Edster: Hello there everyone, and welcome back to the historic 30th chapter of the Nazarick Triumvirate! Hope you are all doing well and enjoying this latest season of anime. Every show I'm watching has been a hit, and they are all only going to get better as the weeks go on!
daniel: Hey everyone, we're back! Hope that you all will enjoy this chapter! We had such a great time with it! And thanks for helping us reach another milestone with over 300 favorites! You guys are the best!
Edster: As my co-author stated, we cannot thank you enough for another historic milestone on this landmark chapter. On both his behalf and mine, every one of you who has stuck around for this long are the best and we hope you continue to enjoy what we write, including this chapter where the workers invade Nazarick, only to find horrors awaiting them instead of the riches they were after! 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 30 – Home Invasion Gone Wrong
"The more I look at it, the stranger it seems," Arche commented from her vantage point where she was observing the top of a strange structure that was on par with where the map had indicated their target to be located through a telescope, with the rest being hidden from view by a mix of shrubbery and hills that, if Arche and the rest had observed more closely, looked to have grown from seemingly out of nowhere which was unusually fast for most vegetation. "I can't tell from this angle what era it's from, or what culture it could have come from…not from this distance at least."
"That's a good sign then," Hekkeran commented from Arche's side as he took his turn observing the structure. "It means we're much more likely to run into something interesting inside." Arche sighed at her leader's relaxed observation, but before she could reply her attention turned behind her as footsteps heralded the arrival of the rest of Foresight.
"Think that's guaranteed," Imina added with a hint of intrigue.
"Although it is possible that a terrifying and powerful undead could be lurking inside," Roberdyck, ever the cautious one, spoke up making the others frown a little before comforting themselves with thoughts of what manner of adventure and reward could be waiting for them inside this undiscovered place.
"It'd also be interesting to know why this tomb was built and what kind of person and treasures got buried inside it," Imina wondered.
"Yeah, nothing beats the excitement of exploring the total unknown," Hekkeran said with a smile and a pump of his fists, lifting the spirits of the previously worried Arche and Roberdyck.
"What would excite me…is if the tomb was full of money. Imagine that on top of all of the reward money we were promised…" While the group let out a series of hearty chuckles at Arche's single-minded focus they internally hoped, for her sake, that this would be the case. Just like Momon had observed, none of them were in this for selfish reasons. They all wanted what Arche wanted: enough money to pay off the debts of the Furt family so that Arche could take her sisters away from that life. Whatever came afterwards for the other three…they'd leave that up to whatever the gods and fate had in store for them, but right now Arche took priority. And if the worst came to pass…they would prioritise her life over their own so she at least could make it home and be with her sisters.
"In that case…I'm sure this is going to be our best job yet…" "And our last one…" Hekkeran added silently to himself, a sentiment which was privately echoed by both his partner and best friend. "I think we've observed all we can from up here. Let's go down and inform the rest of what we saw."
"I swear to the gods…if that jumped-up prick eyes up my tits one more time I will cut his balls off and feed them to him, comradery be damned…" Imina muttered as they descended. No one, except for perhaps Roberdyck albeit his reasons were more due to the tenets of his faith rather than personal feelings, disagreed with the half-elf's threat as they, along with perhaps the other groups from what they'd heard and seen, had already gotten fed up with Erya's antics during the duration of the trip. Thankfully the bastard had been prevented from indulging in his more twisted desires by the presence of Momon and Nabe of Darklight among them since no one, not even that arrogant slimeball, was stupid enough to stand up against a man who had gone toe-to-toe with a demon king and won.
~TNT~
Once Foresight had reported their observations back to the others, a plan was made. Having used the scouts among them to get a closer look at what they were dealing with, combined with what Arche had seen through her telescope, they all decided that they would infiltrate the walls of the ruins from four different sides when the agreed-upon signal was given, with each team scouting out one of the smaller mausoleums before regrouping at the large one right in the centre. No one, not even Erya, disagreed with this plan, so in the dead of night, ropes were cast over the walls as each team began their assignment under the cover of Invisibility spells.
(Having overheard the plan whilst appearing to feign disinterest, Momon had then sent a Message to Demiurge telling him to leave some form of riches in each of the four locations as a way to provoke their interest and encourage them to explore further. If the workers decided to stuff their pockets it was no concern to him, they had more than enough coin as it was and they could always take it back from their corpses once the night was over).
"That was one short-loved Invisibility spell," the rogue of Heavy Masher commented as they flanked the doors of their chosen structure.
"It lasted as long as needed and did its job, now come" Gringham commented sternly before, along with the other warrior in their group, jumping up the stairs and using his muscled shoulders to help push the doors open. To their surprise, the doors gave way rather easily, and as they opened fully both Gringham and his warrior partner raced in with swords drawn in case of an ambush only to find no being, neither alive nor undead, waiting for them, only a darkened room that they could barely make out.
"No traps as of yet…good," Gringham sighed with relief as he waved the mage of their party forward who proceeded to cast the spell Continual Light on both the tip of his staff and the warriors' swords which lit up the area around them in the process, and as they got a good look inside they found nothing but a burial chamber with a large blue banner hanging on the wall behind the sarcophagus.
"Hmm, never seen such a crest before. What about the rest of you?" Gringham frowned as he led the rest of his party inside, their eyes all peeled for any hidden traps. As everyone else also answered in the negative, the keen-eyed leader of Heavy Masher got a good look at the unknown banner and noticed that the symbol was woven from precious metals which the mage among them, upon closer observation, speculated would sell for a hefty amount of gold. One of the others then asked if they should take it with them, only for Gringham to shoot him down since it would be far too big and unwieldy to carry between them for the rest of the trip. Besides, they could always come back and retrieve it later should the rest of their excursion go well.
No one objected to this plan as they turned their attention to the centrepiece of the mausoleum, and as they all pried open the lid they were astonished at what they saw. It was filled to the brim with gold, ornate weapons, jewels and other artefacts and items of worth. Compared to the treasure trove in front of them the banner on the wall was hardly worth mentioning. After taking a moment to pick up only a small sample of what they could carry, the entirety of Heavy Masher made their way out of the mausoleum towards the larger one at the centre where, as they drew closer, they spotted the other worker teams already gathered and waiting for them.
"Gringham…what kept you guys?" Hekkeran asked from the top of the steps leading up to the mausoleum, the rest already gathered in the entryway to the massive structure as Heavy Masher panted their way up the towering stairs.
"Our apologies for making you and the others wait," Gringham spoke once he and his group had reached the leader of Foresight who merely shook his head.
"We didn't actually decide on a rendezvous time, so you're good," he pointed out as he led Heavy Masher towards where the rest were waiting for them. "And judging by the way I can hear your pockets jangling as you walk, I'm guessing you guys nabbed yourself a score?"
"Damn right!" Gringham puffed proudly. "Was there also treasure in the building your team explored?"
"Yeah, chock full of it and more than we could carry so we did as you guys and only took a small handful. We'll come back for the rest if we get the chance," Hekkeran answered with a smile. "Both Parpatra and Erya found treasure as well, so we're all off to a good start."
"It looks like this ruin will have enough riches for us all," Gringham observed as he, Hekkeran and the rest of Heavy Masher reached the top of a flight of stairs that, at first glance, looked as though they descended into an inky pool of darkness where nothing could be seen. Gathered at the bottom of the first set, right on the edge of where the moonlight clashed with the yawning darkness below, were the rest of the workers waiting on their arrival.
"It doesn't look as though we'll have any troubles accessing the lower floors, which is both surprising and slightly unnerving if I'm honest," the young man observed. "I expected there to be more of a barrier or doorway barring us from entry, but the fact it's wide open as if welcoming us in…I don't like it."
"Agreed…and the air around us positively reeks of death. Not a good sign…" Gringham murmured as they began to descend.
"Yeah, reminds me too much of when the others and I went to the Katze Plains," Hekkeran agreed as the others, as if sensing their approach turned and gave them nods of greeting. Now that they were all gathered together once more, Parpatra came forward with a proposal: He and his group would go back out onto the surface to look for any hidden entrances that might give them advanced passage to the lower levels of the place, theorising that a large tomb such as this would most likely have more than one way to get inside.
"The elder makes a good point. If providence wills it, he and his party might find a passageway that could lead directly to the heart of the tomb," Gringham spoke up as everybody else (except Erya and his slaves) nodded thoughtfully in agreement.
"What I will say though is that my team and I will be making a loss and putting ourselves at risk by not joining you down there, so in exchange we'd like to have a share of any treasure you find as you head inside," the elderly man pointed out. "Let's say about…10 percent from each team should do, and if there's a route to the lower levels how about my team takes first crack at it?"
"Heavy Masher has no qualms with that," Gringham quickly agreed.
"Neither does Foresight," Hekkeran added upon seeing Roberdyck, Imina and Arche all nod their agreement.
"I myself have a minor objection to the proposal," Erya spoke up pompously, causing everyone around him to sigh in exasperation. "Sharing 10 percent of my profits isn't a problem, but I…"
"Great! No objections!" Parpatra cut the annoying windbag off cheerily as he and his party headed back towards the surface, waving as they went which caused the pompous oaf to pout like a petulant child being denied candy. "Good luck down there and be careful! Oftentimes the most valuable of treasures are booby-trapped so either take care or leave them to us!"
"You got it! Good luck!" Hekkeran then turned to the rest once they'd seen Dragon Hunt off. "Alright then, let's get to it ourselves so we don't fall behind." As they headed past the initial entryway, they were eventually met with a metal door blocking their way as they'd been expecting, but a concerted push from both Roberdyck and Gringham forced it open granting them access, and as they all wandered inside they found themselves walking down a long passageway encased entirely from stone that was giving off a sickly green glow which was disconcerting yet welcome since the light illuminated their path forward. But as they headed down the passage, they also noticed to their mounting unease what appeared to be dead bodies wrapped in bandages lining the walls on either side of them
"So Roberdyck, can you sense any life or undead magic from those corpses?" Arche asked nervously from the rear of the group. Since they were the most heavily armoured, Heavy Masher had taken point with Foresight taking up position at the back in case of any ambushes, leaving Erya and his slaves to mind their own business in the centre.
"No, there ain't a spark of life in them…" The cleric confirmed, having used his holy magic to seek out any necromantic or dark magic in the air that could be used against them. Both Imina and Arche sighed in relief.
"This ruin is like nothing I've ever seen before…I wouldn't be surprised if it's a couple of hundred years old, maybe even a thousand," commented Heavy Masher's magic-caster.
"If it's that ancient we'll find more than gold," Arche noted. "Those mausoleums we scouted above means that this place could be one giant tomb. We'll probably find coffins containing dead from centuries past along with the relics and treasures they were buried with." A small spark of excitement could be seen in the normally pensive girl's face. "Who knows what sort of history and cultures we could uncover here?"
This got everyone else talking as they too found themselves thinking along similar lines…all except one, and there were no surprises in guessing who that party-pooper was. "Do you all mind ceasing your useless prattle and hurrying along please?" Erya complained aloofly. "Personally I would like to hunt down some monsters…this whole affair has been terribly droll so far…" No sooner had the pompous oaf spoken did they all pick up the sounds of clacking footsteps heading their way, and as the keen-eyed among them squinted into the distance they beheld a small squad of sword-bearing skeletons rushing towards them.
"You just had to jinx us, didn't you?" Hekkeran scowled as he and the rest drew their weapons to meet the onrushing undead. "But if I'm being honest…I was expecting more…"
"These are supposed to be tomb's defenders? They might as well have sent a swarm of bugs to deal with us," Heavy Masher's rogue commented with a growing chuckle that soon spread among the rest of his group as well as Erya and his slaves, and though Hekkeran and the rest of Foresight didn't join in they too couldn't help but feel let down at what seemingly passed for this place's defences. "This is so easy…we could fight these things blindfolded! I guess this rules out that absurd notion that this place is ruled over by some all-powerful monster, or if it is then that thing must be an idiot! I've never felt so underestimated before!"
"Such tripe is beneath me…hardly worth the effort of drawing my blade," Erya scoffed.
"Fine, looks like it's up to me to take them out I suppose…" Gringham sighed before drawing his axe. With a roar he charged full-pelt at the mob of skeletons and swung his axe, cleaving many of them and sending their bones scattering in all directions. This was followed up by a second swing that easily dealt with the rest. "These may only have been a test of our abilities…we cannot discount the possibility of there being more powerful foes awaiting us in the lower levels," he warned the rest as he crushed one of the fallen bones under his armoured foot. "We must not become careless…steel yourselves and keep your eyes peeled on your surroundings. Let's go!" His stern tone brooked no objections as the rest of the workers followed after him down the narrow hallway.
~TNT~
"So…it appears they have successfully made their entrance," Momon noted from his observation post on top of one of the hills surrounding Nazarick, where he was currently standing alongside one of the adventurers who'd been assigned to help guard and transport the workers' convoy.
"That they have…" the young man agreed. "They may be workers, but right now they're our comrades until the job is complete so I hope they made it back safely." He trailed off before side-glancing at the black-armoured behemoth. "What do you think, Sir Momon? Are they likely to run into danger?"
"If they do, I have no doubt they'll find resolve when faced with the danger of imminent death," Momon commented, making sure to keep his tone measured so as not to give his true feelings away. "These ruins are a new discovery…who knows that manner of dangers and traps lurk within? In uncertain times and moments like these, it's important to balance hope with pragmatism. While we should hope for their success, we must also be prepared for the worst."
"Oh, I see! Such sage advice, as to be expected from an honorary knight such as yourself! Thank you for enlightening my confusion!" The young man exclaimed with a beaming smile
"You flatter me, but I am glad I could help," Momon waved off dismissively. "Now then, since you are taking first watch I should go and rest. Wake either myself or Lady Nabe should you hear anything regarding their success."
"O-of course! Rest well, Sir Momon," the young man said to his back as Momon made his way down the hill back to their camp, whereupon entering his tent he found Nabe waiting for him amidst the bedding and other supplies they'd put out to keep up appearances.
"Is everything ready, Father?" the black-haired adventurer asked as she knelt before him.
"It is, Narberal. Now that the first watch is taking place, we have a few hours before Momon and Nabe are needed. It is time for me to return to Nazarick to oversee the rest of the operation, and I'll be sending Pandora's Actor in my place. I trust the pair of you will be able to handle any problems that may arise?"
"You may count on me, my lord. I promise I won't let you down," Nabe answered with a deep bow. Satisfied, Momon shifted back into his usual skeletal form before raising a hand to his temple in order to Message his creation.
(It's time…are you ready to do your part, Pandora's Actor?) He asked
(*Ja, mein Schöpfer! Ich bin bereit zu dienen!*) (*Rough translation: Yes, my Creator! I am ready to serve!*) The doppelgänger's enthusiastic reply in perfectly pronounced German once more caused Ainz to sigh internally and ask himself for the 1000th time what had been going through his head when coming up with this oddball as he teleported out of the encampment and into the Lemegeton. After taking a quick second to orient himself he strolled up to the doors to the Throne Room. He pushed them open, and as he strolled inside he found a hive of activity awaiting him next to the Throne itself as Henry, Fengxian, Albedo and Demiurge were using a combination of Nazarick's internal command system along with a fully-detailed map of each of the Tomb's floors to go over the final details of their operation. As Ainz approached, they all looked up and bowed/knelt as appropriate in greeting.
"Have all the preparations been made?" Ainz asked as he walked up the steps to his throne before sitting atop it.
"They have, Father, as per the orders you gave us before you and Narberal set out," Henry answered as he took his usual place at Ainz's right. "Albedo and Demiurge are wrapping up the final details, and then we'll be all set to go."
"I've just finished reviewing all the traps and other security measures that were put in place upon our arrival in this world," Demiurge added as he pushed and swiped through several menus and slides on his interface. "They all are ready to be activated and sprung upon our victims as soon as you give the order."
Albedo had a finger to her temple and was nodding at various points. When she had finished, she turned and bowed deeply to her father-in-law. "Everyone you have ordered to be involved are standing by at their stations, and I have just received word that Aura has everything set up in the arena for your 'grand finale'."
"Excellent work everyone…but before we start the festivities, I want to bring your attention to those 'unlucky' enough to be our guinea pigs. Onscreen." After activating the main command console from the throne, a slew of displays, interfaces and screens appeared before him, allowing him to watch everything that was going on and activate the various traps and other devices at will. He then waved the rest to join him as he focused on where the invading workers were currently making their way deeper into the tomb and instantly noticed how there were fewer of them than had entered. "Hmmm…it would seem we've lost track of one of our groups…where could they be…?"
"I see them, Father," Henry spoke up, bringing up one of the observation screens and enlarging it, revealing Parpatra and the rest of Dragon Hunt making their way back up the stairs towards the surface. "That's odd…why are they heading back up instead of further in with the rest? Surely they haven't given up already…"
"No…they didn't seem like the type who would fold so easily, which makes their chosen course of action more perplexing…" Ainz replied. "What could they be up to?"
"If I may offer a suggestion, my lords?" With a wave of his hand, Ainz motioned for Demiurge to proceed. "It could be that they are seeking a hidden entrance that might offer them a less dangerous route into the tomb in the hope that it might wind up being a shortcut."
"I guess that makes sense…shame there aren't any hidden entrances aside from teleporting in," Henry said with a small chuckle. "What did you make of that lot, Father?"
"Nothing special and mostly motivated by greed, except the old warrior at the front," Ainz answered, pointing at Parpatra. "From what I overheard I get the feeling he's hoping for one more grand adventure and payday before retiring."
"Well we'll definitely be making one of his dreams come true…shame he won't live to tell about it…" Even though he knew this whole affair was by their design, the Crown Prince still felt slightly irate and affronted that those people, motivated solely by greed, were daring to ransack his home, the place he, his brothers and the rest of Ainz Ooal Gown had spent so many years perfecting when they could have easily just taken all the riches that had been left for them at the beginning, split it between them and call it a day, and thus was more inure to letting these invaders pay for their transgressions using Ki, Demiurge and his beloved Albedo's merciless methods than he'd normally be. "If I remember correctly, Solution and Lupu told me they'll be stationed there with the rest bar Narberal. I'm sure they'll give our guests the welcome they deserve."
"Indeed. I've ordered them to give whoever they run into some hope of success, before utterly crushing it before their eyes," Ainz commented viciously before shifting the view back to the main group who at this point had split up and were each going their own way. He expanded the view on Heavy Masher first. "As well as being completely unremarkable, they're all motivated purely by greed and were prideful in the fact. They can be good guinea pigs for some of our untested traps."
"What do you wish for their ultimate fate?" Fengxian asked, speaking up for the first time.
"We'll keep a few alive if we can, three at most. Since his children are hungry, let's give one or two to Kyouhukou to keep them happy." Everyone present aside from Ainz gave an involuntary shudder as they all imagined what the Area Guardian and his spawn would do to them. "And we'll need at least one to be sent to Neuronist so that she can learn more about their motives and who sent them." Again, the rest all shuddered at the fate of the unlucky one who'd be sent to their torture expert.
"I'll make sure to direct our resources appropriately," Demiurge said with a bow before bringing up the screen showing Erya and his slaves. "What about this well-armoured human and his group?"
"A total scumbag." No one could miss the viciousness behind the Overlord's words as he spoke. "Rude, full of arrogance, dismissive and insulting of those he views as weaker than himself even when in public and a human supremacist who actively goes around saying all the other 'inferior' races should bow down and obey them." This was the sort of attitude that the likes of Albedo and Demiurge had expected from all humans until their Crown Prince had explained and shown otherwise and which had also been exemplified by the polite and respectful demeanours of Jemima, Ninya, Nfirea, Enri and others. Still, even they couldn't help but be a little shocked as well as seething at this lowly human's posturing. "And that's not even the worst part…he has all manner of filthy and degrading perversions, the most disgusting of which is that he actively enjoys and gets off on abusing and berating women, especially non-human ones such as the elven 'slaves' who make up his party. He even went as far as to cut off good chunks of their elven ears so they appeared more human, and that's not even taking into account the countless times that waste of skin has surely spent raping them all "
Everyone else present, even the sadistic Demiurge, was stunned at the extent of this human's depravity…all except Henry who could be seen visibly trembling with rage. While he'd be the first to admit he was a bit of a pervert, especially when it came to sexy yanderes as well as various other 'deres' that he had a soft spot for, he would never, EVER go as far as to take sick and twisted enjoyment in physically abusing them or touching them without their consent.
In his mind, a woman's body was to be adored and enjoyed as long as there was consent and trust between both parties. While he and his girls enjoyed quite a bit of physical roughhousing (Albedo especially loved it when her darling spanked her ass or fondled her breasts, Solution enjoyed being called degrading names whilst in the throes of passion, Lupusregina enjoyed being treated as nothing more than a broodmare when deep in her lust and Narberal enjoyed keeping to her maid role in the bedroom as she found it highly arousing to highlight her servitude to her beloved ) it was always after permission had been granted on both ends. For this sicko to not only initiate these acts but to also take gratification in them…the Crown Prince of Nazarick could feel the tethers on his temper shortening and was poised to erupt when he suddenly felt a cool hand resting on his cheek. Opening his eyes, he saw that it was Albedo who was looking back at him, her dazzling golden orbs radiating concern and understanding as if she had guessed her beloved's thoughts. Her touch and her gaze were enough to cool the jets on Henry's rage, but even as she pressed her head into his neck and wrapped her arms around his waist, his eyes still shone with fury as he looked over at Ainz who, along with the rest, was watching him with concern.
"Please tell me you'll make him suffer, Father," the dragonoid growled in both anger and arousal considering where one of Albedo's trailing hands was now reaching.
"I fully intend to…such an honourless and disgusting knave deserves the cruellest and most merciless of deaths," Ainz answered with an understanding nod. "I was initially thinking of giving him to Hamsuke to test our resident hamster's skills, but knowing him he'd most likely play with his food instead of dispatching him immediately. Demiurge, do you have something suitable in mind for such vermin?"
Demiurge's eyes glinted behind his spectacles, but before he could utter a word Fengxian got in first. "I'll deal with him, Lord Ainz," the warlord growled, a noise made more sinister through the echo of his helm. Even with the unfeeling nature of his race and character continuing to ebb away at everything he used to be along with any regard for empathy, the Grand Marshal of Nazarick still had the humanity within him to recognise how utterly sick and depraved this man was and that such a shitstain deserved nothing less than a merciless death full of pain and suffering. "I'll make sure he suffers all the pain he inflicted upon everyone he's ever abused with interest, while also making it quick to show how utterly insignificant and worthless he is."
Seeing that the Grand Marshal's answer had pleased both Demiurge and Albedo as well as doing wonders in continuing to lower Henry's rage levels (which Albedo was also doing a marvellous job at through more…intimate…measures), Ainz immediately gave his assent. "Very well. Once we're done here, I want you to head to where Hamsuke and the rest of the trainees are currently waiting in order to deal with him." Fengxian nodded as Ainz proceeded to bring up the final screen showing the members of Foresight in their area of exploration. "Now, as for these four individuals…more so than the others, they have caught my interest."
"How so, Father?" Henry asked curiously after freeing himself, albeit reluctantly, from Albedo's passionate ministrations.
"While they also came along for the promise of wealth, I believe it's not for their personal gain but rather a more selfless reason which I have yet to unravel," Ainz mused as they watched them move along a corridor with the cleric among them easily blasting aside a group of undead with his holy magic. "I could see it in their eyes and how they shifted uncomfortably when the rest were bragging about how they were in it purely for wealth. They are also a very close-knit group with a sort of…unspoken trust shared between each other that they would risk their lives for one another without a second thought."
"Just like us now and with the rest of our friends back in the old days" was the thought that went through the mind of each of the Supreme Beings while Ainz continued. "Even if they are to meet their end here along with the rest, I'd still like to speak with them and test their abilities for myself."
"You think these humans may have use for us?" Demiurge asked curiously.
"Potentially, but as I stated I'd have to take their measure for myself. Make sure to lead them towards the arena where we'll suitably welcome them. Henry. Albedo." He turned his gaze to the two who abruptly stood at attention. "You two, along with the Grand Marshal once he has dealt with his victim, will join me, and be sure to gather a suitable audience for our show. Shalltear, the twins, Ninya and Jemima should do. And speaking of our resident secretary…Albedo, has she completed the task I asked of her?"
"She has, my lord. I believe she is ready to present it to you upon your command," the succubus answered.
"Very good. Tell her to bring all the details when you speak to her." Ainz then sat back and motioned for the others to gather around. "In the meantime, let's see what our 'guests' make of our 'hospitality' shall we?"
~TNT~
Ainz's prediction about the insignificance of Heavy Masher thus making them perfect dummies for some of their traps proved to be spot on as they were the first to run into danger within Nazarick's depths. Not long after splitting off from the other Workers, the party had run into a patrolling squad of elder liches who had started throwing fireballs, ice bolts and other spells at them. Caught off guard by the surprise and power of their attackers, the healer and mage of Heavy Masher didn't have time to put up any form of defence and were swiftly taken down, leaving Gringham and the other two to flee headlong with the liches in hot pursuit.
After a few minutes of running the thief of the group had discovered a door along their passage and had urged the others through it, but unfortunately for them they ended up triggering one of the old teleportation traps that Garnet had designed so long ago and placed at various hidden points around the Great Tomb, and since the effects of the teleportation were random the rest of Heavy Masher got separated. The other fighter was unfortunately transported right into the clutches of Nazarick's special intelligence gatherer/torturer Neuronist Painkill who, after lambasting the poor man for daring to lay foot in the sacred halls of Nazarick, gushing about what a magnificent man Ainz Ooal Gown was and how she was so much more worthy of being his consort than the 'stupid brat' that was Shalltear proceeded to chain him before moaning about how all of her torture devices had been underutilised so far and how she longed to make greater use of them to make the dreams of her Supreme Beings come true.
Upon seeing her reach for a particularly vicious tool that bore a resemblance to a device that would remove kidney stones from one's body, her 'victim' had passed out from horror much to the torturer's disappointment, only for her to wake him with up a searing cold ice shower while proclaiming that the night was still young. The man's screams then echoed far and wide, but given how separated Neuronist's chambers were sequestered within the massive expanse of the icy Fifth Floor, no one else heard them.
As for Gringham and the thief, they had the dire misfortune of landing directly within the Black Capsule on Nazarick's Second Floor. Upon their arrival amid the darkened room full of its owner's spawn, they were greeted by Kyouhukou who, after expressing his thanks for their arrival, told his spawn that 'dinner' was served. Despite their best attempts to plead and bargain their way out of it, it proved to be futile as no amount of bribery would work on the insectoid Area Guardian, and shortly after both Gringham and his companion were devoured limb by limb and from the inside out by Kyouhukou's seemingly endless progeny.
As was often the case when witnessing the work of two of the 'Five Worst', everyone present in the Throne Room couldn't repress their shudders. Though their ultimate fate had been decided when they entered Nazarick with nothing on their mind but greed, Ainz and Henry privately agreed between themselves that no one, no matter how much of a scumbag they were, deserved such fates.
~TNT~
"Are you sure that was a good call back there, boss?" One of the members of Dragon Hunt asked Parpatra as they headed back down the stairs of the large mausoleum. It was now fully night and the moon was both full and clear in the sky with not a cloud or hint of rain in sight. "I feel like we're going to be losing out on a lot of treasure in the process…"
"We'll be gaining priority on the future forays into this ruin, so it won't be a complete loss for us," Parpatra replied as flashed his compatriot a wink and a toothy grin, the latter of which was quite disturbing given the number of teeth the old man was missing due to both old age and the years he had spent as a worker. "Besides, if you ask me…it's dangerous to be the first group to explore an unknown dungeon. Best to let the others take the risk…"
"A very pragmatic and well-thought approach, one to be commended," a clear, female voice spoke up from behind them, and as Parpatra and the rest of Dragon Hunt turned their heads they saw that they were no longer alone. Standing at the top of the stairs they had just descended were five young girls, all clad in maid outfits and each holding some manner of weapon. "If those we hold our allegiance to were here, they would doubtless agree with your plan. A shame then that none of you will be walking out of here tonight under your own power."
"Hmm…so much for the others being the ones to take the risks…" Parpatra murmured as he and the rest of Dragon Hunt turned around and drew their own weapons.
"What do you think we should do now, boss?" The tank of the group asked quietly.
"They don't outnumber us, but I don't like the look on some of their faces…" Parpatra whispered back quietly, noticing the blonde-haired maid's hungry eyes and the redhead licking her lips in anticipation. "Still…I think we might be able to manage…"
Unfortunately for Parpatra and the rest of the group, their thief put his foot in his mouth and thus sealed their fates. "Gotta say with the shape this tomb's in, these maids haven't been doing their jobs properly." This casual remark said in jest was the exact wrong thing to say as each of the five ladies' expressions turned murderous. Only the wishes of their Supreme Beings were currently stopping their hands from tearing the impudent fool asunder for daring to besmirch both them and the sacred halls of Nazarick which they and the Homunculus maids had taken great pleasure in cleaning and maintaining. But such wishes didn't include blocking their verbal displeasure at this disrespect.
"THEY MUST ALL DIE!" Entoma bellowed, extending her arms out to reveal the full extent of her appendages.
"They need to die." Even the soft-spoken and calm CZ was visibly annoyed.
"If it weren't for the orders of my Father and beloved, I would take great pleasure in making their deaths as drawn-out and painful as possible." Even with the amount of time spent with their beloved, neither Solution nor Lupusregina had completely lost their sadistic edge, and any insult against either them, Lord Fengxian or Nazarick would bring it out in full force.
"Yes, yes…by the end of tonight all of these foolish men will die, and I am glad to see you all so motivated in seeing it done, but the orders of our masters were clear, and as dutiful servants we must carry them out exactly as we were instructed to do," Yuri interrupted with a clap of her hands, giving each of her sisters a meaningful look before returning her gaze to the group of workers who had tensed up from all of their threats. "Gentlemen…while circumstances dictate that we are not the ones who will be taking your life, which is a great shame, allow us to introduce the foes you'll be facing in our stead." She then clapped her hands again. "Nazarick Old Guarders, arise! Your masters call you to serve!"
"Huh? What does she-?" Before Parpatra or any of his comrades could speak further they were interrupted by a series of dull moans from behind them. Looking back, they saw to their horror a small number of undead rising out of the ground, each of them holding basic weaponry and clad in worn or badly damaged armour. This had been a deliberate move on the part of Ainz and the others who wanted to give the workers some form of hope by pitting them against the weakest undead from their swarms of Old Guarders, only to then snuff it out in an instant when the time was right.
"A pincer attack?" Even in this dire situation, the elderly warrior couldn't help the excited grin on his face at the prospect of a good battle. But as he looked back and forth between the undead and the maids, he found himself re-evaluating his prior assumption. "No…they look as though they're being true to their word and staying out of it." Upon looking upon their new opponents however, his and the rest of Dragon Hunt's grins faded a little as they picked out one or two of the undead bearing some form of magical armament or shield. "I must say this is quite the honour to be given the chance to fight some powerful undead…those wielding the magic weapons must be some of the strongest beings in these ruins…" As he was too busy waxing lyrical he missed the chuckles of amusement from both Solution and Lupusregina which were quickly snuffed out by a glare from their eldest sister. "Seems like our efforts to avoid danger have put us in the thick of things…"
"Why don't we just run for it?" The mouthy thief from before asked. "They outnumber us at least three-to-one, and those with the magic weapons could easily tear us apart."
"We lost any chance of escape as soon as they pincered us," Parpatra commented grimly as he prepped his spear. "Any chance for us to live to fight another day lies through them, not behind us. Stand your ground and focus! If we work together, we can surely outnumber these foes!"
"Yes, I believe that is the best chance you have. Good lick gentlemen! We will be rooting for your success!" Yuri commented cheerily as all of Dragon Hunt let out fierce roars before charging to meet their undead foes head-on.
"I do hope they will give us a bit of a show, otherwise this whole exercise would be a sad waste of time," Entoma commented as battle was joined.
"Then it's a good thing we won't be bored because I brought snacks!" Lupusregina exclaimed, producing two bowls from her inventory full of what appeared to be fluffy white kernels that were still smoking from heat. "My beloved explained how this snack, which he calls 'popcorn', could be easily made to the cooks. You take maize, subject it to heat, add a pinch of salt and hey presto! It's delicious!" As the bowls were passed around, all of Lupusregina's sisters agreed it was adequately tasty as they settled in to watch the action.
Credit where credit was due, the team of five had been able to formulate a quick plan and were executing it well. Since the ones with the magic weapon and armour would no doubt be far more dangerous than the rest, a concerted effort was made to swarm and dispatch the weaker undead. At the same time, Parpatra used his many years of experience and guile to lure the powerful undead away on a merry dance across the courtyard. Even though the undead had the numbers, they lacked the basic concepts of strategy and trickery and were helpless against their more experienced foes. The mage and thief among them used all their tricks and tools to thin the archers while the tank dispatched the melee troops, with the healer stepping in and providing support when needed. Once they were all downed, the rest of the party joined Parpatra and, focusing on them one at a time, were able to whittle down and defeat the rest.
"They put up as good a fight as we were expecting," CZ commented while reaching a hand beneath the folds of her outfit.
"My beloved and Lord Fengxian were both hopeful they'd be able to handle this rabble, and as always they were right," Solution mused, doing her best to hide the slight disappointment of not seeing these humans torn apart as they deserved.
"Hmm, seems like the battle has been decided," Lupusregina hummed before giving her younger sister and fellow harem member a tap on the shoulder. "Fear not though little sis…we'll still get to see some bloodshed before the night is done!"
With the tough battle over, the five members of Dragon Hunt were all panting heavily, their breaths visible in the cold night air as they stood amidst the remains of the undead they had managed to defeat. But despite their exhaustion, they couldn't help but smile at one another as they realised just what they pulled off.
"We actually did it!" The thief exclaimed, clutching his daggers with trembling hands. "And for a moment I was worried my mouth would have gotten us in trouble!"
"Calm yourselves," Parpatra warned before they all got carried away. "This is only the start. For now, we need to regroup and-" Whatever he was about to say next was cut off as a sharp, metallic click echoed ominously through the still night air. Looking up, their gazes landed on the ginger-haired maid with the eyepatch who had stepped forward, and in the light of the torches that were scattered around them, they caught a small flash of a metallic object cradled in her hand. "What is that?"
"Well done, brave warriors. Your heroic victory this night would surely be a tale worthy of song in your taverns and halls," Yuri proclaimed loudly as Lupusregina, Solution and Entoma all eyed them gleefully in anticipation of what was to come. "Unfortunately, such a tale will never grace their ears as this is where the story for most of you ends. CZ?"
"Orders confirmed. Targets identified." CZ's visible eye started glowing green as a series of lines of code and other strange symbols flashed across the pupil. "Humans. To commemorate your heroic victory, you have the honour of dying at the hands of CZ Delta, Battle-Maid of the Pleaides. Do not fear, for I will make your deaths swift and painless as befitting your heroism." Before any of Dragon Hunt could object, the night erupted with the sound of gunfire as CZ, with swift and precise movements, drew a small pistol and shot four bullets into the skulls of Papatra, the tank, the mage and the healer producing clean bullet wounds in their foreheads, the hope in their eyes quickly extinguished as they all perished on the spot. Before the thief could react, he found himself screaming in pain as another couple of shots pierced both of his kneecaps and sent him sprawling to the ground while desperately trying to stop the blood gushing from his wound as tears streamed down his eyes.
"Mission complete. Targets exterminated or crippled as directed," CZ commented, holding the still-smoking weapon with the barrel pointed towards the sky.
"Very good, little sister," Yuri praised with another clap of her hands. "Now then, let's prepare our guest for his transfer to his new accommodations.
"What's the new toy, little sis? You usually stick to your assault rifle." Lupusregina asked the robotic maid casually as they strode down the steps as she eyed up the pistol.
"This is a new weapon that Lord Constantine helped me create," CZ answered, glancing at the weapon. "It is made from the same materials as my rife but operates differently."
"It is certainly very effective. How different is it?" Yuri enquired, her interest piqued.
"The pistol is more compact and allows for greater manoeuvrability in close-quarters combat. It uses specialised ammunition designed to maximise damage while minimising the risk of collateral harm," CZ explained monotonously. "The Crown Prince suggested the design to complement my existing arsenal, ensuring that I am prepared for any combat scenario."
"Another astounding idea from my beloved, as always, and a perfect weapon for tonight's festivities." Solution never missed a chance to gush over the brilliance of her darling. "How does it compare in terms of firepower?"
"The firepower is slightly reduced compared to the semi-automatic rifle," CZ explained, "but the accuracy and ease of use in confined spaces make up for it. The materials used are the same high-grade alloys, ensuring durability and reliability in prolonged engagements."
"Darling's foresight is as amazing as always, and it certainly got the job down tonight!" Lupusregina chuckled mischievously. "I almost felt sorry for those guys as I saw the light leave their eyes. Almost."
"Let's get this man to the Fifth Floor and then report back to the Supreme Beings. No doubt they will be pleased with the results of tonight's exercise." As always Yuri's clipped and professional orders got them right back on track as they approached the bleeding man who was now whimpering from both the pain and shock of what had happened to his comrades.
"Can my spawn and I eat the bodies, big sister?" Entoma asked greedily.
"You absolutely may, once the Supreme Beings have finished examining them." Yuri's immediate reply caused Solution and Lupusregina to giggle and the injured man to vomit.
"I can't wait to tell Narberal about this. She'll be so upset she missed out," Lupusregina said with a chuckle as they all surrounded the wounded thief who was definitely now regretting his flippant comments from earlier as he stared into the eager faces of the five maids and, much to their further amusement, actually pissed himself in terror.
~TNT~
"Why have you stopped walking? Move along or else you'll get the punishment again!" Erya barked at his dusty-haired slave who he'd sent out in front of him to scout/take a blow for him should any surprises come along. The girl shook her head and shakily pointed ahead, but before Erya could scold or hit her again he also began to hear what had no doubt forced her to stop: The distant clanging and clashing of different weapons and the shouts and barks of various voices giving orders or praising a colleague's efforts.
"A training ground? In an arena such as this? How perfectly absurd…" With another exasperated sigh, Erya followed his slave, with the other two trailing behind him with lowered heads, down the passageway which then turned to the left, after which was another small passageway which led to a large open doorway. As the human crossed the entryway, with all of his slaves now trailing behind him, he wouldn't have believed what he was seeing if he hadn't seen it for himself as he entered the training arena located on Nazarick's Third Floor, normally reserved for Shalltear and her minions but for this night alone was reserved for another purpose.
Not only were there undead striking their rusted blades against training dummies, but Erya also espied Lizardmen doing the same as well as feathering archery targets with arrows or directing their fellows in similar exercises. And the strangest sight of all was the largest hamster he'd ever set eyes on striking wooden targets over and over with a mix of its tail and claws to the encouragement and cheers of many of its Lizardmen fellows. So wrapped up were they all in their training that they completely ignored Erya and his group's unannounced entry, a reaction the full-of-himself human was unused to getting which caused his face to twist and scowl in fury. Did not these uncouth denizens know how he was? They should be bowing, scraping and laying a red carpet down at his feet for even permitting them to gaze upon his mighty and esteemed visage!
"Ahem!" Erya coughed, an undignified manner of greeting that he didn't mind utilising for greeting such lowly non-humans. But rather than a warm greeting or even a curious one, every being in the room, even the normally non-expressive undead, turned their heads as one and gazed at Erya with undisguised fury and disgust (having been informed by their Supreme Beings of just what this disgusting human was capable of, especially towards non-humans). With practised military precision installed in them by the likes of their Grand Marshal and Crown Prince, they all dropped whatever they were doing and moved to form one solid circle around Erya and his slaves, the former of whom watched this all with a condescending sneer.
"Finally come to face us, this foolish human has," Hamsuke spoke up in their peculiar manner of speech, standing directly behind Erya in the middle of the massive entryway from which he'd come.
"And just what manner of uncouth beast are you to dare greet me in such a way?" Erya asked with barely concealed disgust. To be greeted in such a low-down manner was an insult to his status!
"Merely a messenger I am today," the beast in question replied. "Eager was I to face and defeat you with fang and claw, but the right to take your life has my teacher claimed." The beast then looked behind Erya with a toothy grin before kneeling alongside the rest of those assembled as best it could. "Arrived, he has. If value your life you do, act in the same manner you should."
"What in blazes are you-?" Whatever Erya was about to say to the hamster was cut off by the sound of heavy footfalls from behind him, and as he turned around he beheld the massive silhouette of a warrior clad all in black, wielding a giant halberd and whose very aura and presence sent a faint shiver of fear down the normally cocky warrior's spine. "And just who do you think you are to approach and stand before me in such a manner? Do you not know who I am?" That was the wrong thing to say as everyone present, besides the giant warrior, snarled at this human's show of disrespect towards the Supreme Being.
"I do not, nor do I care," Fengxian's voice rumbled like a distant thunderclap. It had been one thing to witness this human's arrogance and depravities through a monitor, and quite another to witness it in person. This filth deserved no honour and not even a chance of trying to best him, and that's what exactly what Fengxian did with his next action as, in a blur of movement no human eye could possibly follow, the Nephilim shot forward and gripped Erya by his weaselly neck, lifting him effortlessly into the air. The arrogant ponce's eyes bulged as he clawed at Fengxian's unyielding grip, gasping for breath, but to no avail. "You are nothing more than a blight, a creature who revels in the suffering of others, and in your death, you will know how it feels." With another swift motion, Fengxian slammed Erya to the ground, the impact driving the air from the human's lungs. Gasping for breath while trembling with fright, Erya tried to scramble away from the incarnation of death before him, only for Fengxian's boot to press down on his back and pin him to the floor with bone-crushing force.
"No…please…have mercy…I can give you whatever you want…" the man gasped, his previous arrogance utterly shattered and replaced by abject terror.
"You have nothing I want except your death," Fengxian's voice was now as cold as ice. "As for mercy? You showed none to those who suffered by your hand, so you shall receive the same." Fengxian held out his halberd to Zenberu who took it away with due reverence. Kyuku then came forward and knelt next to the warlord while holding in his hands a monstrous crimson single-edged axe that pulsed with an eerie purple light, the Blood Sucking Meat Devourer which had been the weapon of choice of Ancient One, one of Ainz Ooal Gown's original members. Gripping the massive weapon with one hand, the Nephilim proceeded to deliver a series of precise yet excruciatingly painful cuts to Erya's body, starting by removing both of his arms and legs before moving on to his back. Each stroke was carefully delivered to inflict maximum pain without ending the vile man's life, and as Fengxian continued his macabre work Erya's screams filled the air around the chamber, echoing off the stone walls as he now got a taste of the pain he had inflicted upon his previous victims.
Once he was satisfied with his gruesome work, Fengxian stood up and, with a flick of his wrist, wiped the axe blade clean of blood before handing it back to Kyuku who reverently took it away. "This man," he proclaimed for everyone to hear, "is no longer a threat to anyone, especially yourselves. He is yours to do with as you see fit." The massive warlord then stepped aside, revealing the three elven slaves who had been silently watching all of this happen from the shadows without daring to lift a finger. Their eyes and expressions, once filled with fear, were now eerily empty and expressionless as they slowly advanced towards their incapacitated master, their shaking hands each clutching a wicked-looking knife handed to them by Sukyu.
"No, no, no…stop!" Any trace of Erya's former arrogance had long since been cast to the wind, replaced now by excruciating pain from what Fengxian had done to him as well as absolute terror as it dawned upon him what was about to happen. "Heal me! Please!" He begged, his voice now a pitiful whine. "I'll change, I promise! I'll never hurt any of you again!"
Unfortunately, his pleas fell on deaf ears as all three elves, driven by years of pent-up rage and suffering after all the abuse they had been put through by this pile of shit in the form of a human being, advanced on him with a vengeance and maniacal gleams in their eyes before proceeding to tear into him with a ferocity that matched all of the years they had suffered under his cruel thumb. Each blow, each strike, every droplet of blood was a cathartic release of their long years of torment as the room became filled once more with the sounds of Erya's screams as well as the slaves' cries of fury and relief, combined with tears of absolute joy streaming down their faces. Fengxian, Hamsuke and all of the Lizardmen watched on silently, bearing witness to the justice being served.
When it was over, Erya's mutilated and lifeless body lay in a pool of his own blood, a deserved fate for such a vile man. The elven slaves were standing over him, their breaths heavy with exertion and overwhelming relief while refusing to let go of the knives, coated in their former master's blood, in their trembling hands. With a wave of his hand, Fengxian directed Lumiere and her fellow Homunculus maids who had been waiting in the shadows to go and see to them. They would look after them and see that they were healed both physically and mentally before being released into Aura and Mare's care. As for the warlord, he took back his halberd from Zenberu before using his Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown to teleport away, leaving the Lizardmen and undead to clean up Erya's gruesome remains.
~TNT~
"How did we get here? Was it that magical trap we stood on?" Imina asked the rest of the group as they found themselves walking down another dark corridor surrounded on all sides by walls and pillars of stone.
"All I remember was the ground lighting up beneath our feet," Hekkeran replied as the four kept closely huddled together, not wanting to lose each other in this unfamiliar locale. "This place is different from everywhere else we've been so far."
"I know of a similar building in Arwintar." The rest of Foresight turned to look at Arche. "The Empire's Coliseum. It has similar underground entryways to this."
"Yeah, I see it too now that you mention it. And look." Roberdyck pointed to where an iron gate had suddenly appeared, beyond which lay what appeared to be the grounds of the mentioned area. "That leads to the arena itself."
"Looks like you're right, and since we were teleported here…that can only mean one thing. We're going to be part of the show, whether we like or not," Hekkeran surmised grimly. "Since there's nowhere else we can go but forward…we may as well get it over with." As they approached the gate it swung forward, admitting the party of four into the arena proper. But as they moved towards the centre of the massive open structure, they couldn't believe what they saw overheard. Instead of a stone ceiling as they'd been expecting, they were confronted by a picturesque starry night sky without a cloud in sight, a beautiful scene were it not for the grim reality of the situation. And rather than empty seats as they had first guessed, some of the stands were occupied by several strange beings including a small girl with white hair clad in a lavish purple ensemble, a robed pale-skinned figure and another young girl in a strange attire who was clutching onto what appeared to be a large brown leather bag.
"We're on the surface? How can this be?" Hekkeran wondered, echoing all of their thoughts.
"Does it matter? We've been given a way out. I can get us all out of here with flying magic so we need to-" Whatever Arche was about to say was cut off by a small cry and scuffle from nearby, and as they all turned to face the sound they were startled to see a small Dark Elf in a red shirt and a white-and-yellow jacket dusting itself off before facing them with an excited grin on its face. Before any of Foresight could speak up, the elf brought up a small golden microphone to its mouth and began speaking, her clear voice echoing all around them and drawing cheers from those assembled.
"Ladies, gentlemen and those to whom gender doesn't apply! Welcome to tonight's festivities!" Aura began, pulling off her best ring announcer voice which she'd spent days perfecting. "Our challengers tonight are a group of four human adventurers who have dared to infiltrate the hallowed halls of the Great Tomb of Nazarick! And against them, we have all three…yes, you all heard me right…all three of our glorious Supreme Beings!" The cheers grew even louder as Aura continued. "First, I present to you the Grand Marshal of Nazarick, the embodiment of martial prowess and unyielding strength, the warlord who stands invincible on the battlefield. LORD. FENGXIAN!"
One of the gates on the other side of the arena suddenly cranked open, and from its shadows stepped forth the towering Nephilim in his full battle regalia, exuding an aura of raw power and authority. The crowd erupted in fresh cheers, their admiration for their Grand Marshal evident in their fervour. Fengxian hardly acknowledged their cheers as he strode forward with grim purpose, the glowing red sockets of his helm locked firmly on the four members of Foresight who had visibly blanched upon seeing this massive armoured monstrosity walk towards them.
As Fengxian stopped on the other side of the centre of the arena from Foresight, Aura continued. "Next, we have the Crown Prince of Nazarick himself, a master strategist and a beacon of wisdom and majesty who will bring light and glory to the darkness and corruption of this world! Accompanied by his loyal and beautiful harem, Grand Overseer Albedo, Miss Solution Epsilon, Miss Lupusregina Beta and Miss Narberal Gamma, I present to you – the one, the only…CROWN! PRINCE! HENNNRRRYYYY!" (This would be the only time Aura would use the Crown Prince's first name instead of Lord Trajan)
The audience, which had been feverish for the Grand Marshal's arrival, positively erupted with noise as another of the arena's gates opened revealing the Crown Prince of Nazarick in his full suit of armour, his golden hair becoming messier in the refreshing night air as he began his regal march to the centre of the arena, his royal demeanour, commanding presence and majestic aura impossible to ignore. At his side and trailing behind him were all of his consorts, each garbed in their usual attire: Albedo, beauty and grace personified. Solution, the embodiment of sexual allure and icy-cold elegance. Lupusregina, her usual mischievous grin in place. And Narberal, exuding dignity and hidden regality despite her maid attire. As the group approached where Fengxian was currently standing the crowd's applause grew, if possible, even louder, a testament to the respect and reverence they held for their Master's heir. As Henry and his girls joined their comrade, Aura's voice then suddenly dropped down to a reverent whisper as she began to build the suspense for her final introduction.
"And now, the moment you have all been waiting for. The Greatest of the Supreme Beings! The Ruler of Nazarick! The Master of Death and the only being who deserves to be hailed as the master of this world! He Who Commands Us All and our Glorious Overlord! ALL RISE AND ACCLAIM HIM AS HE GRACES US WITH HIS GODLIKE PRESENCE! LORD! AINZ! OOAL! GOWN!"
The whole arena seemed to stand still in time and hitch its collective breath as the final arena gate opened, and from its depths emerged the dread visage of Ainz Ooal Gown himself, his skeletal form draped as always in robes of the deepest black and adorned with gold and crimson accents. His mere presence was a palpable force, radiating an overwhelming aura of dread and power which touched everyone, both ally and opponent alike, as he regally strode forward, the Staff of Ainz Ooal Gown clutched firmly in his right hand. And as he began to walk the crowd erupted into a thunderous ovation that vastly dwarfed the noise they had made for both the Grand Marshal and the Crown Prince. But upon reaching the centre of the arena and joining his comrades, all Ainz had to do was simply raise a hand and the cheers suddenly silenced, bringing an awe-struck hush over the arena as the crowd waited in anticipation for what was about to happen.
"Behold, the Supreme Beings of Nazarick, they whose power and wisdom will guide us to eternal glory!" Aura finished with a smile, overwhelmingly satisfied with the spectacle she had orchestrated as she proceeded to give the four dumbstruck and overwhelmed humans, who were only now fully comprehending the unparalleled might and power standing before them, a cheery wave and smile. "Good luck, humans! You're going to need it!" With those words she tossed the microphone in the air, gave a deep bow, caught it again as it fell and then leapt back into the stands next to Shalltear, leaving the four humans alone against the three most powerful beings to have ever existed in this world.
daniel: And we're done for today! Hope you guys enjoyed this! This is the price you pay for pure greed, sometimes you got to know where to cut your losses when you can. Especially loved the fate we inflicted on that garbage pile Erya.
And boy, Foresight is in HUGE trouble huh? You can rest easy, however. No spoilers, but the fate we have planned for them is NOTHING like the horrors they got in canon. Wish you all the best.
Edster: My co-author summed things up perfectly. As well as putting Erya through some extra pain, especially with the Blood Sucking Meat Devourer that needed its time to shine since we didn't get to it earlier, I also wanted to give CZ some extra spotlight and did she deliver with her pistol. And as with the last scene, I may have gone overboard with Aura's introductions but I do not care because I had so much fun with them. It's now 3 vs 4 with our three protags versus Foresight, but given their power the odds are in the favour of Ainz, Henry and Fengxian. Will Foresight get out of this alive? Or do our three have other plans for them?
The answers to those questions, along with the aftermath, will come in a fortnight's time with Chapter 31 of this tale. As always, both daniel and I cannot thank you enough for every single bit of love you have given this story so far, and we shall both see you in the next instalment of the Nazarick Triumvirate!
Also remember to keep updating the Nazarick Triumvirate TV Tropes page if you get inspired to do so!