her this morning.
"Not too shabby from the kid. I'm impressed!" Gagaran exclaimed proudly. For once, she and her fellows had eschewed their normal attires and were wearing more formal dresses whilst meeting with Renner. Even Tia and Tina had consented to wearing plain black robes and yellow scarves, even if they found it deeply uncomfortable. As for Evileye…either she possessed no formal wear or didn't wish to change, so she was still clad in her usual red robe and white mask.
"As a result, we may need to alter our plans," Renner continued smoothly as if this change wasn't displeasing to her at all. Though it hadn't all gone the way she'd intended it, she was smart enough to work around any unexpected deviations. "We'll launch simultaneous raids and take down all of Eight Fingers' strongholds at once." From its undetectable hiding place in Renner's shadow, the Shadow Demon was recording all of this to pass along to Demiurge later knowing it would be very handy for his plans.
"If we wait too long though, we'll be at a disadvantage," Lakyus pointed out.
"True…but I thought we were lacking the manpower to pull it off. Is that still the case?" Gagaran asked Renner who smiled sweetly back at her.
"I'm fairly certain the noblemen I'll be meeting later will be eager to lend a hand," she reassured them. Before she could elaborate, the door to her chambers opened, revealing her loyal bodyguard.
"Your Highness. They're here," he reported formally before standing aside. To the astonishment of the members of Blue Rose, both Marquis Raeven and Prince Zanac entered the room clad in their usual attire, their faces set in a rare show of respect upon spotting the Blue Rose adventurers sitting with the Princess.
"No way…" Gagaran breathed. "How did Her Majesty pull this off?" She wondered, as did the rest of her party.
"I must admit, I was surprised to receive a summons from you, your Highness. And intrigued," Raeven spoke up as he and the Second Prince strode towards them.
"It certainly piques my interest as well, so I decided to tag along well. I hope you don't mind," Zanac added with a sneer upon seeing the astonishment on his sister's face. "For once, it seems I am the one to catch her off guard! Let's see how well she deals with THAT."
"O-oh…brother," Renner stammered, her composure slipping momentarily. "I was not expecting him of all people to appear…how odd, yet curious…" "Not at all, I am always happy to speak with you," she added a moment or two later, her normal serene mask back in place as she turned to the members of Blue Rose. "We'll speak again later, ladies. Climb? Would you escort them out?"
"Of course, your Highness. Ladies?" Climb beckoned from the open door as the ladies of Blue Rose, after giving stiff yet respectful greetings to both Raeven and Zanac, left the room. Once the door had closed and the sound of their footsteps had vanished down the hallway, Renner addressed her brother and the noble once more.
"Thank you for coming so quickly," she began as she personally poured them both a cup of tea. "I called you both here so that I could ask for your advice.
"My advice? Really?" Raeven echoed with a frown as he took a sip from his tea. Zanac didn't chime in but watched his sister carefully as he too took a drink from his cup.
"Yes, I believe that no one else throughout all the court is better suited to discussing these matters than you, Marquis," Renner continued. Though her smile was sweet and angelic-looking and her tone full of respect and admiration, neither man was fooled for a moment. They knew she was after something from them. But even as Zanac stuck his tongue out in a show of disliking his sibling's tea, never having been a fan of how bitter it normally was, her warm expression didn't drop for an instant. "I could have something sweeter brewed for you, dear brother, if it isn't up to your tastes?"
"There's no need. I'm sure the last thing either of us wants is for our chatty palace maids to see us conversing like this and reporting it back to their families," he dismissed with a serious expression.
"Let's set aside the small talk and pleasantries and talk about what you really want," the Marquis added as he set his tea back down.
"Remember not to ask for too much, my 'dear' sister," Zanac reminded her with a falsely sweet smile of his own that, again, did not fool the other two for a moment as he added various sugar cubes to his tea to correct its abhorrent bitterness. "The Marquis may be one of the six Great Nobles and a member of the Nobility faction, but he has his own position to consider…as do I."
"Straight to the point then," Renner commented. "Good…I was tiring of the false pleasantries and sweetness myself…" "Since you've been working with the Royalty faction in secret, I'd like for you to mobilise the military." The directness of Renner's request caught both Zanac and Raeven off guard, enough for the former to stop dissolving the sugar cubes in his tea with the spoon he had been using. The last request they had expected from her was THAT. What could she want with the armed forces?
Renner couldn't help the smirk that came to her face on seeing them so off-balanced as she continued. "Whilst it may have been better for me to make this request to the three Great Nobles who are publicly aligned with the Royalty faction…sadly one of them, Marquis Blumrush, is a traitor and has been feeding information to the Empire.
"Just a moment, Princess Renner!" Raeven interrupted loudly. Though he pretended to look shocked at this revelation, Renner wasn't duped in the slightest. She had known about Blumrush's duplicity for the longest time and was aware Raeven did too even if he did a good job of hiding it. As for Zanac, he was gaping at his sister open-mouthed struggling to process just how she was aware of this
"You knew, right?" Renner countered sweetly before the Marquis could further admonish her. "Of course, the shameless opportunist would never be caught unaware on these matters, right? How else would you be able to manipulate the factions as you do to keep the Kingdom intact? That is why you restrict the information that flows his way so that he never learns anything important…so very masterfully done, by the way…"
"You live like a bird in a gilded cage up here…how do you know this?!" Zanac demanded.
"I get bits of information and fill in the blanks…the maids really do love their small talk." Though Renner's smile remained in place, there was no disguising the hidden glee behind her words.
"You truly are a monster," Raeven gasped with sweat now dripping from his brow, which caused the young girl to let out an undignified giggle. "Very well then…I suppose we can drop all pretence…if that's okay with you, my Prince?" Zanac merely grunted his assent. "But before we do…I would like to speak to the real Princess Renner…please…"
For a brief moment that seemed to last a few minutes, Renner remained unmoved, maintaining her dignified countenance and smile. And then, almost in the blink of an eye, it vanished, replaced by something far worse. The change was almost imperceptible at first, like the shifting of a delicate veil, but then…the porcelain mask of benevolence shattered revealing the true visage of the 'Golden Princess'. Her eyes, once pools of calculated innocence, transformed into windows to an unsettling abyss. The corners of her lips curled upwards with a maniacal glee, and a haunting intensity radiated from her gaze.
It was as if a switch had been flipped, and the meticulously crafted illusion of normalcy dissolved, exposing the depths of her true desires underneath. In that fleeting instant, the room seemed to contract with an aura of palpable unease as the true Princess Renner emerged from where she hid herself.
"Magnificent!" Raeven praised with quiet awe as he gazed upon the unsettling and twisted face of the Princess. "It's better than I thought…I remember seeing those same eyes when you were a child! You've just been putting on an act all this time, haven't you?" Zanac looked like he was going to be ill, both from seeing his sister's true self and having to listen to Raeven's almost sickening marvel at what he was seeing.
"I was…until I had been partially fulfilled that is…" Renner's voice was no longer melodic, but instead haunting and devoid of all emotion. Her eyes, wide and unsettling, were currently eerily vacant as though she were no longer in the moment with them but instead dwelling on a past memory.
"You mean…with that boy, Climb?" The mention of the Princess's bodyguard was all it took as Renner snapped back to the present. Her eyes and expression were full of lust, desire and pure obsession as she leant forward, her mouth almost salivating and her body trembling in pleasure as she began to speak.
"Yes indeed…" she murmured, a twisted smile on her face as she showed both her brother and the Marquis the true depths of her inner desires and obsession without restraint, unable to hide the shudder of pleasure that ripped through her at the images her words were conjuring in her mind. "I'd marry him if I could…and while I was at it, I'd love to chain him up and keep him all to myself! What joy I would feel!"
"Keep?" Raeven asked as both he and Zanac watched this disturbing sight with matching frowns. "I…see. It's an obsession, not love. And when you said 'partially' fulfilled…what did you mean?"
"I am in love with him!" Anything that had remained of Renner's composed image had long since vanished as she fully embraced the twisted monster that lay deep within. Her wide eyes, her obsessive expression, the manic and twisted tone her voice had taken on…she had been aching for so long to let it out, even for a moment, and not only could she, but it had been requested! The Marquis had actually wanted to see this! Oh, how utterly freeing this was for her! "I adore his eyes and the way they look at me! Not to mention the way he follows me around…like a loyal dog on a leash!"
"So sorry…I'm quite confused. What are you trying to-?" Zanac's interruption was cut off as Renner continued to give voice to the inner desires she had kept bottled up for so long.
"I don't expect you to understand, and I don't need you to either dear brother. As long as you know that I am fond of Climb and love him more than anything…that is enough for me…"
"But he is just a commoner! Marriage is impossible!" Raeven protested. But Zanac, sensing an opportunity to appeal to his sister's twisted side, the side that could give him an edge in his ongoing dispute with Barbro, suddenly made an unexpected offer.
"I'll make you a deal, sweet sister. Support my ascension to the throne and I'll make sure you get hitched to your…puppy." By the Gods, referring to that poor boy in such a manner even though he, Raeven and the rest of the knights and nobles did so on a daily basis, now that he was fully aware of his sister's plans for him, left such a bad taste in his mouth that he'd need all the sugary confections he could get his hands on to get rid of it. "How does that entice you?"
"I'm in! As long as I can have my loyal puppy all to myself, I'll gladly support you!" Her instant acceptance caught both Raeven and Zanac flat-footed. "And as for your other point, Marquis…when I said I had been 'partially fulfilled'?" If anything, Renner's expression had just turned even more manic, gleeful and deranged. "While it is true that having my puppy to myself is something I desire a great deal, there is one other thing I want…more than anything, more than even my beloved Climb…" Renner's mouth was now positively salivating, her eyes full of naked desire and hunger. "I long more than anything…to be able to cast aside this sweet and innocent mask that I wear and show my true self for all the world to see! I want everyone to see the monster they have created, and show them all that they were wrong to ignore me and cast me aside, and as they cry out for their beloved Princess I will look down at them from my throne of thorns and watch on with glee as the truth fills them with them despair!"
"I…erm…" Neither Raeven nor Zanac could quite believe what they were hearing, and a few seconds later they were sure they must have been imagining it as Renner's usual sweet and composed mask was back in place as though it had never left to begin with.
"The moment I saw you, brother, I wanted nothing more than to bring up the subject of a partnership between ourselves," she continued sweetly, as though that entire display of the monster within had never happened as she turned to face the Marquis. "On that note, there was another request I wished to make of you, Marquis Raeven."
"I-I'm listening," the noble ground out as he continued to do his best to regain his composure.
"Unless I am mistaken, you are a father to a young boy, correct?" Raeven's normally stern and calculating expression relaxed at her question. If there was any topic that could get him to lower his usual haughty demeanour, it was any that concerned his little boy.
"Yes, he has just recently turned five," he answered with a smile.
"I would like for him to be my betrothed." Both Raeven and Zanac spat out their tea in shock at her proposal. The Marquis in particular was incensed.
"No!" The Marquis yelled, all composure lost as he sprang to his feet and pointed a venomous finger at the calm girl. "I would rather die before I give my little boy to a woman like you!" As the initial anger of his outburst faded, he realised how undignified his behaviour must have appeared to the two royal children and took a moment to compose himself. "Please…forgive my outburst, your Highnesses," he managed as he sat back down. "But would you mind telling me your reasons for this, Princess?"
"I'm sure you don't need me to figure it out…isn't it obvious?" Renner's response clued both the Marquis and the Prince into just what she had in mind given her earlier declarations.
"You plan to marry my son, but actually have your children with Climb…" Raeven considered with a hand on his chin. "Then my son could have children with whichever woman he truly loved. And they'd be successors…does that sum it up?"
"You're really proposing this right in front of us? Are you sure that's wise?" Zanac asked with a small disbelieving scoff.
"Sure…better now than later don't you think?" Again, her sweet and blunt response was both off-putting and unnerving for her two guests, so the Marquis decided to change the topic…anything to get the talk away from the nauseous idea of his beloved boy being forced to marry this…monster.
"I hear you are about to go after Eight Fingers, correct?" He asked her bluntly.
"I would like to strike before they burrow too deeply into their nests, but I need soldiers to be able to pull it off." Zanac was just about to ask where she'd been attacking when, seemingly in anticipation of such a query, Renner brought forth a map showing all the buildings in the Capital, with an 'X' signifying the locations she planned to strike. "Seven locations. Unfortunately, each of them are in territories owned by different noblemen."
"If we could uncover evidence that ties them to Eight Fingers, I could use it to exert pressure and make the nobles compliant," Raeven strategized.
"Or we could find something during the attack…surely one of these eight locations has secrets," Zanac offered, his calculating mind going over the possibilities. He then looked up and gave his sister a knowing frown. "Also, sister…I have an important question to ask you. You are aware that our 'beloved' elder brother, the Crown Prince, is also taking money from Eight Fingers, right?"
"No! Surely not brother Barbro!" Renner gasped with such exaggeration and innocence which didn't fool either man. After all, their blunt and brash sibling's secrets were hardly a challenge to uncover, especially for someone as intelligent as Renner.
"This could be our opportunity to weaken his position and swing the odds of succession in my favour," Zanac leered conspiratorially. "We should surely include his drug-filled stronghold in our plan of attack." Renner quickly nodded her agreement. Taking out eight targets instead of seven would be ideal.
"As for soldiers…I will send my own guards and our faction's military," Raeven added. "But even with such well-equipped soldiers and adequate numbers, could we hold our own against the Adamantite members of Six Arms? If needed, I could call in a few favours from the Adventurer's guild…"
"I actually have good news on that front…one of their Adamantite warriors has already been disposed of in last night's surprise raid!" Both men were once more taken aback by this new information. "As for the rest, I have already thought of that and brought in someone else to help. They should be…" A knock suddenly sounded against the door to Renner's chambers. "Oh good, he's here! Please do come in!" As the door opened, Renner turned her gaze back to her brother and the Marquis with a knowing smile. "I believe this gentleman should be able to handle them…" As the new arrival walked in, both the Prince and noble were astonished at who they beheld. "I believe you gentlemen are acquainted with Sir Gazef Stronoff, are you not?"
~TNT~
"That trip took longer than I expected, but at least we know the grain is secure…I'm sure Lord Demiurge will make good use of it…" Whatever else Solution was saying trailed off for Sebas as he noticed something off about the front door to their mansion, and suddenly it became clear: The door wasn't locked and appeared to have been forced open, which thus meant…
"TUARE!" Sebas roared, bashing down the door with his foot before charging inside. "TUARE! Are you here?! Answer me!" When he heard no reply, Sebas grew increasingly concerned and turned to look at Solution who seemed just as shocked. "Check the downstairs room! I'll go upstairs!"
"As you wish, Lord Sebas." Though he was no longer her direct superior, given the direness of the situation Solution quickly acquiesced to his command. Without hesitating a moment, Sebas charged upstairs and searched through room after room, hoping to find their young charge but finding nothing…at least until he arrived at the meeting room they had all gathered in the previous day. Sitting on the table was an official-looking note capped by the seal of Eight Fingers.
"There were a large number of scratch marks around the mansion door's keyhole," Solution reported as she entered the room whilst Sebas was using his magnifying glasses to read the note. "Unless we have three-foot tall rodents, someone managed to pick the lock…"
"Eight Fingers have kidnapped Tuare," Sebas interrupted, crushing the note between his fingers as he turned to face an astonished Solution. "And I'm going to get her back. They have left instructions to meet them at a particular time and place."
"My lord Sebas…I understand your intent, but question whether it is the right course," Solution told him, her face etched with worry. Though she wasn't as fond of the girl as Sebas, she had gotten to know her well enough that her kidnapping caused her concern. "Before you go, let us at least inform Lord Ainz or Crown Prince Constantine and seek their advice. Lord Ainz has cloaked Tuare under the protection of his name after all."
"You are correct, thank you Solution," Sebas nodded approvingly. "Inform Lord Ainz and Crown Prince Constantine of the situation, and abide by their guidance on what we should do about it."
~TNT~
Ainz was currently reading through one of Sebas and Solution's reports when Solution contacted him regarding the situation. After getting all of the details, Ainz ordered her and Sebas to remain on site and await both his further orders and reinforcements. Once the communication with Solution was terminated, he first messaged Fengxian and then Henry to inform them of the situation and that they'd be initiating the plan Demiurge had shared with them after their return to Nazarick if, as he had correctly suspected, Eight Fingers were to retaliate against them
Though Fengxian was calm and understood his part to play in what was to come, Henry was enraged that these thugs not only kidnapped an innocent girl, one under THEIR protection, but that they had so openly declared their intentions to despoil and kill her. After giving him a moment to calm down, Ainz ordered the Crown Prince to make contact with Albedo and have her make the rest of the preparations for Demiurge's plan.
~TNT~
As it so happened, Albedo was currently plum naked within her chambers on the ninth floor of Nazarick and rolling around amid a massive pile of miniature dolls, plushies and body pillows that she had crafted in the exact image of her beloved. Giggling like a schoolgirl, she was just in the middle of pleasuring herself with one of the body pillows while shuddering at the thoughts going through her mind of how he'd next take her when she suddenly felt the faint tingle in her head of someone trying to contact her.
"Who dares interrupt me during my special time?" She growled inwardly as she pressed a finger to the side of her head to reply. (Yes, who is it?) she answered, not even trying to hide her annoyance.
(It's me, Albedo) The seriousness of her beloved Crown Prince's tone caused her to sit up instantly, any thoughts of pleasure and annoyance quickly fleeing from her mind. (An urgent situation has arisen that will require everyone's attention)
(I understand, my Crown Prince) Albedo answered formally without any of her usual gushing or admiration that she would usually use when conversing with her beloved (How may I be of service to Nazarick and the Supreme Ones?)
(Here's what I need from you…) As her beloved explained what had happened and what their response would be, a sadistic grin formed on the demon's lips.
It was time for the next stage of Nazarick's rise to world domination.
daniel: Another chapter done! And now time for Nazarick to bring the Eight Fingers to heel plus the Demonic Disturbance! More steps towards the conquest of the New World! So excited for that! And once more thanks for sticking around! SO excited for the Holy Kingdom movie plus the Aninews videos on it in due time! Be sure to check out his channel, he has been a great inspiration for the story!
I couldn't have summed it up much better! We are about to get into the meat of season 2 with the Demonic Disturbance and the raid on Eight Fingers, and I can't wait for you all to see what we have in store for those events!
This chapter is a good example of previous events and the presence of our OCs having an impact on the existing narrative. Tuare gets her reunion with Ninya which made me very happy to write, and everyone is on board with Tuare coming to Nazarick including Demiurge this time! I figured with Ninya's presence and the positive influence that Henry's 500 karma is having on everyone, the likes of Demiurge and Solution would have less/zero problems with Ainz's decision.
As I explained before, Yandere Renner is still obsessed with having Climb to herself and chaining him up (poor boy!), but for our story we wanted to give Renner another motivation that would fit in the narrative we have planned. As time goes on, she is getting more pent up and frustrated with the mask she has to wear and longs for the day when it will shatter and the whole world can see both the monster they have made her and what she is truly capable of. And when that day comes…watch out New World, for you will not be prepared!
Now, time to talk about the future of this story. I'm heading out to South Africa for 2 weeks for my brother's wedding and a holiday on 26th February, and by that time I hope to have finished the events of season 2 of this story. We have 3 more episodes to write for, so that's 3 chapters to come in that time, so as long as I don't get unwell again and work doesn't break me it should work out! That will then mean this story going on a small hiatus until I get back, but by then I'll have hopefully refreshed my batteries after a good time to get cracking with season 3's events which will be just as exciting!
All being well, expect chapter 22 to drop as usual within the 2-week timeframe as the Demonic Disturbance gets underway, and trust me our OCs will have their parts to play as well. So until then, thank you as always for all the love you have shown me and daniel for this humble story of ours, and we'll see you next time for the next part of the Nazarick Triumvirate!