"My lady?!"

The words hung in the air. Vesi hesitated for a moment, her fingers tightening ever so slightly around the man's neck. Water dripped steadily from her body, soaking the ground beneath them. His suit, once perfectly pressed and pristine, now clung to his frame, ruined by the cascade of water she'd brought when she tackled him. Vesi brought her face closer, her sharp eyes scrutinizing his every feature. Meeting the gaze of her would-be victim, she saw more than surprise—she saw recognition, and she felt similar within herself.

With a slow and deliberate movement she lifted him higher. His breathing hitched, but he did not resist. Being in this position was quite uncomfortable for one so used to being in power, but he was far too busy feeling relief to worry about such things. Relief that she had paused, that her intent to kill had softened, even if it was only for a moment.

Her face softened slightly, her initial look of bloodlust now replaced by a mix of suspicion and confusion, yet her grasp remained firm.

"My lady?" she echoed his words with an edge of uncertainty in her voice.

Demiurge forced a small smile as he nodded. The chance to explain himself had finally arisen and he had no intention on wasting it. However first... He raised his arm to gently tap on the hand still holding him down. She was not holding him so tightly he could not speak, but it was clear she did not trust him even if she recognized him. This was his first step in establishing a small amount of goodwill between them.

Just as planned, she released him and backed up some, even going so far as to lower her sword. She'd just placed a great amount of faith in him and now he had to prove that was not misplaced.

"Yes, Lady Vesi. I've come to bring you back to Nazarick."

[Philian Apolesai]

She must have misheard him—she couldn't believe what he had said. Her mind raced through every excuse it could fathom to deny his words to protect her from yet another heartbreak. She had heard that name too many times in dreams, in delusions that crumbled into dust when she awoke. But the longer she looked at him, the more memories surfaced, the more the dam within her began to crack. For centuries, she had wandered this world, always searching, always hoping against hope that she might find some trace of her true home. She had combed through ruins, dungeons, and forgotten realms, chasing the faintest whispers and rumors, only to be met with bitter dissapointment. Yet, here he was—

"Demiurge...?"

The demon nodded once more and stepped closer. Ulbert's creation was standing here, moving and breathing. Truly alive.

"Yes, my lady. Now please, Lord Ainz will be overjoyed to see you."

He created a portal and motioned for her to go through it, but Vesi couldn't move. It was too much—too perfect. She had been ripped away from them so violently, so suddenly, and she had spent every waking moment begging for this exact situation, the chance to see them again. And now, after all this time, after all the heartache and despair, she was being offered the very thing she had dreamed of. It was then her mind caught up with what he'd said.

"Ainz? You mean Momonga? He's here too?"

She had hoped he would be here. That sorcerer with the name from her past was here, waiting in Nazarick. Demiurge opened his mouth to respond but suddenly he whipped his head around. Vesi could feel it as well. A massive group had made their presence known in the south and they were quickly coming closer. The demons in the forest moved to block them, but it was clear they had no chance of holding for long. Demiurge turned back to her, his face unnaturally tranquil. His voice still even. Yet his tail betrayed him. This whole time it had been still but now it lashed wildly behind him.

"My lady, I vow to answer any questions you have, but now we really must go."

He was trying to keep her calm. It wasn't working particularly well. Vesi was already overwhelmed and now yet another group was tracking her down. But there were no other options. She stepped through and was immediately enveloped by the black void.

[Philian Apolesai]

The pair emerged from the [Gate] and Vesi was surrounded by a strangely familiar sensation. She had been expecting a hard stone floor, or plush carpeting to appear beneath her feet but in actuality she was greeted by soft grass. She had never been able to breath the air of Nazarick before, however she had certainly not expected it to smell of pine and freshly tilled dirt. Her eyes fluttered open to find that she had not been brought to Nazarick at all and was instead in the middle of a secluded farm surrounded by a dense forest.

Vesi's eyes narrowed as she quickly took in her surroundings. She turned to Demiurge, her earlier hope now rapidly being replaced by a growing sense of unease. Sensing her disappointment, he stepped foreword to calm her.

"My lady, please, I assure you—Nazarick is our destination. The Great Tomb's wards are as strong as ever, and I cannot bring us directly inside without proper preparation." He proudly gestured around the grove, vaguely pointing to all the fields and small buildings. "This is my farm, a safe place to wait while the [Gate] is prepared."

The pounding of her heart did ease, she remembered the teleportation blockers they'd set up, but that didn't stop her from feeling upset by the delay. Demiurge smiled at her, seeming much more at relaxed now that they'd gotten away from the ones in the woods. He bowed slightly which was strange to Vesi but she did not have time to ask as he spoke.

"I do sincerely apologize for making you wait, my lady. However, I will work to make your stay comfortable. Please come with me and I will answer all your questions."

He moved past her to the cabin right behind them and held the door, waiting for her to follow.

"Alright," she murmured, more to herself than to Demiurge. She would go along with what he said. He did seem trustworthy, she recognized him from her past life. Besides, it's not like she had anyone else that could help her now.

The inside of the cabin immediately filled her nose with the scent of freshly cut wood. A combined kitchen and living room made up the entryway and every piece of furniture was unique. The first thing that drew her eye was the kitchen island. It was made up of one single massive piece of wood that had been polished so perfectly she could faintly see herself in its reflection. She ran her hand along its glossy surface, feeling like a smooth glass under her fingers. She had never seen such fine craftsmanship before, not in this world or the last. She sighed slightly as she took in the atmosphere; it was so calming, soothing her nervous mind.

[Philian Apolesai]

Vesi moved through the small space, carefully inspecting every item within. Leaving Demiurge feeling slightly inadequate. These items were all his personal creations, not meant to be seen by any of his Supreme Beings. Demiurge stood a little awkwardly behind her, pushing up his glasses as he wondered how he could calm her fully. A small sigh fell from her lips, making his usual composure falter.

"I apologize for the humble accommodations, my lady. I didn't have much time to prepare, and I'm afraid this cabin is far from the standards you're accustomed to."

She turned to him with a trace of confusion on her face that soon melted into a small smile.

"Humble? I think it's beautiful."

[Philian Apolesai]

Having lived in ruined towns and waterlogged caves for the majority of her life here, this lovely cabin being described as below her standards was quite surprising. Sure, it wasn't on the same level of the Nazarick she remembered but that did not mean it wasn't charming. A small farmhouse on the countryside had been her dream when she was human. The unfortunate state of the world had prevented such a thing from ever coming true; but despite having never experienced it, this place was oddly nostalgic.

Demiurge's whole body straightened at her words, his tail quickly waving behind him. His wide smile returned and he bowed once more.

"You honor me with your words, my lady. Please, use this cabin for whatever you need. Perhaps a moment to refresh yourself? I know your journey has been long."

It was only then she realized how tired she was and how much of a mess she must be. She considered his words, she didn't want to risk delaying things further but she couldn't deny. "A shower does sound nice." She glanced around, searching for the bathroom, and Demiurge promptly moved to guide her. He led her down the hall and as he opened the door for her Vesi realized his suit was still drenched from their previous altercation, sending a pang of guilt through her. She technically hadn't known him long but she remembered the care that Ulbert put into him. His favorite creation didn't deserve to be so disheveled. The thought of him standing there, still dripping wet, made her feel a deep need to ensure his well-being.

Demiurge brought her through a small, cozy bedroom and paused at the bathroom door, bowing as he opened it for her with a respectful flourish.

"I hope you can find some reprieve here, my lady," his voice was gentle, almost reverent.

Vesi paused for a moment, taking in his words and the sincerity in his expression. He was so dedicated, he'd already done so much to bring her here, it didn't sit right with her to let him put himself second. She wanted him to be safe, to be well, not just because it was the right thing to do, but because she remembered the pride Ulbert had in him. She owed him that much.

A small smile touched her lips, and she met his gaze. "Thank you. Do make sure to take care of yourself as well. I wouldn't want you to catch a cold."

Demiurge hesitated, the light in his crystal eyes flickering briefly between her and the rest of the cabin. His smile softened, a hint of warmth seeping through his usual stoic demeanor.

"Ah, please do not worry about me, my lady. Your comfort is my utmost priority."

Vesi couldn't help but chuckle, a soft, almost musical sound that seemed to lighten the air between them. "Well, don't sacrifice your health for me. I'm fine. Take care of yourself now."

She watched as his expression wavered between duty and something more personal. He seemed almost conflicted, but after a brief pause, he dipped his head in acknowledgment.

"As you wish, my lady," he replied, his tone tinged with a rare, genuine fondness.

With a final smile, Vesi stepped into the bathroom, closing the door gently behind her. The cabin's rustic charm extended even here, the scent of pine from the walls mingled with the crisp air, forming a calming atmosphere that finally let her heart slow. As she turned on the shower, the sound of water filling the small space, she allowed herself a moment to reflect on their exchange. Despite the distance time had placed between her and her memories of Nazarick, something in Demiurge's presence felt comforting, almost familiar. She approached the mirror, her reflection staring back at her—disheveled, soaked, but with a glimmer of something she hadn't seen in centuries: hope.

Could this really be happening? She asked herself, pushing her arm into the cascading water. Its warmth grounded her but her mind was still racing. She had been careful to protect herself from the false hope that had plagued her for years; chasing rumors of strong beings just to always be left alone. She never wanted to feel that pain of disappointment again but this time was so different. Demiurge, Ulbert's creation, was here; and he promised to protect her and bring her to Momonga. Was it possible everyone had somehow made it here?

Vesi shook her head, trying to be rational. What if it was all a trick? What if this was another cruel twist of fate? But as she replayed his actions in her mind, as she thought of the way he had looked at her with genuine concern, she felt her defenses begin to crumble.

The warm water enveloped her as she stepped into the shower, steam curling around her in a comforting embrace. For a moment, she stood still, allowing the heat to seep into her tired body. But no amount of warmth could stop the tears from welling up in her eyes. She braced herself against the tiled wall, her thoughts spiraling. Memories of Nazarick, of her friends, and the life she had been torn away from surged forward, too powerful to push down any longer.

A choked sob escaped her lips as the weight of it all hit her. I'm going to Nazarick. I'll be with them again. The thoughts repeated in her mind, each time breaking down another wall she had built to protect herself. Tears mixed with the water as she let the emotions flow freely.

[Philian Apolesai]

As Vesi closed the door to the bathroom, Demiurge allowed himself a moment of relief. His mind raced, but there was a sense of satisfaction. She was back—alive, despite Albedo's best efforts, and just as caring as he remembered. Demiurge's lips curve into a small, genuine smile, rare for him. To think his lady would be so concerned with him even after all she'd been through. However his appearance quickly brought his high back down. His suit was completely soaked through and roughed up with dirt from when he so foolishly startled her.

He straightened his posture, shaking off any lingering discomfort. As a guardian, he should always look perfect. Especially when there was a new Supreme Being who would also be needing him at his best. The mere thought had his heart singing once more. Quickly, he gathered new clothing and moved to a different room to change.

After taking just a moment to ensure everything was in its proper place Demiurge let out a content sigh. He already had work to do for Lady Vesi and everything aught be ready for her. He decided to start with Shalltear first. Having the way prepared for whenever his lady was ready seemed wise.

'Shalltear' He called out to her in his mind. The connection was promptly made and the usual sweet voice greeted him.

'Good morning, Demiurge~ Did you need my help with something?'

Demiurge was an expert at not showing his feelings but simply hearing her annoyed him slightly. She has been desperate to prove herself to everyone, to return their trust in her. Their lord had forgiven her but Demiurge was still... bitter, to say the least. However, those personal feelings would not stop him from working for his lady.

'Yes. Could you please open a [Gate] at my position and connect it to the ninth floor?'

'Hm.. What for?'

'Unfortunately, that must remain a secret for now.'

He could almost hear the gears in her head turning as she tried to think of something that could make him tell. Despite her ignorance, she seemed to hate not knowing things, and while he was not fond of her past actions, he did not wish to keep her in the dark either. But he had to. She was simply too talkative. If he told her that one of their Supreme Beings had reappeared and he would be bringing her home, she would surely tell everyone. As she should, it was a miracle that needed be celebrated. However, that everyone would most certainly include Albedo and that woman needed to stay as far away as possible until their lady was ready to see her. Demiurge still didn't know what to do about her. For now, he chose to hope that she would give up on her insanity after Lord Ainz and Lady Vesi were brought together.

Another small 'hmm' echoed through his skull. She should have granted his request the moment she'd confirmed it was him, but she wanted to delay things. Likely out of spite, or to give herself more time to think of a question.

'Could you do that for me, Shalltear?' He asked again. She sighed slightly but she relented.

'Yes, yes. Give me one moment.'

A swirling black void materialized behind him.

'Thank you, Shalltear. I do appreciate it.'

'Yeah, sure.'

She'd lost interest in the conversation but that was fine. He ended the [Message] with a content smile. Now he got to be the bearer of great news for their lord. To be the one to reunite two Supreme Beings, it felt like he was floating. However, he did still need to choose his words carefully. His tail rhythmically tapped against the ground as he thought about the best way to phrase this. Should he flatly say what was going on or simply urgently request him? If Albedo had already returned and made her way back to his side, outright telling him Lady Vesi had returned could be dangerous. Demiurge knew his master's plans were well crafted, that he was looking thousands of years into the future to ensure everything would follow his script; yet even he believed his lord had not predicted this. It was always best to ere on the side of caution he decided.

'Lord Ainz. Might I request a moment of your time?' Despite not being able to see his lord, Demiurge still bowed as he sent out the [Message] and remained lowered until the response came through.

'Huh? Demiurge?' Lord Ainz quietly cleared his throat. 'What seems to be the issue?'

'There is no problem, my Lord. However, I would like to schedule a meeting as soon as possible.'

Hopefully that would be vague enough for any nosy succubus while still letting his lord know something was wrong.

'Hmm, aright. I will be returning to Nazarick shortly, come to my office then.'

'Thank you for your generosity, my lord.'

Demiurge bowed once more and waited for the [Message] to disconnect. Now all he needed to do was wait for his lady to be ready. He paced the living room, tail swaying happily behind him.

[Philian Apolesai]

She didn't know how long she'd sat there, letting the water wash over her as she let herself feel joy for the first time. She eventually she turned off the water. The sound of her own ragged breathing filled the silence as she leaned against the cool tiles, trying to gather herself. I have to pull it together, she told herself, though her heart had started racing again with a mix of fear and anticipation. Wiping her eyes, she finally stepped out, grabbing a towel to dry off.

In an effort to calm down Vesi reached into her inventory. Looking over all her old clothes she never bothered with anymore, always far too tired or too upset to even glance at them; but now they made her giddy. She settled on a simple silver dress. It was her starting outfit from Yggdrasil. Perhaps she was allowing herself to get too excited, the pessimistic side of her mind still nagged at her. She would not let those thoughts drag her down any further. There was no other explanation for this situation. She was finally going to see her friends again, and she was going to wear her favorite dress when she did. After equipping it she moved back to the mirror and did a small twirl. Her eyes were still slightly red but her mood had improved drastically.

When she opened the bathroom door she found Demiurge waiting outside, freshly changed into a dry suit. His expression flickered with concern as he looked at her, clearly noticing the lingering distress in her eyes.

"My lady," he was speaking gently again, slowly approaching as he spoke, "were you able to relax at all?"

Vesi tried to smile, but it wavered. That look of concern for her and eagerness to help threatened to make her tears return. Yet when she turned away he made an effort to stand in front of her, his tail now coiled about his feet. He was so desperate to please, to assist her in any way he could. Such positive attention was quite a new experience and just a little overbearing, but she found herself unable to deny him an answer. "Sorry. I didn't want to worry you, it's just..." She took a deep breath as she looked around the room, trying to find the words to explain herself to him. "I hadn't tried to come here, I never wanted to leave Yggdrasil at all. For years I tried to find my way back but eventually, I just gave up. Resigned myself to never seeing anyone I cared for again." Vesi brought her gaze back to him. "I just can't believe I'm actually back."

Demiurge's tail stilled as he listened to her. His lady crying was of course upsetting, none of his supreme beings should have had to experience such loneliness, but a dark side of him was overjoyed. While he and the rest of Nazarick were suffering through the abandonment of their creators, she had been feeling something similar. Now she was back with them and so overwhelmed with bliss that she was brought to tears. Vesi had never wanted to leave them and, judging from this reaction, she would never want to leave Nazarick again.

He extended a hand, offering her a choice. His voice was soft as he spoke. "I'm sorry we were not there for you, my Lady, but we are here now. If you'll come with me, Lord Ainz is ready to see you."

[Philian Apolesai]