Deep underground, in the very heart of Nazarick, Albedo sat alone at an ornate desk that seemed just a bit too large for her. Because it was Ainz's. Her lord had left for E-Rantel just a few hours before, when their meeting with Demiurge concluded, but the succubus already missed him. In times like these she would take her paperwork to his bedroom. The fact that he never slept in his bed and rarely used this desk over the one in his office did not deter her. It was one of the few comforts she could easily attain and nothing would make it feel less special.
As she flipped through her last few papers she noticed something for the treasury—a request to deposit the rarities of this new world which would require the permission of Pandora's Actor. She allowed herself a small sigh. Thanks to her gift, movement throughout the tomb was never an issue, but before a conversation with Pandora's Actor it would be wise to brace oneself.
Now, as prepared as she can be, Albedo retrieved the documents and teleported away. A brief feeling of weightlessness taking over to move her through the plains. The slightly chill air and blueish light of Ainz's bedroom replaced with warmth and an all-encompassing golden glow. Strangely, Pandora's Actor did not appear. Usually he would be jumping around any visitor the moment they appeared. As the Overseer, the idea that one of the guardians was slacking off irritated her, but she needed to find him before she could dish out any sort of punishment.
The clacking of her heels muffled by the long carpet that led to the room ahead. Nearing the doorway she could finally hear him. Pandora's emphatic voice rang out, but he was not speaking to her. He seemed to be in a conversation with someone else. On instinct Albedo stopped, silencing herself to better listen. It wasn't nosy since it was her job to know all the goings-on of Nazarick after all.
"Yes, YES! I'm listening! Appeared out of nowhere in the west. Coming out of the water like a—hm?"
It seems Pandora's senses finally caught up. Quickly he whipped around and scanned the room. If he didn't have any more to say then there wasn't any need to stay in the hall. Albedo stepped into the light with her usual serene smile.
"Good Evening, Pandora's Actor." She made a point to innocently glance around the room, bringing a dainty finger up to her mouth for good measure. "Ah, I thought I heard you speaking to someone but I don't see anyone here."
"OH! Lady Albedo! Always a pleasure for you to visit the treasury."
The doppelgänger immediately cleared the distance between them before continuing. Disrespecting all personal space, as was his standard.
"Yes, yesyesyes, I was talking. But not to someone. Something!"
He dramatically twirled around her as he pulled an item out of his coat. It was a large data crystal that he cradled like a child. Carefully holding it a little higher in front of Albedo's eyes so she could easily admire its beauty.
"I LOVE talking to ALL the treasures of the Supreme Ones! It is a great honor for me to care for them as I do and I must do all I can for them. I was telling this one a story. I believe doing such things will—"
"How fascinating," Albedo interrupted, knitting her thin eyebrows together slightly. "And this particular treasure is able to tell stories as well?"
Pandora's Actor backed up slightly. Ceasing all his dramatic movements, only rubbing the glasslike surface of the crystal slightly. He had no face but he seemed slightly offended.
"Every artifact in this treasury holds a piece of history, Lady Albedo. It is my duty to ensure they do not grow lonely or forgotten."
Albedo did not believe his explanation. Pandora's Actor was... eccentric, to say the least, but he was not insane. Just from the small snippet she'd overheard it did not sound like a simple one-sided conversation between a man and a rock. Doubts aside, she was still here on business. Albedo held the folder up between them. Gently pressing it down on his-still raised hands so he would hopefully put the crystal away and focus on her task.
"I see. As captivating as that is, I have more pressing matters that require your attention. Would you mind signing these for me?" She asked sweetly.
Pandora whimpered slightly, doing nothing to hide his disappointment at being cut off as he pocketed the crystal once more. Slowly, he took the file from her and wandered over to the large table and couch set in the middle of the room. Albedo followed and sat across from him, looking at the doppelgänger expectantly.
"Yes... I can sign these."
Forlorn but never one to slouch on work for Nazarick, Pandora promptly started flipping through the documents he'd been given. Using his other hand to reach to his breast pocket. Retrieving a florid pen and signing all the required papers. He quickly read through every page before he did so, but now he almost seemed a little nervous. His leg was bouncing, he drummed his fingers against the wood, fiddled with his hat. Pandora was always 'active' but this seemed excessive, even for him. As quickly as he'd sat down, he was up again. Neatly placing all the papers back into their folder and making his way around the table. He hummed happily when he closed the folder. His mood right back to 'normal', he bounced on his heels in front of Albedo, waving the file around in front of her.
"Alright! All signed, all done!"
After a few small twirls he handed her the file.
"Is there anything else I can help you with, Lady Albedo?"
As Albedo watched Pandora's Actor's theatrical display, a hint of skepticism crept into her mind. Though she maintained her serene smile outwardly, she was silently analyzing the subtle cues and peculiarities in his behavior. The way he held the data crystal, the tone of his voice, and the nervous tics he was displaying—all of it seemed out of character for the usually self-assured doppelgänger. Nevertheless, she kept her suspicions to herself, not wanting to cause a scene. As the doppelgänger handed back the signed papers, she accepted them politely. She would find whatever he thought he could hide from her shortly. In fact, Albedo already a good idea who he was truly talking to. The only one that would be foolish enough to go behind her back with important information. Merely thinking about that treacherous woman upset Albedo, but she was able to remain calm enough to end her time with Pandora's Actor.
"No Pandora's Actor, thank you for your help. The items outlined here will be brought in by the end of the week."
The doppelgänger finally gave her a bit of space at the confirmation. Leaping back ten paces and landing on his hands. His hat miraculously staying firm on his head despite being upside down. Slowly turning himself back around to look up at the angelic demon.
"A PLEASURE TO BE OF SERVICE!" He yelled, spinning to place himself back on his feet. Long fingers wrapping around his hat to offer a small bow. "Please let me know if you require anything else."
"Of course."
[Philian Apolesai]
After that curt reply she turned away. Fully leaving the treasury before teleporting. The moment she vanished a shrill cry echoed off the walls. Pandora's Actor bounded around the circular room as he cast a [Message] spell. Doing whatever he could to burn all the excess energy building inside him. He felt his spell connect and immediately started shouting. Saying what he wanted to transmit out loud wasn't a requirement for a [Message] but Pandora was far too riled up to be thinking rationally.
"DEMIURGE!" Realizing he was so panicked he'd forgotten to be polite, Pandora paused for just a moment to take a breath. "Lord Demiurge there is a very big problem and I desperately require your assistance!"
Adding such honorifics was not necessary; they were technically equals, but Pandora always, always, used them. It felt wrong not to at this point. The voice that replied in his head was far more irritated than he was expecting. It's true that Demiurge was continuously busy with work for Nazarick but that never stopped him from being patient and making time for his fellow denizens; but now he sounded harsh, not a trace of his usual tolerance in his voice.
'Pandora's Actor. Unfortunately, I am already dealing with a very big problem. Please understand but I cannot offer any assistance currently.'
After pushing that response through gritted teeth, Demiurge ended the [Message].
"NO!" Pandora's Actor screamed out. What had been a joyous occasion had just been dashed by Albedo sneaking up on him. She was certainly smart enough to deduce what was happening and their time was already ticking. He cast another [Message] to Demiurge, he was the only one close enough and wise enough to help now. His spell connected instantly but before the doppelgänger could say anything, Demiurge was already speaking. His mental voice somehow even sharper than it was previously.
'Pandora, I am sure your issue is of great importance but I. Am. Busy. Surely there is someone els—"
"LADY VESI HAS APPEARED AND LADY ALBEDO ALREADY KNOWS!" The silence that ensued was deafening. Of course two of Nazarick's brightest knew Albedo's fantasies. She was secretive when it came to her hatred of the other Supreme Beings, but she's allowed that mask to slip before. It's not that either of them agreed with her treacherous beliefs or were pleased by such thoughts. Attempting to kill a god is a horrible crime, one neither of them could ever forgive. There were two reasons they mutually decided to do nothing. It was clear their lord favored her, and, in all honesty, they did not think another Supreme Being would ever return. By all the information they had been given, all the Supreme Ones seemed to have moved on. There was always the unspoken hope they would return, but that's all it was. A hope with no founding. Nothing to stir the pot and upset their lord over. But now they could no longer sit by the sidelines and watch her plotting. One of their masters had returned and they needed to get to her before Albedo did. No matter how strong their gods were, the power of the team she had formed was undeniable. The mere presence of Rubedo made it imperative they brought their lady to safety before Albedo could find her.
'Tell me everything then.'
The sharpness in Demiurge's voice had not completely disappeared, but it had softened. The "very big problem" Demiurge was dealing with was likely related to Lady Vesi, since he was not surprised to hear of her reappearance. But if he was willing to listen at all, he did not have her safe as Pandora had hoped.
"Yes! Nigredo said Lady Vesi appeared on the west coast, right near your farm. She collected something from some humans and headed east, Nigredo believes she's looking for Nazarick. I tried to get some more information, talking out loud like a fool, before I realized Lady Albedo was in the treasury and I have NO IDEA how much she overheard! I was CARELESS, so careless..."
A sigh of annoyance rang through his head but that was not enough to make the doppelgänger take even the slightest pause in his rambling.
[Philian Apolesai]
Pulcinella jumped slightly at the loud groan of annoyance that came from Demiurge. Despite trying to tell him that he was working on something very important, Pandora's Actor continued interrupting his master with messages as he tried to form a plan, souring his mood even further. Thankfully he's restrained himself somewhat. The small remnants of wood scattered across the ground were all that was left of a large table his master had smashed when he'd first heard Pulcinella's report. Now, Demiurge paced in circles around the cabin, his tail lashing wildly behind him as he muttered to himself. Suddenly, he stopped, all his movements ceasing. Whatever he was listening to seemed to infuriate him even further. Eventually, he snapped.
"Pandora!" He sighed sharply. Working to keep himself under control as he brought his hand to grab his temples. 'Yes, you were careless. There is nothing to be done for that now. All you need to tell me where our lady is headed. Everything else can wait.'
Demiurge moved his hand to his chin and closed his eyes. Nodding slowly to whatever information the voice in his head was giving him. Muttering a few key words to himself.
"Six humans," "Moving east," "No armor"
The message was nearing its end now.
'I understand, thank you Pandora's Actor. Please delay her as long as you can, I'll begin the search now.'
Demiurge opened his eyes to slits as he dropped his hand, pushed up his glasses, and adjusted his clothes, ensuring his look was perfect once more before he looked to the darkest corner of the cabin.
"Shadow demons."
The blackness began to pulse and shift. Oozing away from the walls to pool around Demiurge's feet.
"You found our lady before and you gave her the respect she deserved..."
He took a pause to cast a deadly glare in Pulcinella's direction. The short clown sunk further into the wall under the weight of his gaze. Fortunately, he did not linger long and brought his attention back to the demons beneath him.
"Go, find her. Inform me the moment you do and keep her safe until I arrive."
The void trilled shortly in response before the strange mass zoomed past Demiurge, underneath the door, and to the world beyond. The cabin was mute once more. Only the faint sound of creaking leather broke the silence, coming from Demiurge's gloves as he repeatedly clenched and unfurled his fists as he stood in the center of the room. He let out one more long sigh before bringing his attention to the rest of his servants hunkered down in the corner. They were not afraid of the demon, no; they were weighed down by their failure. Pandora's Actor had just confirmed that the woman on the beach was indeed their Lady Vesi and they had done nothing for her. Now someone that their lord did not feel the need to tell them the identity of was hunting her. There was no question, they had found their lady and not fulfilled their one duty of protecting her. Now she could be in danger. Pulcinella felt this failure greater than every other servant there. He was the first to receive the information but he hesitated. Nothing was done because of his inaction and now all of Nazarick risked losing their dear lady before she had even returned.
Pulcinella crumpled further as Demiurge approached. Ready and willing to take any punishment he would have to face for this carelessness.
"Pulcinella, do not think this error will go unanswered for. I must search for our lady and you will watch the farm until I return. Greed, Avarice."
The two winged generals sat upright upon being called.
"The shadow demons will move quickly but you will assist. Scour the coasts and the forest."
The pair only grunted in response as they rose. Moving past their master to begin their search. Demiurge delayed for only a moment to throw one more glare down to the clown at his feet.
"The rest of you, get back to work."
[Philian Apolesai]
"Tch, not a moment of peace in this place," Vesi muttered, shading her eyes as she glared into the rising sun—or more accurately, at the small orb hovering alongside it. A tangible manifestation of the new diviner's interest in her. This spell was leagues beyond the pathetic attempt that was so easily washed away before. It was of such a higher quality, so intricately woven, that Vesi felt certain she couldn't dispel it if she tried.
Where the previous diviner's attempt had been like a frail spider's web, easily brushed aside, this was a fortress of magic. She could almost sense the calculated caution of her watcher, the deliberate wariness in their distance. The thought sent a thrill through her; finally, someone worth her attention. Her lips curled into a half-smile as she entertained the idea of putting on another show, a display of power to dazzle and intimidate. But she dismissed it just as quickly. Her mana was precious and, according to the map, there were settlements nearby marked with ominous X's. Perhaps they were warnings of danger, or maybe the people of the Theocracy simply disliked whatever lived there. Either way, exhausting herself now was not an option.
Vesi turned her gaze back to the orb. She could almost feel the diviner's gaze meeting hers through the distance. If they sent fighters after her, she would dispatch of them as she had the others from the Theocracy. A heavy sigh passed her lips. Being watched like this was far from enjoyable, they were gathering intel on her while Vesi was still mostly in the dark. It was infuriating but for now there was nothing to be done about it. Vesi shook her head as she pushed through the underbrush. She would do her best to prepare, but she couldn't form a more in-depth plan beyond that. Before she could sigh again she felt something coming closer. A somewhat familiar presence that was moving toward her at an alarming rate. Vesi wrapped her fingers around the hilt of her dagger. Her grip tightened as the presence drew nearer. The shadows around her seemed to deepen. The dallops of sunlight swallowed by inky tendrils, coalescing into a form that skirted around the edge of her vision. The creature materialized before her, a living shadow peered up at her with golden eyes. It shifted its body around, tilting its 'head' and emitting its strange, melodic noise that echoed through the trees.
Vesi's tension eased immediately. She relaxed her stance and sheathed her blade as she knelt down, dipping her hand into the void at her feet. Just as before, it trilled happily at her touch, cloaking her arm in darkness. Once again, the peculiar creature brought a sense of safety with it. She withdrew slightly just to admire the shadow.
"I wasn't expecting you to follow me all the way here. Lovely to see you, little one."
The blackness chirped and trilled at her words, bouncing around the shade of the trees. Then the creature let out a new sound, a particularly loud 'woo'. At the call, Vesi can feel more creatures approaching. A pool of living shadows gathering at her feet, surrounding her with a chorus of gentle coos. Being completely encircled by this void was surprisingly soothing. Their playful and happy demeanor a stark contrast to the cold, calculating eyes she could still feel from the diviner above.
"Ah, I had no idea there were so many of you!" Vesi rubbed her hand along the ground to 'pet' the creatures beneath her. Each of them gently wrapping their tendrils around her wrist as she passed over them. Eventually, she had to stand which was deeply upsetting to the shadows. Erupting in a series of anxious trills when she started to move away. Vesi stopped immediately and turned around. Kneeling back down to the ground to be closer to the crying shadows.
"Would you all like to come with me?" Their whines promptly returned to their joyful trills as they bounced around the shade.
She continued through the forest and the shadows followed, keeping her surrounded by their comforting darkness. They almost seemed to act like a shield. Covering her on all sides, jumping ahead to see what was in front of her before returning to her side. All the while singing their song of chirps and trills.
Eventually, the trees thinned and Vesi found herself at the edge of a vast lake. Its still surface perfectly reflecting the early morning sky. She approached the lakeshore and her reflection stared back. Distorted by the soft ripples that spread from where one of the shadows was playing at the water's edge.
Then the world fell silent. There was no birdsong, no animals were here to drink, the shadows had stilled. Even the breeze had stopped. Leaving the air feeling heavy. Vesi's eyes narrowed, scanning the horizon. A shiver ran down her spine and an unfamiliar energy prickled her skin. Something powerful was approaching.
[Philian Apolesai]
Albedo moved swiftly through the grand halls of the ninth floor. Her steps muffled by the thick red carpeting, yet she moved with a great speed. Her entire night had been consumed by tedious paperwork, an unavoidable duty as Overseer. Not that her work was ever a drain. Everything done in service to her love was worth every effort. Now that her work was finished, a new pressing matter to attend to. Such was life in the Great Tomb, work was never truly finished for her.
With a practiced ease, honed by hundreds of walks before, she made her way to Ainz's office. Standing in front of his door always filled her with joy. She knew he was not there but that did not matter. It was still his office. His sanctuary, in a way. She was ready to deliver her reports and opened the door, only to be met with an unexpected sight. Pandora's Actor was inside, leaning on the massive desk at the end of the room. The moment he heard the door creak he was running towards her, shouting random lines in German as he approached.
"Lady Albedo!" he shouted, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. He bounced around, practically vibrating with excitement, while Albedo stood in the doorway, a trace amount of disgust on her face. "I just realized something VERY important about those documents you gave me! Please, sit, sit."
Pandora's Actor withdrew slightly, clearing a path to the pair of couches in the center of the room. Albedo's patience was already thin and this sudden interest from him only reinforced her need to see her sister. She could feel her irritation rising as she looked at his enthusiastic face yet she was able to remain composed. Waltzing right past the sofas to place her reports on Ainz's desk.
"Apologies, Pandora's Actor," she said as she organized the papers into a neat pile. "I do have a meeting scheduled after this, but I would be happy to discuss this more formally at another time."
Before she could make her way out of the room Pandora had leaped from the couch to stand in her way once more.
"Lady Albedo," he implored, holding his hands up in front of his chest as if to beg her to stay. "Please understand, it will only take a moment! There are only a few items I took issue with." He waved his arms around emphatically between them as he spoke.
Albedo struggled to remain calm as she watched the display. He had chased her away so quickly before and now he was desperately trying to keep her in one place. She grazed her fingers over the ring on her left hand. She could not allow herself to be distracted like this now, so she activated it. Expecting to feel the chill of the fifth floor on her skin, she instead felt two large hands on her shoulders. She opened her eyes to see she had indeed made it to the fifth floor, and Pandora's Actor had grabbed on to her to follow. He seemed to immediately realize his sin and released her, but it was too late. That action finally snapping the wiry thread that was keeping her cordial. She had been in a rush, but she would not let this fool manhandle her simply because things were not going his way. If he were anyone else she would have already struck him dead. However, he was not anyone; he was still the creation of Lord Ainz, his son in her eyes.
And she was still the Overseer. It was her duty to handle all the guardians calmly. So he would live; he wouldn't be harmed physically at all, but that did not mean he would escape her unscathed. What started as a somewhat calm reprimand quickly devolved into screaming at the doppelgänger for his audacity to touch what he knew was not his. Through it all Pandora's Actor kept his head low, muttering small pleas of forgiveness between her breaths, and anxiously wringing his hands. Yet something about him—the body language, the subtle peaking in his voice she could hear in his apologies—something made him seem quite satisfied with himself. The realization that perhaps this was just a continuation in his ploy to slow her down angered her more, but staying here and yelling at him about it would not recover the time she'd lost. So Albedo stopped. Mid-sentence. Just suddenly fell silent which caused Pandora to cease his murmurs and look up at her.
Her usual sweet smile was back, not a hint of the rage remaining. Before he could say anything meaningful, Albedo spoke. Her voice heavenly once more.
"As I stated previously, I have a meeting to attend. We shall have to speak at a later date, Pandora's Actor. "
She turned and began making her way to the Prison, leaving Pandora confused and slightly frightened. For a moment he considered chasing her further but quickly decided against it. She'd restrained herself the first time, but if he did anything like that again she would surely kill him. For now, he simply had to trust Nigredo would know what to do.
[Philian Apolesai]
The Frozen Prison lay buried deep within the fifth floor of Nazarick, a fortress of ice nestled in an arctic hellscape. True to its name, the very air of the place was violently frigid, digging into any exposed flesh like a thousand gelid needles. A thin layer of blue ice clung to every surface, catching the dim torchlight to create shadows that danced along the walls. This relentless chill was suffused into the very stones that stole the warmth of all who dared tread across them.
Echoes of distant screams swept through the halls. A never-ending symphony of despair. Voices came from all corners of the prison; it sounded as if their song of agony was one with the structure. The bottomless cries served as a reminder of the suffering one would earn for insulting their lord. These endless screams would be enough to drive one mad, but they were nothing more than background noise for her. Should a fool cross her master, the infinite agony found here was the least of what they deserved.
Here, Nigredo resided. She was no longer its prisoner but still its warden. Her every breath hung in the air, small clouds of vapor that vanished into the unforgiving cold. Her home was one of perpetual winter, a place where the hope of fools was crushed beneath the weight of the ice. In this forsaken bastille she watched over the world, as was her duty handed down directly from their lone master.
However, that no longer seemed to be the case.
Nigredo watched their long-lost lady as she traversed the plains of the west. A hope she had long buried began to thaw within her heart. This should be a momentous day, yet fear gnawed at her. The idea that her master might soon be reunited with his old friend filled her with joy, but her last conversation prevented her from fully embracing the feeling. She had informed Pandora's Actor as he had instructed her to; but before he could tell her what to do next, he was interrupted and he no longer responded to her calls. It wasn't just Pandora not responding, she could no longer message anyone in the Tomb. Her magic was being blocked which could only be done by a select few people.
She did not have to ponder it long as the familiar clacking of dainty heels began sounding down the hall. Quickly Nigredo moved to cover her mirror. Her bare feet scampering across the cold floor to retrieve its cloth. Then running back to the other side of the room to bury the it at the bottom of her storage chest. With her [Mirror of Remote Viewing] successfully stowed away, she went to the center of her room to sit at the small table. Outside her door she could hear that click, clack of the heels drawing closer. That same predictable, consistent, gait she knew so well.
"Welcome, Mistress Albedo."
The guard outside greeted her and now the heavy metal locks were quickly being undone. They had not even bothered to ask if the owner of the room wanted to invite this visitor in. Of course they wouldn't. The Overseer could go wherever she pleased.
Nigredo kept her eyes trained on the wood grain of the table as the door opened. For a moment, the light of the hall poured in. Bathing the small room in a blue glow. The click, clack louder now. Reverberating off the walls of her cell.
The steps paused for a moment, right beside the table. She was waiting for Nigredo to greet her. As all servants should. However, Nigredo had already decided her on her plan for this conversation. She would speak unless she had to in hopes of upsetting Albedo, slowing her down and revealing as little as she reasonably could. Pandora's Actor may not have been successful in delivering the message but surely Demiurge would notice their Lady's presence. She'd emerged right near his farm after all. That's what Nigredo hoped anyway. Someone, anyone other than Albedo, needed to bring their lady home and Nigredo would do all in her finite power to make that possible.
A small "Hmph" came from her right, but Nigredo continued ignoring her. She did not respond when Albedo placed her gloved hands on the table, not when she sighed louder, and not when she finally relented and pulled out her own chair to sit down. Through it all Nigredo only stared at the table. Eventually, Albedo spoke up.
"Nigredo.."
She'd only said her name but the spite and anger came through very clearly in each syllable. Nigredo finally relented and looked at her sister. To most, Albedo would seem the same as always. Her clothes perfect, her hair shining and beautiful, her face still holding that gentle smile but the rage in her eyes proved too difficult for her to hide. Or perhaps, she simply did not feel the need to hide such things when she was alone.
"I believe a Supreme Being has returned. Is that true?"
No frills. No flowery language to dance around which means she likely already knew the truth. Lying now would only prove she couldn't be trusted so Nigredo nodded her head. Another loud sigh came from her. Albedo closed her eyes and for a split second her flawless face twisted with anger. Then, just as quickly as the emotion showed itself, it was hidden away and that sweet smile returned.
"And why was I not informed of such a glorious miracle?"
Nigredo may not have known the full extent of her sister's treacherous plans, but she was well aware of the distaste she held for the other Supreme Brings. Telling her first out of everyone in the Tomb would be foolish. Obviously, that was not an answer she could give so she settled on a half truth.
"I only found out moments ago myself. I wanted to watch for a bit longer, to ensure what I was seeing was true. I did not wish to waste your time with mere suspicions."
Nigredo balled the hem of her dress up in her fists. Speaking on its own was already a daunting task, having to elude her sister in any way was almost impossible. The glare Albedo shot across the table was proof she did not believe it. Thankfully, she did not pursue further. Instead she leaned back in her chair slightly. Seeming to wonder if she should even bother asking her next question.
"I believe your suspicions are correct." She started slowly, fixing her face once more. "Tell me where you saw them so that I might bring them home."
"She was on the western coast, near Demiurge's farm." Nigredo responded quickly. Taking any pause would only look suspicious but she hoped mentioning their lady's proximity to the farms would demotivate her slightly. It hadn't. Panic flashed across her expression before she leaned closer.
"Well? I know that's not all you saw. What else is there?"
She seemed more determined to find their lady now. Nigredo snapped her teeth quietly in frustration but she continued.
"I believe it was Lady Vesi that emerged from the ocean. She wasn't wearing her usual armor, and she seemed to be wandering south."
That was all mostly true. She had seen their lady on the coast and she was indeed wandering, just not south. Though, that likely wasn't enough to satisfy Albedo.
"I was preparing to watch her more. Perhaps Demiurge could create a [Gate] to the farms. That would put you quite close and I can guide you to her from here."
Not only would this force Albedo to inform someone else about the potential return of their lady, it motivated her to release the magical barrier she'd placed around the prison. Quite a genius move in Nigredo's opinion but the only response Albedo gave was a frown. It seems she would not be lead around so easily.
"That would be an excellent idea, sister. Though I would want to prepare a welcome party first. So, watch our lady and inform me on her every movement, that's an order." She said with an air of finality.
Being given an order, Nigredo instinctively got up to fulfill it. Ready to report the (slightly inaccurate) position of their lady just as asked until a thought came to mind.
"Pardon my asking, but would Rubedo be in this 'welcome party'?"
Albedo smiled sweetly. "Of course, don't you think our baby sister would be honored to see a Supreme Being's return?"
She said it as if that girl was not a walking disaster. Bringing her out of the tomb, especially under these circumstances, could only mean one thing. Before Nigredo could voice any of her concerns, Albedo held up a finger.
"Rubedo is loyal. She would never disobey an order, and she does not deserve to be locked away."
Nigredo did not miss the implication. Her sister would likely never forgive her for her 'betrayal', no matter what their loving master said.
Seeming satisfied, Albedo rose from her seat.
"I expect a detailed report on her position within the hour."
"Of course." was all she could say as Albedo walked away. The click, clack of her heels fading away with the screams below.
[Philian Apolesai]
The rising sun cast a radiant glow over the ocean, bathing the world in its radiance. The forest was coming alive with the sun's arrival. Its rays pushing through the leaves and warming the earth. From above, it seemed all was at peace. However, that was far from the truth.
Hordes of summoned demons swept through the woods, tearing through every inch with their master standing in the heart of their chaos. The wrinkled map in his hands covered in small Xs. The entire coastline and half the forest was marked off. Demiurge frowned at the paper; the results made no sense to him. Almost the entire forest had been searched but their lady was no where to be seen, and he could no longer sense her. Initially he thought he could no longer feel her because she hid herself, but now it seemed like she had gone much further than he initially thought possible.
Greed pushed his way through the branches and knelt down, likely ready to inform him that they hadn't found their lady in the south either. Without acknowledging the general, he tried to cast another [Message]. He'd told Pandora's Actor to slow Albedo down in hopes of getting in contact with her sister, but he seemed to be blocked. He hoped they were able to manage her, but he could not rely on them. Demiurge's tail flicked with agitation, the only sign of his emotion that he would show freely.
"Well?" He finally acknowledged the general at his feet.
"We searched the southern forest and the mountain range, my lord. But we still have not found her."
Demiurge sighed as he hurriedly marked more Xs onto the map. There weren't many more places she could be. He tapped his fingers along the northern edge of the forest. Initially, he had written off the idea of her getting so far on foot, but it was the only option left. Pushing up his glasses, he prepared to give the order when a strange chill ran down his spine. A dark shadow slithered silently across the forest floor, dancing through the shade until it reached his feet. It trilled softly to indicate its arrival and capture its master's attention. Demiurge quietly motioned for it to come forward.
The shadow slipped into his own. Demiurge brought his hand to his mouth as he listened intently to the whispered words the shadow slipped into his mind. He remained silent while it spoke. His expression was inscrutable, but his eyes opened steadily wider as it continued.
Without a word, Demiurge turned on his heel and began to stride away from their makeshift campsite. His sudden departure left his generals momentarily bewildered, exchanging glances as they tried to interpret their leader's abrupt change in behavior. Yet they knew better than to question his actions. Instead they gathered themselves together and quickly followed behind.
[Philian Apolesai]
The feeling of weightlessness enveloped her once more. The frozen air of the fifth floor melted away into the fast and hot winds of the eighth, leaving Albedo in the middle of the deserted wasteland. The intense heat from the artificial sun beat down relentlessly, creating shimmering mirages in the distance that made the dried and cracked earth seem to move like churning waves. She could feel the eyes of countless powerful beings on her, lurking just out of sight, hidden within the rocky outcrops and sand dunes. Shadows shifted subtly in her peripheral vision. Most would not be able to see it, but Albedo was surrounded by the beasts of the eighth floor, all watching over her closely. She did not require guidance, and their lord had allowed her to travel anywhere, their concern was her safety while she traversed this violent place.
Just a short distance away was her current goal: The Cherry Blossom Sanctuary. A beautiful oasis hidden away in these barren wastes. The outside was a meticulously maintained sand garden, with carefully raked symbols of protection drawn into the ground. A small stone path led through a torii gate, marking the boundary between the chaos of the wasteland and the temple's serene order. As Albedo stepped through the gate a sudden stillness surrounded her. The light now soft against her skin as it filtered through the gate, casting intricate shadows on the sands while the scent of cherries filled the air. Carried by a gentle breeze that encircled the building.
Pushing through the massive double doors, the whole world seemed to be left behind. No longer could she hear the whistle of the winds or smell the trees. A completely empty silence is all that greeted her.
Golden light flowed into the hall from the open doors, illuminating the outlines of servants bowing to her from the other side. Albedo moved through the wooden beams and rice paper halls she'd memorized from the map. There were quite a few notable members of Nazarick here, people she'd never gotten the opportunity to meet, but such pleasantries would have to wait. There was only one person here that she wanted to see.
The thin paper walls and soft bamboo floors gave way to hardened stone. The world seemed to darken and the hallways narrowed. At the end, she was met with a thick wooden door covered with locks. At Lord Ainz's request, the majority of them were already undone, but the door was to remain shut at all times. Only when the room's sole inhabitant was to be released could it be opened. Albedo looked around for a moment; she had seen many servants on the upper floor, but it seemed none had followed her down. Sighing, she moved to open the door herself.
The old wood groaned with its age, stuck in place from years of disuse. With a harder pull she was able to dislodge it, creating a trail of dirt and dust as she scrapped it along the cobbles. Despite the uninviting passage leading to it, the door the room concealed was quite cute. Pink carpeted floors and a lime green wallpaper with a floral pattern covering it. All the furniture was plush and overflowing bookshelves lined the walls. Albedo's usual smile shifted into something more genuine as she made her way inside.
"Rubedo?" She called out. A head poked up over the couch. A small girl with long black hair stared back at her. "Good morning, my sister!"
Albedo quickly made her way around the couch to wrap her into a hug. The girl reciprocated but she did not seem nearly as interested in these greetings.
"Is there an attack?" she asked once Albedo released her. Her face was completely neutral as she stared up at her big sister. It's not that Rubedo did not have emotions; she was truly happy for the visit. Being a golem just meant such things were not broadcast as clearly as it might be with other races. Similar to Shizu but much cuter, in Albedo's opinion, of course.
"No, but there is still work to do." Albedo started, keeping her voice sweet as she stroked the girl's hair. "I need you to come with me outside Nazarick. For a mission from Lord Ainz. Are you ready?"
She knew her sister would do anything if she believed it was what their lord wanted. Technically, it was the truth. Ainz had given her permission to create this team and use it to the best of her ability. So, in Albedo's mind, no lie had been told. In response, Rubedo only nodded curtly and pushed herself away from her sister. Making her way to the corner and pressing one of the flowers printed on the wall. It spun around at her touch, revealing a large array of weapons that all seemed too big for such a small girl to wield. Undeterred, she reached for the one nearest to her—a massive polearm with a shining black and pink swirled haft. She held it high, quickly scanning it for any possible blemish that might harm her ability to serve Ainz Ooal Gown. Satisfied, Rubedo turned to her sister who was happily smiling down at her.
"I am ready."
"Excellent! Let's not dawdle then~" Albedo held out her hand which Rubedo took without hesitation. The weightless feeling returned, swallowing the pair in blackness.
They reappeared on the steps that led out of Nazarick which was as far as the ring could teleport someone. Down in the courtyard Albedo could already see her soldiers. Fifteen hulking beasts bowed down when she arrived. Still holding Rubedo's hand, the pair descended the stairs. When they reached the bottom Albedo touched her free hand to her temple. Casting a [Message] to her other sister. She knew she likely couldn't trust Nigredo's words, but keeping her included like this would at least keep her busy.
'Nigredo.' She could feel the spell connecting in her mind as she thought her sister's name.
'Albedo. Is your "welcome party" together now?'
'Yes and I'm summoning a [Gate] as we speak. So, tell me where our dear lady is.'
"WAIT!" An irritatingly familiar shrill voice called out behind her. Albedo let out a small sigh and released her sister's hand as she turned around. As expected, the doppelgänger was running down the stairs after her, his 'coat' fluttering behind him.
"Just a moment, dear sister." Spoken to both Rubedo and Nigredo in her mind.
Pandora's Actor came to a halt in front of her. Pretending to be slightly out of breath but maintaining his usual over-the-top demeanor. He adjusted his hat and struck a pose before dramatically bowing.
"Lady Albedo! I simply couldn't let you embark on this vital mission without offering my assistance," he announced grandly. His voice was dripping with sincerity but Albedo had long since realized his ploy. She delicately crossed her arms, her expression still gentle but unyielding.
"Your enthusiasm is noted, Pandora's Actor, but unnecessary. I already have everything I need." She subtly nodded to the beings behind them. They were not many but it was truly a world-ending force standing before them. There was not much he could do to make them more deadly than they already were, but Pandora was ready to try anything.
"YES, yes, I see. However, that armor.." He leaned around her to glance at the 15 knights behind. They were all wearing the armor they had been summoned with. Not bad armor to be sure, it's unlikely anything in this would would be able to even mark it. However it was the first excuse he could think of, so he latched onto it. "That armor could surely be better, no? There's no need to go hunting with anything less than the best. After all, our Lord Ainz expects nothing less than excellence."
Albedo suppressed an eye roll as Pandora crept closer to her after every word. Working to maintain her composure, she feigned a look of concern.
"Ah, I think you're right. Would you be so kind and fetch some higher quality armor for them?"
Pandora's Actor clicked his boots together and bowed theatrically.
"Of course, my dear Overseer. I shall acquire the finest armors, only the best for our noble cause."
She watched as he turned to leave. Taking his time with every step. Skipping along the rocks of the path, looking up to the sky, twirling his way down the path. His urgency from earlier gone and now he was doing nothing to hide that he wanted to postpone her departure. Her patience was wearing thin, but she kept her expression neutral.
"SEE YOU SOON!" He shouted once he'd finally reached the top of the stairs. Albedo only offered a small wave in return.
Once he finally departed, Albedo felt a small sense of relief. She turned back to her sister, the mission at the front of her mind once more.
"Your armor is perfectly fine, Rubedo, but make sure you stay alert."
"I will." Rubedo replied simply. She hadn't been worried about her armor, but the loving attention her sister gave her was always appreciated.
Albedo's attention shifted back to Nigredo, their mental connection still active.
'Nigredo, we're moving out now. Keep me updated on her position'
'Of course, Albedo. I'll keep you well informed.'
Ending the [Message], Albedo took a deep breath. She had work to do and she would not allow Pandora's Actor or anyone else to stand in her way now.
[Philian Apolesai]
Vesi looked up at the sky from below the water's surface, watching as the small waves distorted the sun into a shimmering, kaleidoscopic dance above her. She had hidden her aura and slipped into the lake, seeking refuge from the approaching presences she could feel drawing closer. To her surprise, a few of her shadowy companions had followed her into the water, trailing behind as she made her way to a small cave beneath the lake's surface. Hidden beneath the surface, her mind focused on preparing for a surprise attack. With her aura masked, she hoped to catch her pursuers off guard. Even if they knew her general area, she could still have the element of surprise if she played her cards right.
The moment she rested on the rocks they pooled beneath her. Covering her with their darkness as best as they could.
"Wanting to keep me safe, huh?" she murmured, a small joke to ease her mind. The shadows seemed pleased with the idea, letting out a soft trill in unison before settling into silence. They spread out to completely cover the cave's walls, creating an inky barrier between her and the outside world.
The presence was even closer now. She could feel one being leading the charge, with many more following not far behind. Despite her efforts to hide, they had continued coming her way, likely tracking her through the diviner's magic from earlier. Rather than remain passive, Vesi decided to turn the situation to her advantage. Vesi sighed, reaching into her inventory. She cycled through the various weapons she had 'acquired' over the years, hoping one of them might spark a plan. If she was going to face them, she wanted to be well-prepared. Her favorite kopesh materialized in her hand, and she gripped it tightly, ready to strike.
Then, they stopped. The large group that had been trailing behind stood still now, around the tree line before the clearing. They were watching.
Only one continued, and Vesi could feel them moving above her. They knew she was here; it was only a matter of time before they found her. Hiding was frustrating for her—she had never run from a battle before—but this felt different. She wasn't running; she was preparing. She was simply waiting for the right moment. Vesi slipped back out of the cave, hugging the lake's border. Slowly following the one above the water.
The figure above completed their circuit of the clearing. For a moment, they seemed ready to move on before she heard talking. It was only one voice, the sound muffled as it reached her ears through the water. Someone had informed this seeker of her location. Hiding was pointless; confrontation was inevitable.
The being neared the lake's edge, and Vesi drew closer, ready to drag them down when one of the shadows left her side. She could hear it trilling faintly through the water as it moved toward whatever was above. She knew they were friendly creatures, but it stung slightly for one to abandon her during such a stressful moment.
She can feel them come nearer to the lake, expecting them to go towards the shadow but instead, a gloved hand reaches into the water.
Taking her chance, Vesi lunged forward, grabbing the arm and pulling with all her might. They were much sturdier than she anticipated, and instead of pulling them down, she propelled herself up onto them. Caught off guard but undeterred, she wrapped her fingers around her watcher's throat.
"My lady?!"
[Philian Apolesai]