Makings of an Overlord

by The Emerald Commander

Suzuki Satoru has no idea how to rule the Great Tomb of Nazarick, especially now that he has been transported to an entire new world as a human (kind of). However, he is going to give his all, no matter how much Albedo keeps trying to sleep with him, how much Demiurge wants to commit genocides and how much he wishes to date that cute peasant girl in the village nearby. Slight!AU

12. Chapter XI: the Emperor's Gambit

The Emperor's Gambit

Part I

The Baharuth Empire and the Re-Estize Kingdom had a long bloody history. One could have argued the relationship worsened in the last decade with the Annual Wars started by the latest Emperor. Regardless, the fact remained both nations had been at each other's throats right from the inception of the Kingdom. It couldn't have been more evident than in of the art in the Mayor's palace of E-Rantel.

Suzuki Satoru actually found the whole history between nations quite fascinating. As he strolled down the hallways, he examined the various pieces of art, all while his steps resonated on the pearl-white marble floor. He was by no means a connoisseur of art, but it wasn't hard to tell the amount of talent and skill involved in each painting and tapestry on the walls.

There were also trophies and relics, from old armors used back in the day to weaponry obtained from dead Baharuth soldiers. Much to his fascination, many had the same magical runes that had caught his fascination. Interestingly enough, the runes still glowed with power and suggested the enchantments were still fully functional.

According to what Pandora learned from Rahkeshir, dwarfish runes endure for centuries, differently from simple enchantments, recalled Suzuki. And yet, they are treated as outdated items…

In fact, Suzuki was surprised to learn noble families treated items with dwarfish runes more as heirlooms than as actually valuable equipment. Then again, since the alleged disappearance of the dwarves, rune items had grown too rare amongst the human nations.

The overlord paused at one of the paintings, a rather large one that covered a lot of the tall white wall. It showed a scene that was absolutely epic, with two massive armies charging from each side and meeting at the center. To the left, there were the red-clad warriors of the kingdom, a mishmash of barbarians and knights, and to the right were the blue-clad Baharuth soldiers.

Looking at the warrior depicted on the painting, Suzuki was reminded about the events of the previous night, when they had dealt with the army of undead. Needless to say, it had been quite an experience, one that had left Suzuki quite confident and delighted. He had, after all, used his own magic rather than the Staff's and had managed to come off as the savior of E-Rantel.

The decision to intervene in E-Rantel had come at a price, though. For better or for worse, Ainz Ooal Gown had become an official player in the game of nations. Lords and nobles would no longer dismiss Suzuki as a rumor, and his actions on E-Rantel would produce large waves in comparison to the ripples caused after saving Carne Village.

For the most part, Suzuki didn't regret the decision. He had wanted to avoid all the political drama, but he had come to terms that that was a fools' errand. If he intended to be a proper Overlord for his people, then he needed to play the game of politics.

There was only one regret that gnawed at Suzuki, though.

Why did I ride Hamsuke? Mentally groaned Suzuki. What will rumors say about me now? The Great Lord Ainz Ooal Gown… rider of fluffy rodents.

He sighed and shook his head.

Next time, I'll show up on a dragon. You just can't not look cool on a dragon, decided Suzuki, before humming and stroking his chin. The Azerlisia Mountains had Frost Dragons if I am not mistaken… maybe I could capture and induct one?

Suzuki glanced at his companions Rubedo and Sebas behind him. Much like him, Sebas appeared to be appraising the art… although Suzuki had his suspicions that the Head Butler might have also been checking the cleanliness of the place. Rubedo, on the other hand, appeared to ignore everything around her, keeping a careful eye on their surroundings. However, Suzuki was sure he caught her shooting glances at the painting of the battle.

"Lord Ainz!"

Suzuki turned to a side, and smiled.

"Sir Aindra, how nice to see you," he greeted with a nod.

Clad in her usual blue and golden armor and followed by her floating swords, Sir Lakyus Aindra smiled back as she walked over to him. Right behind her was Tina the red-clad ninja.

"Likewise, your lordship," said the knight. "What brings you here?"

"Sir Ainzach actually," said Suzuki. "He wanted to discuss a few important matters…"

More like he's begging me to run the place, thought a morose Suzuki.

Suzuki couldn't blame the knight. In one single night, the Mayor and all of his trusted officials had been murdered in cold blood. Ainzach had been left as the sole top official and named the Seneschal of E-Rantel by the King. However, the knight had no idea how to run a fortress city, and that was without adding to his already stressful duties.

To make matters worse, Ainzach didn't trust any other noble or merchant, and for good reason. Many were still under suspicion for being in league with Eight Fingers, were plain incompetent fools or were less than trust-worthy. With the Head Mage being less than useful, Ainzach had gone to the one lord he had fought alongside with: Lord Ainz Ooal Gown.

Why me? I am a foreign enigmatic lord with demons, vampires and other monsters! Why would anyone just trust me with an entire city? Wondered Suzuki.

He quickly remembered the state of the Kingdom, and mentally swore.

Of course, it is my luck to be handed over a city… urgh, never mind. This is for the good of the Tomb, Suzuki. Just… run with it. It won't be that much of a problem, though, right? I mean, the king will name a Mayor any day soon. He won't delay… right? Mentally prayed Suzuki. Still, I could dump some responsibilities on someone else…

"Say, Sir Aindra, you are a noblewoman, aren't you?" Innocently asked Suzuki.

"Yes, your lordship," said Lakyus. "Why do you ask?"

"Oh, I was merely wondering if you had skills running a state, like maybe a fortress… or a city… maybe a fortress city?" Wondered Suzuki.

To his complete confusion, Sir Aindra's face lit up with an intense shade of red and averted her eyes.

Is she flustered? Wondered Suzuki, only to shake his head. No, she must be acting all cutesy to seduce me… yes, that must be it.

If only he had known what she was thinking…

Oh Gods, does that mean he wants me to manage an evil castle filled with evil minions? Do I get my own badass spiky black armor as Dark Lady or something? I mean, my parents did teach me how to manage a household as a potential wife but… No, I can't fall to temptation. I mean, I shall not fall for your machinations, Kilineiram! Thought a blushing Lakyus.

"I – ehm – yes, I guess I do know how to run a castle," mumbled Lakyus.

A castle? Thought a confused Suzuki.

"That's good, I suppose," slowly said Suzuki. "Then perhaps you could assist Sir Ainzach in his new role as seneschal."

"Ainzach?" Asked Lakyus, blankly blinking at him with the utmost confusion.

"Yes, the Head Knight?" slowly said Suzuki.

"I suppose I could assist him," said Lakyus. "I was meaning to see him anyway…"

"Oh? Did something happen at the temple of the God of Water?"

"A few issues," replied Lakyus. "We are lacking in healers. The few remaining priests at the temple have all run out of mana and there are still plenty of people to heal, bodies to be prepared for burial and a lot more to do."

"The temple suffered losses last night?" Asked Suzuki with a frown.

He had thought the priesthood hadn't intervened during the battle. If anything, he had been under the impression that they had waited the fight out.

"I'm afraid so," sighed Lakyus.

"How many healers do you think would be needed?" Wondered Suzuki. "I could try to contact any wandering healers, druids and wood witches from the villages to assist E-Rantel."

"Would you really do that?" Gasped Lakyus only to grin. "That was much appreciated, your lordship. I suppose a couple dozen people with healing spells would suffice." She gave a sheepish smile. "I don't think the Temple will be that pleased, though…"

Suzuki could understand why. The priesthood held a monopoly in healing and removing curses within the city. At least, they used to…

"It can't be helped," stated Suzuki. "The people require assistance."

"Well said, your lordship," said Lakyus with an approving nod. "But still, I rather not impose. I'm sure I can arrange something with Sir Ainzach."

"It really won't be much of an issue," mused Suzuki. "Sir Ainzach has already asked me to speak with the chieftains and village chiefs to see if they could spare warriors. There were many losses last night, after all."

"Indeed, we lost too many good men," commented a sorrowful Lakyus. "The Knights of Kralgra, and many Skywolf Knights and Knights of the Rainbow, without mentioning the brave huscarls that gave their lives…"

"Like the Swords of Darkness," said Suzuki.

"Yes, they too," softly said Lakyus. "They will be missed."

Suzuki just nodded. He stroke his chin as he remembered that he had yet to decide the fact of the zombies who used to be that group of warriors. A part of him felt compelled to repay Ninya, being his first mentor of magic, but he wanted to do so in such a way that would best benefit the Tomb of Nazarick.

It was as he thought of Ninya that the overlord was reminded of something important.

"Have you had any luck in your investigation?" Suzuki asked.

"I'm afraid not," said Lakyus with a weary smile. "No one knew anything at the temple."

"So we still have no idea who or why those cultists did what they did?" Summarized Suzuki.

He had been tempted on gathering information from the zombies of the cultists themselves, particularly the scantily-clad female warrior and the head cultist, but that meant using the [Throne of Kings], and Suzuki was hesitant on wasting precious Yggdrassil gold without good reason. He wouldn't just waste it on a pair of madmen. Still, Suzuki wouldn't have minded to gain new teachers, perhaps in the area of necromancy. Moreover, there was no telling what valuable information they could hold…

"Actually, my liege suspects this group belonged to a certain infamous organization," said Lakyus.

She looked at him rather hesitantly, as if unsure whether to share in the information, albeit for a short moment.

"Zurrernon."

Suzuki raised an eyebrow and stroke his chin.

"Zurrernorn," Suzuki repeated, testing the name in his lips. "I may have heard that name before…"

Probably inside one of Demiurge's many reports. Urgh, I have yet to reward the information-gathering team, mentally groaned Suzuki, struggling to keep a grimace from forming. Maybe something simple, like a tea with them?

He shuddered as an image of Neuornist and Kyouhukou crossed his mind. He quickly pushed down his disgust and admonished himself. Suzuki was their master and they were driving themselves ragged for him; the least he could do was spend time and be respectful towards them.

"I wouldn't be surprised, your lordship," said Lakyus. "Zurrernorn has been causing trouble for some time now, and not only in the Kingdom. It is a death cult of sorts, one dead set on wreaking havoc and destruction, and one which, unfortunately, has spread all across the human realms."

"All they want is to spread death?" Wondered Suzuki.

"Apparently," grunted Lakyus. "I don't think anyone actually knows for sure. The organization is divided in separate groups, isolated from each other, and the lower members know very little about Zurrernorn outside their own group."

Sound like the Eco-Terrorists and their many cells back on Earth, thought Suzuki.

"What little we know comes from a small group my comrades and I captured a couple of years ago. They were led by a warlock named Hell-Raiser… who unfortunately escaped that night. That particular group had been researching the summoning of demons using bodies of kidnapped citizens," explained Lakyus.

"They wished to summon demons into people?" Wondered a confused Suzuki.

"No, our theory is that they wanted to try make summoned demons permanent by using a body," said Lakyus. "Like when you summon undead using a corpse."

Wait, if one uses an actual corpse to create an undead they become permanent? Thought a shocked Suzuki. Now that was a very interesting piece of information to keep in mind.

"I see," hummed Suzuki, trying very hard not to sound too interested in such heinous experiments. "Did they have any success?"

"Sadly, they did," said Lakyus. "They had managed to make permanent imps and were half-way with Gazer Devils. Think we caught them right when they were working on wolves and dogs to try to create Hellhounds."

They were trying to build an army of demons, realized Suzuki. Could they have been trying the same thing as in E-Rantel?

Suddenly, that organization, Zurrernorn, sounded much more of a nuisance than before.

"That sounds concerning," remarked Suzuki. "And you said the leader of that group escaped?"

"Yes, she was able to summon a huge powerful demon to keep us distracted," said Lakyus, visibly frustrated by that memory. "We have no idea where she went. As far as we know, she might have restarted her experiments and could be at the cusp of unleashing a demon army at any moment…"

She gave Suzuki a sheepish smile, all while scratching her head.

"I guess it's a good thing you are around, your lordship," said Lakyus with a faint blush on her cheeks.

Oh, she's good at this seduction business, conceded Suzuki, but I will not be seduced so easily!

Suzuki wasn't going to deny she definitely looked cute at the moment. However, two could play the same game.

"I am more than happy to be of help, Sir Aindra…"

…for a price, mentally finished Suzuki.

Just for the occasion, the overlord deployed a practiced lordly smile. Apparently, practicing in front of the mirror had paid off, and for once Suzuki was glad he actually had a face to gesticulate with.

His words had the desired effect, with Lakyus' smile widening and cutely looking away. Clearly, she was good at acting.

"Please, your lordship, call me Lakyus," said the knight with a disarming smile.

Ha! Your feminine wiles shall not work on me, Holy Warrior! Thought Suzuki.

"Then please, call me Ainz," he softly said.

Just for the occasion, Ainz decided to make use of a practiced confident yet friendky smirk of his, one he had perfected back in his chambers to give an air of grandeur (no great Overlord should leave his lair without one, after all).

"Very well, Ainz," said Lakyus.

Although she appeared seemingly unaffected, her inner thoughts told another story.

Ha! Your Evil Charms shall not work on me, Dark Lord! Thought Lakyus.

So there they were, overlord and knight, obliviously smirking at each other. The Staff of Ainz Ooal Gown and Kilineiram the Demon Sword, on their part, gave their best equivalent of sighs of exasperation. Tina, Sebas and Rubedo exchanged looks, before they went back to watching the spectacle unfold.

"In any case, we have yet to confirm this was Zurrernorn," sighed Lakyus. "The Kingdom is no stranger to cults, unfortunately. There's always a crazy religion that pops up every now and then, especially in the more isolated villages…" she lowered her voice, speaking under her breath "…without mentioning the degenerate cults of noblemen."

Suzuki was sorely tempting on asking the knight about that last part. He abstained, however. Given the sorts of things that took place in various raided establishments of Eight Fingers, Suzuki had a good picture on what she had meant.

"It's a real pity the cultists' ritual backfired and were turned into zombies last night," said Lakyus. "Had the ritual just killed them, perhaps I could have managed to resurrect one of them for questioning with [Raise Dead]."

"Oh? You can cast that Fifth Tier Spell?" Suzuki asked, impressed.

Lakyus' face burst into a bright blush as she smiled.

"Just that one," mumbled Lakyus, trying (and failing) to act composed.

"Still, that's quite impressive," said Suzuki. "In fact, it would appear you are quite an impressive individual, particularly if we factor in that sword of yours, the legendary blade Kilineiram…"

Needless to say, Suzuki's inner collector had been roused.

"Yes, the Demonic Sword," said Lakyus with gravitas.

"Demonic Sword?" Repeated Suzuki with a raised eyebrow. "What a curious title. Why it's called that?"

Back in Yggdrassil, although many weapons and equipment had useless flashy names that had nothing to do with the item itself, the name generally hinted at some power or requirement of said thing.

Instead of answering to what Suzuki had expected to be an innocuous question, if perhaps not a nosy one, Lakyus' eyes widened and her face lit up.

"N-no good reason! I mean, it definitively doesn't mean the sword has a demonic nature and wants to corrupt me into becoming evil or anything!" Spluttered a flustered Lakyus.

"Eh… pardon?" Suzuki said.

"Nothing!" Lakyus laughed in an exaggerated manner.

Suzuki stared at Lakyus. The knight stared back. Rubedo and Sebas, in turn, wondered what was going on. Tina, on her part, face-palmed.

As if the conversation wasn't weird enough, Lakyus took a moment to glare at Kilineiram. Suzuki stared at her, utterly dumbfounded.

Is it just me or is Lakyus giving off chuunibyou vibes right now? Suzuki asked the Staff of Ainz Ooal Gown.

The weapon, in turn, gave its best equivalent to a shrug.

I guess it is my imagination, thought Suzuki with a snort of amusement.

Abruptly, the embarrassed knight changed the subject, all while clearing her throat and blushing.

"B-B-By the way, the Princess wanted to know whether you had any news on the Great Shadow," Lakyus said.

The Great-? Oh, crap! Thought Suzuki, I forgot all about that!

And indeed, word had spread across the Kingdom that some evil entity was riling up the denizens of the Forest of Tob. In fact, that reminded Suzuki there was still a huge demi-human alliance that was growing within the Forest of Tob and that promised to be a real issue (for the Kingdom mostly). Of course, the real problem would have been if the Kingdom started blaming Suzuki and his people for the entire mess.

"I-I have my people searching for it," croaked a greatly embarrassed Suzuki, clearing his throat and looking away. "Worry not! My servants are scouring the forest as we speak. If we learn anything, I shall inform the royal family right away."

Oh, how embarrassing… how could I have forgotten? I should seriously do something about that pesky Forest Alliance before it grows into more of a nuisance, mentally grumbled Suzuki.

"That-That would be much appreciated," said a still embarrassed Lakyus.

Knight and Overlord averted their gazes, focusing on the painting next to them instead. They didn't speak, and rather acted as if, indeed, the painting had suddenly caught their interest. However, Suzuki refused to act like some foolish highschooler and, thus, cleared his throat and spoke up.

"What an – eh – interesting painting," remarked Suzuki.

"Yes, very," eagerly nodded Lakyus.

"Do you know what battle it depicts?" Wondered Suzuki.

"I don't, sadly," replied Lakyus. "It's safe to assume where it took place, though."

"The Katze Plains," hummed the overlord.

Have the Kingdom and Empire ever fought elsewhere? Wondered Suzuki.

"The Cursed Plains," said Lakyus. "A place that has seen so much death, it is a natural spawning ground for the undead…"

The natural spawning of undead was something Suzuki had only learned about recently and had left him quite puzzled. It wasn't helped by the lack of any explanations from the New Worlders, who had suffered the phenomena for centuries. The fact that there appeared to be an exponential effect, with more powerful undead spawning were plenty of weaker ones gathered, was just as ridiculous in Suzuki's mind as their spontaneous spawning.

On the other hand, Suzuki did discover the economic opportunities of that natural phenomena. After all, the spontaneously spawned undead all appeared to be recognized as Yggdrassil creatures by the [Throne of Kings] and could thus be inducted and recycled for Yggdrassil gold. Sadly, it wasn't much since all undead that naturally appeared were weak, and they would inevitably pile up quite a stack of nearly useless data crystals.

Maybe if I let the Empire and Kingdom duke it out a couple more years stronger undead will start appearing, mused Suzuki, stroking his chin as a smirk stretched on his face. And the stronger the undead that spawn, the more gold I'll get when I recycle them…

His thoughts were interrupted by someone shouting down the corridor.

"M-My Lord! Sir!"

The group all turned their heads to see a red-faced guardsman hurrying over to them. He looked like he had been running for a while.

"Sir Ainzach requests your presence!" Exclaimed the soldier.

Suzuki and Lakyus exchanged frowns before addressing the newcomer.

"Has something happened?" Asked Lakyus.

"Yes, Sir," replied the guardsman. "We've been contacted by the Baharuth Empire!"

Lakyus stiffened and her face soured. Suzuki, on his part, raised an eyebrow at the messenger. A part of him dreaded the upcoming complications and headaches that would no doubt arise, and yet he felt mostly intrigued.

The Empire has finally made its move, thought Suzuki. I wonder what the Emperor has in mind…

---

While a certain Overlord went to meet with Sir Ainzach, something else was taking place in the underbelly of E-Rantel. Hidden from the world above, and secretly connected to the sewers, there was a large rock chamber. It was an ancient hall of sorts, as old as E-Rantel itself, designed as a rally point for any defenders if the city was ever taken. At the moment, though, it was a battlefield.

"[Crystal Daggers]!" Cried out Evil-Eye.

The elder lich flying in front of her shot off to a side, dodging the crystalline blades that had materialized mid-air. The projectiles struck the old walls behind, burying themselves deep in the stone. The sound of impact, though, was barely audible over the screams and cacophony of combat below the two mages. Evil-Eye swore and pursued her target, soaring over the mayhem around her with the [Fly] spell.

She glanced around, taking in the surrounding chaos beneath the dim light of the orange magic crystals above them. Just the glowing dwarfish runes etched on said light sources alone were a clear hint to that chamber's ancient history. Beneath their glow, faint from centuries of life, humans clad as brigands and criminals fought against the combined might of raging knights and the full horrors of Lord Ainz's monstrous warrior wives.

In the penumbra and chaos, any normal human would have found it near impossible to tell apart the humans from the monsters. Helmets shaped after animals, like those of the surviving Sky Wolves, merged with the shadows and appeared to take a life of their own. Vengeful huscarls looked closer to beastmen in their battle-frenzy, slashing and roaring at the under-prepared opponents.

A loud roar drew Evil-Eye's attention. At the center of the large hall, Warrior Gagaran was swinging her War-Pick, a maniacal grin stretched across her face, making her look closer to a demon than a human. Each time she delivered a blow, another man was killed and blood splatted on the floor. Dancing amongst the shadows, Tia was but a deadly blur, leaving gurgling enemies holding their bleeding necks anywhere she dashed through.

Truly, it was in times like those Evil-Eye was reminded that humans, for all their weakness in comparison to demi-humans, could be just as brutal and monstrous.

Evil-Eye, though, wasn't human, and she was quick to spot the true non-humans in the crowd regardless of the penumbra. Lady Yuri was stoically exchanging blows with a huge muscular bald man with animal tattoos, who in turn was growing frantic the more he realized how outmatched he was against her. Lady Entoma was giggling and laughing, pursuing a heavily armored man who wielded some weird whip-like sword, while Lady Lupusregina was playing around with a shady looking rogue that wore a hood and kept trying to use illusions to no avail.

Flashes of bright light drew Evil-Eye's gaze towards Lady Shizu, who was using her weird ranged weapon to was emotionlessly shoot at flying scimitars. Meanwhile, a scantily clad woman (perhaps the sole woman on the side of the brigands) desperately threw everything she could at Lady Shizu.

Evil-Eye regretted checking on Lady Solution, who had finally caught up to his target. The man had been some arrogant flashy dressed man with a rapier. Now, though, only his legs were visibly, flailing in horrifying desperation as his body buried itself deeper into the scary warrior-wife's body. To make matters worse, Lady Solution cackled with glee, clearly enjoying her target's fear. The knights and huscarls of E-Rantel, though, appeared to ignore her, although Evil-Eye suspected they were blinded by their bloodlust and dismissed all nightmarish sights as a trick of the poor lighting.

The petite vampire shuddered and focused on her target. At last, Evil-Eye corned the crimson-robed elder lich. The undead looked quite worried, particular given how he couldn't escape and how the battle was going. He spun around, revealing the dry corpse-like flesh of his face, and desperately launched spells at Evil-Eye.

"[Electrosphere]!" Shouted the elder lich. "[Fireball]!"

Balls of lightning appeared on the lich's palms before he threw them at the petite caster, followed by a radiant sphere of flames.

"[Crystal Wall]!" Responded the vampire.

Both lightning and fire met a diamond-like barrier, exploding into a large cloud of smoke and sparks. Before the elder lich could react, Evil-Eye flew upwards over the summoned wall and finished the fight with one last spell.

"[Acid Splash]!"

The elder lich had no time to react as he was showered by a fuming acrid green liquid. The undead caster barely managed to release a sound before he collapsed back. He dropped like a potato sack, right on top of yet more bandits and criminals. The humans, on their part, screamed in pain as the rest of the green liquid fell on them.

Evil-Eye flew down on the stone floor and studied her handiwork. She scrunched her face at the disgusting stench of what used to be an elder lich and humans. The [Acid Splash] had unfortunately affected more than its intended target. It was an area spell, after all, so humans, crates and items lying around had all been washed in the acid pool, rising a nauseating smell.

"Mercy! Please, mercy!"

Evil-Eye turned around, only to discover most of the fighting had ended. Amidst piles of corpses, knights clad in blood-covered plate armor and nightmarish-looking huscarls loomed over surrendering humans. Her crimson eyes fell on a particularly muscular warrior, clad in chainmail and with a huge axe in one hand. He was glaring murderously at a fat bare-chested man, who shook on his knees. The difference in equipment was telling; whereas one had been sworn to a lord, the other had been little better than a brigand.

"I-I surrender!"

"Surrender? Mercy? You Eight Finger scum don't deserve life," growled the huscarl, a mad glint in his eyes. "Vermin, all of you! Cowering down here while our brethren died defending the living… you're little better than rats!"

"No, please!"

The huscarl raised its axe and slashed downwards. The surrendering prisoner screamed. The axe swished across the air and then…

Silence.

The surrounding warriors and Evil-Eye blinked in surprise. The axe had never reached its target. Rather, it had been stopped by a petite woman. Blonde and dressed in a strange formal dress, the culprit's glowing crimson eyes shone with amusement. Evil-Eye, though, stared at the axe, or rather the fingernail that had easily stopped the blow.

"Lady Shalltear," said the huscarl in shock, stepping back. "I didn't-"

Lady Shalltear tutted admonishingly before saying something in God-Speech.

"Mistress Shalltear wishes to remind you all we are meant to deliver as many living prisoners as possible," croaked a voice.

Evil-Eye turned to the cloaked form of Elion the Lesser Vampire. Hooded and with only the two glowing eyes visible, he melded well with the shadows.

"Understood, my lady," grumbled the huscarl, before stepping back and bowing to the vampire.

The fat prisoner behind Shalltear sighed in relief, before smiling.

"Oh, thank you! Thank you, my lady," panted the man.

Shalltear turned around to the prisoner, who immediately stared in horror. A predatory smirk stretched across her face, a twisted sadism emanating from her youthful face. Evil-Eye didn't need to understand God-Speech to know her following playful words would invite pain and suffering.

"Death, after all, is too good for such lesser beings," translated Elion.

Grins and smirks of satisfaction stretched across the faces of knights and huscarls alike.

"Gather the prisoners," commanded Shalltear through Elion.

That broke the knights and huscarls from standing around and got down to work. Evil-Eye ignored her surroundings, choosing to walk over to Gagaran and Tia. The huge woman sat on a pile of corpses, taking a swig from a waterskin, while Tia inspected her knives.

"What a fight," mused Gagaran with a grin. "Ain't that right, Shorty?"

Evil-Eye merely grunted.

"Oy, don't give me that. Cheer up, shorty!" Laughed Gagaran. "Bah, suit yourself…" She looked around, only to sigh tiredly. "Come, guys, there's still stuff to do here."

Without another word, Gagaran stood up, war-pick on her shoulder, and strode over to the center of the chamber. Tia and Evil-Eye silently followed close behind. There, waiting for them, were human prisoners on their knees, bloodied warriors of E-Rantel prowling around like ravenous wolves and Lord Ainz's warrior wives. However, Evil-Eye's attention fell on Lady Shalltear.

"So… what now?" Asked Gagaran.

All heads turned to Lady Shalltear, who daintily smiled at them. Her crimson eyes swept across the humans, only to linger on Evil-Eye. Her smile widened and a shiver went down Evil-Eye's back. She didn't like the glint in those blood-red eyes.

"Lady Shalltear says the prisoners should be taken away to the city's dungeon," translated Elion.

Shalltear pointed at four prisoners in particular, a smirk in place, and said something else.

"Not those four. They shall be presented to Lord Ainz at the Mayor's palace."

It wasn't lost to Evil-Eye that the chosen prisoners were the ones who had fought against Lord Ainz' warrior wives.

Lady Shalltear looked around and lazily turned to a side. A huge void formed mid-air, opening up into darkness itself. Standing to a side, Lady Shalltear gestured at it.

"Oh well, to the Eternal Night it is," laughed Gagaran.

She grabbed a pair of prisoners by the scruff of their necks and stomped over to the portal. Gagaran hesitated briefly before grinning with bravado and marching through, straight into the mouth of darkness. Soon after, humans and some of the warrior-wives followed suit. They would march in with a prisoner in their grasp, only to back out from the void, empty-handed.

Evil-Eye stood to a side, watching as prisoners were taken away. She didn't get to stand alone, though. While everyone was busy, Shalltear walked over to her, a parasol over her shoulder and humming a merry tune. Looming over her shoulder was Elion, who glared pointedly at Evil-Eye.

Thankfully, Shalltear didn't say anything, preferring to be there in amicable silence. Evil-Eye, on her part, wished the other vampire didn't stand so close to her. Side by side, they watched the bloodied warriors finish their job, before the chamber was nearly empty, except for gore and carnage.

Evil-Eye studied the dark portal with no small amount of awe, and jealousy. She wished she could muster such powerful means of transport. True, she had mastered teleportation magic, but Evil-Eye could tell that the dark portal was on a level she could only dream of.

Is this the power only achievable by servants of Lord Ainz? Wondered Evil-Eye.

Before long, only Lord Ainz's warrior wives and a handful of knights remained, standing guard around four important prisoners. The first dark portal closed, only for a second one to take its place.

"Shall we?" Said Elion for his mistress.

The four prisoners were picked up and dragged forward. Evil-Eye was about to follow after Lady Yuri, who carried the big muscular opponent of hers, when she felt someone grab her hand. She spun around, only to find Shalltear smirking at her.

"My mistress says you have some blood on your mask," said Elion.

It was Evil-Eye's only warning. One moment the petite mage was frowning, the next a smirking Shalltear was leaning over her face. Evil-Eye could only stare, frozen, as a long tongue slithered out of Shalltear's lips and expertly licked the mask. Shalltear didn't lean away straight away. Instead, she stood there, her face close to Evil-Eye's, with a smug face, before giggling and marching off.

Evil-Eye remained rooted in place, unsure how she was supposed to react. Shalltear went in front of the portal and then winked at the mage, before stepping through. Elion, right behind his mistress, gave Evil-Eye one final warning squint of his eyes and disappeared into the portal.

A dumbstruck Evil-Eye tried to make sense of what had just happened, before giving a scoff of disgust. She was definitively not flustered. Absolutely not. And blushing. She was not blushing…

To Evil-Eye's horror, Gagaran and Tia stood there, staring at her. They looked just as shocked as Evil-Eye, but the petite mage could see the twinkle in their eyes and the way their lips were forming into teasing smirks. Evil-Eye pulled her hood over her mask (definitively not flustered! At all!) and hurried into the dark portal.

"Do not say a word," growled Evil-Eye as she passed in front of Gagaran.

The large woman, though, had a huge face-splitting grin. Evil-Eye mentally groaned, knowing she wouldn't hear the end of it.

She walked out of the dark portal, right into a large chamber she recognized immediately: the aptly called throne room. It was a massive white marble hall, with stained glass on each side. At the far end was a wood simple chair Lord Rettenmair had used to listen to petitioners, from noblemen to peasants. No one sat on it at the moment. Instead, three individuals stood in front of it.

"Fearless leader!" Called Gagaran, "and Lord Ainz! Nice to see you… oh, and you too, Ainzach."

The three in turn gave a long tired sigh in perfect unison, as if already tired of Gagaran exuberant personality.

"And who, pray tell, are these people?" Asked Ainzach.

The head knight looked terrible, with large dark circles on his eyelids and a shadow clinging to his eyes. He was still wearing his armor, and a hand remained on the hilt of his sword, ever ready to fight.

Lady Shalltear daintily stepped forward, curtsied and spoke, only to be translated by Elion behind her.

"My lord, Sir Ainzach, and Sir Aindra, my mistress wishes to inform you that we have captured the ones responsible for the murder of the late Mayor, Lord Rettenmaier," proclaimed Elion.

Ainzach straightened up and Lakyus' eyes threatened to pop out in disbelief. Elion dramatically gestured at the four prisoners.

"Six Arms!"

"Impossible," whispered Ainzach. "That can't be true…"

"Six Arms?" Repeated Lakyus, dumbfounded. "But…? What are they doing here?"

Shalltear addressed Lord Ainz, looking a bit nervous. Lord Ainz smiled and replied something, only for Shalltear to squeal in glee and hurry over to Lord Ainz, throwing herself at him. Lady Rubedo and Lord Sebas, who stood further to a side, didn't look amused by the vampire's antics, especially not when Shalltear started nuzzling against Lord Ainz's chest, clinging tightly to the dark lord.

A pang of jealousy jolted in Evil-Eye's heart as Lord Ainz chuckled and ruffled Shalltear's head, before wrapping an arm around her shoulders. Shalltear, on her part, looked extremely happy.

"This can't be possible," mumbled Ainzach. "Why would Six Arms kill my liege?"

"Why don't we ask them?" Lakyus wondered. She turned to Evil-Eye. "Charm the big one."

Said muscular man smirked. Evil-Eye squinted at the brute, and tried a charming spell, only to discover he remained unaffected. The petite mage swore. She hated when she came across someone with resistance to mind-affecting spells. Oh well, that meant they would only have to put some effort into it…

"You'll have to do better than that," laughed the big man.

"Oh, that's going to be our pleasure," mused Gagaran.

"Huh?"

That was all the brute managed to say before the warrior woman grabbed the man's bald head and smacked him against the floor. Gagaran lifted his head, only to expose his neck, where Tina stabbed three long poisoned needles called senbons.

"[Resist Weakening]," casted Evil-Eye. "[Charm Person]."

Thankfully, it didn't take more coercion before the big brute fell under Evil-Eye's control.

"Sorry about that, Sir," said an unapologetic Gagaran to Sir Ainzach. "We'd have offered tea as well, but that would have been a waste…"

Lakyus covered her face with a palm, while Lord Ainz and Sir Ainzach turned towards her, eager to learn the story behind such words.

"Enough fun," muttered Evil-Eye as she stepped forward.

She paused dramatically, not before stealing a glance at Lord Ainz, who was still holding onto a smirking Shalltear. Of course, it wasn't like Evil-Eye wanted to impressed the dark lord or anything… of course not.

"Oy, you, big brute. What's your name?"

The muscular man looked at her with a groggy, drunken smile, all while blood dripped from his broken nose. Any man under the [Charm Person] spell, usually looked at the caster with a rather friendly demeanor. Coming from such a scary brute, though, his demeanor was anything but friendly.

"Me? You can call me Zero," said the man.

"Zero, huh? You're from Six Arms?"

"Ha! Of course, I am! I'm the bloody leader," boasted Zero. "Not only that, but I'm the boss of Eight Fingers' security department."

Alright, this is going to be easier than I thought, mused Evil-Eye with a smirk.

There was nothing like an arrogant ass under a [Charm Person] spell to get them talking.

"Impressive. What about those guys? Are they from Six Arms too?" Evil-Eye asked.

Zero glanced at the other prisoners, still smiling. Said prisoners, in turn, looked horrified as their leader spilled all their secrets.

"Yeah, some of the best killers I got my hands on: Edström, Succulent and Peshurian. Never thought we'd all be defeated…"

"Impossible," repeated a disbelieving Ainzach. "What are you doing here?"

"And who would you be, old timer?" Mockingly taunted Zero. "Let me guess, some dog for that pig of a Mayor, aren't you? Yeah, look at you… you are the sort to grovel to nobility rather than stand up on his two feet like a true warrior."

"He won't answer you, Sir," Lakyus told Ainzach.

"I know that," sighed Ainzach with a nod and somewhat ashamed for his impatience. "Please, if you wouldn't mind, Evil-Eye…"

"Right. Oy, Zero, what are you doing here? You're far away from Re-Estize," said Evil-Eye.

"Far? Ha, that's putting it nicely. Never thought I'd put a foot in this sticking backwater city," scoffed Zero, grinning at Evil-Eye. "But hey, this is where we are needed. The leaders of the other departments were wetting themselves when they heard about some charlatan called Ainz Ooal Gown."

"You came here because of Lord Ainz?" Asked a disbelieving Evil-Eye.

"Yes, although the thing that got all of Eight Fingers riled up was when some guys and Brain Unglaus vanished. There were other lads in the area that also vanished, but nothing worried the other leaders more than Brain's group being whisked away. Like, seriously, THE Brain Unglaus just disappearing? And no one knew who or what got to him?

"We all decided my guys and I would come here and wait until we got a read on that Ainz Ooal Gown. We had some of our people at the Gathering that happened in some dingy far away village, and we all waited to hear if that guy was the real deal," explained Zero.

He must love the sound of his voice, thought Evil-Eye. After all, she couldn't recall someone under the [Charm Person] spell who had spoken so much unbidden.

"Ask him," demanded Ainzach, an edge in his voice as he glared at Zero.

Evil-Eye didn't need to know what question he was alluding to.

"Did you kill Lord Rettenmaier?"

"The fat pig?" Zero said, a sadistic smirk stretching on his face. "Yeah… we made the pig squeal. Ha! Him and the others present, whoever they were."

Sir Ainzach gritted his teeth and clenched the hilt of his sword, ready to slay Zero on the spot.

"Why?" Asked Evil-Eye.

"Payback," laughed Zero, "and business."

"What do you mean?"

"We were already planning on sending a message to the king for messing with Eight Fingers. However, yesterday we got a message from one of the department leaders. Someone in the royal family wanted the pig dead," said Zero.

Lakyus and Ainzach glared at the brute, while Lord Ainz hummed, stroking his chin.

"Who?" Evil-Eye asked. "Do you know who in the royal family wanted Mayor Rettenmaier dead?"

"Who else?" Mused Zero. "Prince Barbro."

Silence.

Evil-Eye looked at Lakyus as a myriad of emotion crossed her face. There was anger, disappointment, then concern. Ainzach's face, though, only went from red to puce with anger.

"That bastard," growled Ainzach. "I will skewer that royal son of-!"

"Sir!" Exclaimed Lakyus. "You speak treason."

"And I shall commit it once I get my hands on that-"

"Good Sirs."

Both Lakyus and Ainzach visibly calmed down and turned to Lord Ainz, who remained contemplative.

"Please, let us not be hasty. Acting rashly rarely helps," he said. "We already have our plates full with the Imperial delegation."

"Delegation? What delegation?" Asked Gagaran.

"The Empire wants to send a small group over to discuss some important matters," said Lakyus. "Or at least, that's what they claim." She turned to Ainzach. "Lord Ainz is right. We must act with caution and inform the Princess and the King. Perhaps if we send one of these prisoners-"

"And then what?" Snarled Ainzach. "The king will never believe his son was behind my liege's death!"

"He's not wrong, but at least if the court gets wind of this, Barbro will lose backing for the throne," said Gagaran. "Although that we'll leave that pretty boy, Pespea, as sole candidate…"

"I do believe perhaps we should first finish interrogating the prisoners," remarked Lord Ainz. "[Charm Person] doesn't last forever…"

"Yes, of course," grumbled Ainzach. "Let us resume."

"What should I ask next?" Wondered Evil-Eye.

"Ask him if he is targeting anyone else," proposed Tia.

"There's no telling if we caught all his goons today and they might be after other people," added Tina.

That seemed like a good question, and thus Evil-Eye relied it.

Just when they thought things couldn't get more complicated, Zero's smile widened and a greedy glint flashed across his droopy gaze.

"Yeah, we are after you and your girlfriends," said Zero.

"Me? You mean… the Knights of the Blue Rose?" Asked the petite mage.

"The one and only," snickered Zero. "There's a nice bounty on your heads," said Zero. His eyes turned to Lakyus, leering at the holy warrior. "Especially on her… a hundred thousand gold, alive…" he went back to grinning at Evil-Eye "…by the Slane Theocracy."

Once again there was only silence.

Evil-Eye stared at Zero in disbelief. That couldn't be right. Although the Theocracy had always been quite open about their intentions to recruit them, they had never been so extreme as to set a bounty. Moreover, it was the steep price that put Evil-Eye on edge. There was no telling what manner of mercenaries and idiots would try to go after them.

What has changed? Wondered Evil-Eye, frowning. Why would the Theocracy be desperate enough to…?

And then her eyes swept across the room and landed on Lord Ainz. It suddenly clicked in her mind: the Theocracy wanted to deprive Lord Ainz of more potential women he could charm. Could it be that simple though? Maybe. The Theocracy had been bold enough to try and kill the Chief Warrior. Why not go after the retainers of the Golden Princess? Regardless, that didn't change that the Theocracy had just earned itself an enemy in Evil-Eye.

The little vampire balled her fists and glared at her feet, all while Lakyus and Ainzach broke into furious whispering, unable to believe what Zero had said. Evil-Eye was not going to allow those southern zealots endanger her friends… even if it meant throwing her full loyalty behind a dark lord.

Once again, she looked at Lord Ainz. The dark lord had a firm and stern look, lost in thought.

Suzuki, on his part, mentally whined just thinking about all the complicated politics he had gotten himself involved into. Hopefully, his meeting with the Guardians later that night would prove to alleviate some of his burdens…

---

Part II

Demiurge was, without a doubt, one of the evilest creatures in all of the Tomb of Nazarick. However, although Suzuki knew about such a fact, another thing was to experience the depths of depravity he could achieve. The archdevil prided himself in efficiency, and in that moment, Suzuki could only stare in horror at the monstrosity that guarded the Seventh Floor.

Why Ulbert? Thought Suzuki, struggling to keep his disgust from showing. Why did you have to make Demiurge this evil?

There, standing before him, Ulbert's creation was committing one of the most heinous acts imaginable, desecrating Suzuki's prized chambers with acts better left elsewhere: a bloody corporate business presentation, with charts, graphs, projections and everything.

Just looking at the way Demiurge cheerfully explained the charts on his little board, tapping at this or that number with a finger, reminded Suzuki of those horrible days back at the office. He had thought he had escaped that life, to never ever see any monthly presentation about performance or smug comments by his boss… but no, there was Demiurge, tormenting him.

"-and thus we would achieve that tiny element in your grand scheme, my lord," finished explaining Demiurge.

The archdevil puffed up with pride, smirked and then bowed with the utmost devotion.

"But of course, you were already aware of all of this, Supreme One," purred Demiurge.

Suzuki forced a smile on his face. He glanced at the couches in front of his desk, where the other guardians and Pandora's actor sat. Somehow, none of them had fallen asleep. In fact, even then they furiously scribbled down notes, as if desperate to have everything written down.

"So, my Lord, what do you think about the New Blood Project?" Demiurge eagerly asked, almost with trepidation.

"Eh…"

Truth to be told, Suzuki got lost halfway through the presentation. His mind was still elsewhere, worrying about the Imperial delegation and the newest revelations, from Prince Barbro's traitorous acts to the Theocracy being a pain in the arse yet again.

"R-right," Suzuki cleared his throat, before rising his eyebrow. "Let me begin that I am quite pleased with the effort put into such grand – ehm - project." That made Demiurge preen with delight. "The goal is also quite admirable and would definitively benefit the tomb…"

…if only I had paid attention to how he hoped to achieve it, mentally whined Suzuki.

"I do apologize for – ehm – missing a few parts of your presentation, Demiurge, however I-"

"But my lord! You do not have to apologize for my mistakes!" Demiurge said in horror.

"No, no, Demiurge, I- I sometimes allow my mind to wonder-"

"Then clearly I have failed you, Supreme One. I beg of you, punish me as you see fit," pleaded Demiurge, going down on one knee.

Suzuki pinched the bridge of his nose, took a deep breath and then stared at the now despondent archdevil.

"Enough, Demiurge," said Lord Momonga. "Let me be clear: you are not at fault here. I have told you many times, I am not the Supreme Being you used to know. I do have my failings."

The archdevil still looked like he deserved a good thrashing (perhaps physical torture) and the overlord allowed a sigh to escape his lips. Now he was feeling sorry for the same evil fiend who had put him (and the other Guardians) through three hours of corporate hell.

"Stand up with pride, Demiurge, and know you have not failed me," commanded Lord Momonga. "On the contrary, you have once again exceeded my expectations…"

And by that I mean I had never expected such a long tedious presentation, mentally grumbled Suzuki.

Demiurge did as told, although he still looked quite saddened by his alleged failures.

"Just to be clear, how many humans do you estimate that you'll kill throughout the entire project?" Lord Momonga asked.

"Ah, that's the thing, Supreme One!" Said Demiurge, once again looking excited and giddy. "I have taken heed of your wisdom and desires, and I have managed to organize this project in such a way neither I nor anyone in the Tomb will lay their hands on any humans or other sentient beings!"

Lord Momonga raised an eyebrow.

"Really? Not one human or demi-human?"

"That's correct, Supreme One," purred Demiurge.

Lord Momonga hummed, squinting at the archdevil. On the one hand, Lord Momonga doubted Demiurge would go through a plan that didn't involve inflicting pain and suffering. On the other, Demiurge wouldn't have dared to lie.

"He speaks the truth, my love," Albedo sweetly said. "We won't be killing one lesser being."

Lord Momonga turned to his creation. Pandora's actor sat next to Cocytus and appeared to ponder what to say, only to nod. Lord Momonga wasn't sure what that hesitation meant, given how it was a yes-no question, but the fact he didn't appear to argue or comment, suggested Demiurge was being truthful. Still…

How? Could Demiurge have developed to such a point? Wondered Lord Momonga. Could he have… finally stopped seeking to commit genocides and torture living creatures?

The other guardians, who apparently had also gotten confused or lost during the presentation, looked as shocked and surprised by the revelation as their lord.

"What are your wishes, my lord? Shall I proceed with your great plan?" Asked Demiurge.

Maybe I should really review the project, thought Momonga. I do have the full version written down…

He looked at the three thick dictionary-looking books piled up on his desk, no doubt filled with Demiurge-level jargon. Worse, when Momonga had asked the archdevil to write a finite number of pages, Demiurge had made sure to use the tiniest size of letter imaginable to fit everything in said number of pages.

…on second thought, I should learn to trust my servants and delegate more, thought Momonga with a grimace. This New Blood project's goal sounds way too good to pass…

Although he would have made the effort to read the project, there was unfortunately already a lot of other things he had yet to do.

"Very well, if that is the case, Demiurge, you may proceed," decided Momonga.

Deep down, Momonga prayed he wasn't making a mistake.

"Your will shall be done, my lord," said Demiurge.

Lord Momonga nodded at the archdevil, before turning to the guardians.

"You are dismissed," he said.

The Guardians all stood and bowed, all while Lord Momonga allowed himself a yawn. It seemed the NPCs got the hint and hurried away. Well, most of them did. As they filed out, one of the Guardians stayed behind.

"Albedo, is there something you wished to discuss?" Suzuki asked.

"Yes, my love, something most urgent," softly said Albedo as she approached him.

Something about the tone immediately set off alarms in Suzuki's head. However, it was too late. He sat up straight, only for Albedo to stand next to him and lean towards him, a playful smile on her face and giving him a very advantageous view of her chest. Someone was well aware of what Suzuki liked.

"And what is this you want to talk about?" Choked out Suzuki.

His mouth went dry and he looked around for reinforcements. Sadly, Rubedo was nowhere to be seen and the other NPCs had left. There wasn't even a maid to call for back-up.

"Why, my love…" sultrily whispered the succubus.

Albedo leaned awfully close to him. He could smell that delicate scent of her, all while feeling her hot breath on his cheek. Suzuki felt a very bold finger circle around his chest and his heart started racing.

"…I wanted to talk about us," she murmured.

"Us?" Repeated Suzuki.

Although he felt proud for having spoken in an even voice rather than squeaking, he was starting to feel quite stifled and hot. Albedo didn't say anything, her smile turning absolutely predatory. Suzuki stared, mesmerized, and instead of fearful, he felt a sense of anticipation.

"My love, I've noticed you've regained some of your strength," remarked Albedo. "At this pace, when do you think you'll…" she paused, only to lean even closer, her lips tickling his ear "…make me yours?"

A shiver went down Suzuki's spine.

"I- well – you see," spluttered Suzuki, clearing his throat. "I…"

He turned to Albedo. The succubus was now standing straight, no longer leaning forward, and looked at him with a rather innocent and expectant look on her face. While Suzuki should have felt pleased, he actually found a deep sense of disappointment, one he quickly squashed deep in his being.

"I can't make any promises, Albedo," said Suzuki.

Albedo frowned, desperation shining in her golden eyes.

"But," quickly amended Suzuki. "I am sure it shouldn't take long. I give you my word, you will be the first to know when I am ready."

"Truly?" Gasped Albedo. "Then I shall be first?"

"Eh… yes?" Suzuki said.

Albedo released a loud squeal, suddenly gushing and squealing in delight.

"Oh, my love, that's all I needed to know!"

Suzuki just sweatdropped. All of a sudden, she paused, only to start fretting.

"Then I must hurry with our preparations!"

"Preparations?" Repeated a confused Suzuki.

"Why, yes, my love. The other females should be ready too, shouldn't they?" said the succubus.

"…other females?" Meekly squeaked Suzuki.

"I do apologize, my love, but the work on the harem has been going slower than it should," Albedo said, bowing her head.

Harem? Thought Suzuki as his mind shut down.

He blankly blinked at the succubus, unable to formulate a thought.

"I shall get everything ready then," Albedo happily said. "Good night, my love!"

She leaned over once again and placed a kiss on his cheek. It was long, soft and definitively a surprise.

"Oh, my love, I can't wait to finally be made yours!" Proclaimed the succubus.

When Suzuki realized what was going, Albedo was happily hopping away, her black wings flapping and humming merrily, although Suzuki was certain he heard her mumble things about knitting more clothes and preparing another nursery.

"W-wait, Albedo!" Croaked Suzuki.

But it was too late, the happy succubus was long gone, leaving a dumbfounded overlord to process what had just happened.

"She- she actually is going through with the harem," whispered Suzuki.

He leaned back, staring at the ceiling. He wasn't entirely sure why he had expected Albedo to drop the entire thing, perhaps the whole talk about marrying her and Shalltear made him think Albedo would get the hint he wasn't looking to bed a small army of females. If anything, Suzuki had gotten the impression Albedo would have preferred if he stuck to her and Shalltear (preferably without the vampire). In hindsight, Suzuki knew he should have known better.

Still, was it truly a bad thing to have a harem?

"I guess I can't keep pushing the issue any longer," sighed Suzuki. "Unless I make it clear what I want, Albedo could muster an army of women."

The idea scared him, particularly because Suzuki doubted Albedo had any idea what sort of woman he liked. For all he knew she might have been gathering demons or dragons…

He folded his arms and frowned, lost in thought. Truth of the matter was that he wasn't entirely sure what he wanted. For too long, he had sincerely dismissed the hopes of ever having sex with a woman, much less have a fulfilling relationship. He had been content with spending his time in Yggdrassil, and he left little to no time to do anything else other than work. Moreover, in the grim world he had lived in, Suzuki had thought relationships were a pointless endeavor.

Even then, in the New World, Suzuki had preferred focusing on the familiar role of overlord, serving as a guild master of sorts. Admittedly, he wasn't one who had long-term dreams and aspirations. The dark world of Earth left little room for that. The idea of being a husband or a lover were alien concepts to him.

If there is one woman I want, I guess it is Enri… but that's only infatuation, isn't it? Maybe in a year I'll lose interest and move on, Suzuki thought.

Something told him, however, that would not be the case.

The case Albedo and Shalltear was much different than Enri's. Both of them had been programmed to pin after Suzuki, and if he didn't do anything, he worried about the amount of psychological and emotional damage he could inflict. He had messed up with Albedo, and he couldn't just abandon Shalltear to an emotional breakdown.

Alright, let us lay down the facts: I do want to have sex, he thought. Now, do I want to have a harem?

He sighed and scratched his head, exasperated. The truth was that he wasn't entirely against it. However, he wasn't sure how it would work out. In theory, having many attractive women available sounded quite appealing. In reality, Suzuki knew a harem was a really complicated business. He really didn't want to deal with women feeling jealous or left out, and he got stressed just thinking about all the juggling of emotions he would have to do.

I could do some research, he thought. Huh, that sounds like a good idea. Maybe I can find examples of a viable harem from this world and decide afterwards.

With that decided, Suzuki nodded to himself with a smile. As always, pushing matters to Future Suzuki left him in a better mood.

Suddenly, that good mood vanished no sooner he laid eyes on the contents of his desk. There, taunting him, was a tower of files. Those weren't just Demiurge full-fledged projects with all the gruesome details and they weren't the usual paperwork. Most reports were handled by Albedo, as well as most day-to-day matters. No, that pile of paper was, for better and for worse, homework.

God damn you, Ainzach! And you too, Lakyus! How did I get roped into helping run E-Rantel? And also you, gods-damned Emperor Jircniv, mentally muttered Suzuki. Why did you have to want to send a delegation to E-Rantel now of all times?

Admittedly, he was glad to finally make contact with the Empire. Sadly, it also meant getting up to speed with what they knew about said nation. There could be a lot to be gained through the Empire, after all, and he couldn't let the opportunity pass.

Suzuki picked one of the folders. He opened it and, after taking a deep breath, started giving it a read. He was meant to go to sleep, he knew that, but still he wanted to at least get some of it done before that. Suzuki didn't want to, but he had to. As overlord of the Great Tomb of-

Knock-knock.

Oh thank goodness, a distraction, thought Suzuki, instantly shoving the folder in his hands over the others. Not soon after, one of his guards walked in.

"The human female Enri Emmot wishes to speak with you, Supreme One," announced the Myrmidon.

Enri? Thought a baffled Suzuki.

"Let her in," said Suzuki.

The insectoid bowed and left. Not soon after, Enri walked in, nervously pulling at her peasant dress. She didn't go far, though. Rather, she looked around and stayed rather close to the door.

"Enri, come in!" Suzuki said and stood up.

The girl tentatively walked deeper in the room, shyly looking around as if expecting someone to jump out and scream at her to leave. Suzuki could relate to the way she acted. He knew he once was that self-conscious the first time he went to his boss' office back IRL.

"What a surprise to see you up and about, especially at this hour," mused Suzuki. "Is something the matter?"

"No!" Exclaimed Enri, wide-eyed. "Everything is great! I just…"

She looked down, ashamed.

"I am not bothering you, am I?" Enri meekly asked. "I know it is late but… last time I checked you were still at a meeting and-"

"It's alright. You are never a bother to me, Enri," Suzuki softly said. "In fact, I welcome your company. Between you and me, you are a great distraction from work."

"I'm glad I could be of help," she said with a bright smile, the very same that made Suzuki's heart jolt in his chest.

"Please, sit down and make yourself comfortable," Suzuki said.

He quickly guided Enri to the long couches in front of his desk.

"Do you want tea? Maybe something to eat?"

"Oh no, I-I'm fine," said Enri, blushing.

She plopped down and, rather than actually making herself comfortable, she appeared to try and shrink on herself, as if to avoid touching as much as she could the furniture. Suzuki shook his head but said nothing, sympathetic of her plight once again. Instead, he sat down opposite Enri across the coffee table.

"So, Enri, how are you doing? I was meaning to drop by at some point and check on you, but I was caught in some urgent business," sighed Suzuki.

That and he had wanted to give a grieving Enri her space.

"Oh, I've been fine," meekly said Enri. "I spent half my day learning your language with a grumpy Negan, and the other half following Lady Albedo around."

Suzuki frowned at that.

"I thought I told you to take the day for yourself."

"I'm sorry, Ainz, but I couldn't just do nothing," said Enri. "You've given me so much… I couldn't just waste it."

Suzuki sighed and shook his head, but smiled nonetheless. Yep, that was Enri alright, always trying to make herself useful.

"So, how may I be of service?" Suzuki kindly asked.

"I wanted to talk about Nfirea," Enri started. She bowed her head in shame. "I'm sorry I made such a scene when I-"

"Again, it's alright, Enri," interrupted Suzuki. "You were just told what had happened to a good friend and his grandmother."

"I shouldn't have broken down like that," Enri sighed.

"There's nothing wrong with grieving," said Suzuki. "The Bareares suffered a terrible fate, after all."

"It doesn't excuse my behavior," said Enri, with slumped shoulders and head bowed. "I… I want to be a capable warchief. What kind of goblin general cries waterfalls like that?"

She smiled bitterly at her lap.

"You don't have to feel obligated to be a warchief or general," said Suzuki. "It wouldn't be hard to arrange something different."

"But I want to," said Enri locking her gaze onto his. "I want to be able to lead the goblins you gave me. I… I… don't want to be a helpless commoner. I want to protect my people... my family... everyone I care about and..."

She looked down, blushing.

"…and I do wish to repay you for all that you've done for me," she mumbled.

Suddenly, Enri snapped her head at him. This time her eyes shone fiercely with determination and she clenched her fists over her lap.

"I know that I might not be cut out for such a role or maybe I will never become a good Warchief, but I give you may word I will give my all," swore Enri.

Suzuki stared at the young woman. Enri stared back. After a few second, Enri looked away, red-faced and visibly embarrassed by her little outburst. Suzuki, on his part, rubbed the back of his neck.

What in the world am I supposed to say now? He thought.

However, a smile of fondness stretched on his face. Seeing Enri there, filled with doubts and uncertainties about her new sudden role as Warchief of a Goblin Army, he was reminded of himself back when he had first transferred to the New World. The more he thought about it, the more he found similarities to both their situations.

There they were, inexperienced ordinary humans, thrust into positions above what they were used to, surrounded by non-human creatures that were extremely devoted to them. Both of them hadn't asked for their new roles, and yet they had accepted them, regardless of the immense burden. Of course, Suzuki still wasn't sure what race he was, but the point remained.

"You know, I was once in a position much like yours," softly said Suzuki.

Enri frowned at him with confusion.

"Believe or not, I never really asked to be the supreme ruler of this place," Suzuki said, looking around at his chambers. "It all came to me all of a sudden."

"Really?" Enri asked in disbelief.

"Yes," nodded Suzuki. "I was inexperienced and a bit overwhelmed by everything. I remember the fear, the dread… the apprehension. There was so much that needed to be done, and it was all too much for me. Everyone suddenly looked at me for orders, expecting the supreme master they believed I was…"

"And now you are the Great Ainz Ooal Gown," Enri said with a smile.

Suzuki laughed.

"Actually, that's a work in progress. I am certainly not as great as you'd expect," he confessed.

"No way," said Enri, grinning. "You are a great lord! Your people love you, and you really make ruling look easy!"

"Thank you, but trust me, I am far from the overlord my people think of me," he admitted. "Every day I work to become better, and even now, after having gained much experience and confidence in my role, I do fear failure."

Enri though didn't appear to believe him. She smiled appreciatively nonetheless.

"In any case, I am honored, Enri," he finally said. "And rest assured, I do believe you do have the makings of a fine Goblin General. Perhaps you will never be a battle-hardened commander, but I know you can become a great leader."

He smiled teasingly at her.

"Any woman who can admonish the famous Gazef Stronoff, Chief Warrior of the Re-Estize Kingdom, and make him blush like a child, has what it takes to keep goblins in line," joked Lord Momonga.

Enri covered her face behind her palm, cheeks glowing an adorable shade of red. Even with her visage hidden, Suzuki could make the outlines of a shy smile stretching on her face. Suzuki chuckled just as Enri giggled, and before long, they were back at staring at each other, fully appreciative of each other's company.

"Thank you, Ainz," she said. "I just hope I don't disappoint you."

"You won't," he said.

The two shared a smile, one that lasted quite a lot of seconds, until Suzuki remembered something. He grimaced, apprehensive of the topic Enri had showed up to talk about, but soldiered on.

"So, about Nfirea…"

"Oh, right," Enri guilty said, looking ashamed for having forgotten about it. "I-I wanted to ask if- if nothing could be done for him."

"You do understand it isn't a matter of resurrection, correct?" Asked Suzuki.

"Yes," nodded Enri with a grimace. "Negan explained to me a zombie isn't just a reanimated corpse; it is a different race."

"Precisely," nodded Suzuki.

"However, Negan also said that there was a way," Enri said, with bright hopeful eyes. "He said that maybe you could change his race."

Suzuki frowned with concern. Why did Nigun give away such important secret? Perhaps he assumed Enri had become important to Suzuki, enough to be given such information? Suzuki then looked at Enri, who had that fierce face of hers.

Then again, I wouldn't put it past Enri to somehow have managed to get Nigun talking, mused Suzuki. For all his zealousness, Nigun is a pushover and a coward. In any case, I will need to have a word or two with that angel about revealing my secrets…

Still, Suzuki had already been meaning to discuss the matter of race-change with Enri. Sadly, things had happened in between, like a certain Emperor sending an envoy to wreck Suzuki's schedule.

"Yes, Enri," Suzuki said. "I could change Nfirea's – and Lizzie's – race."

Enri beamed at him, only to pause, and for her joy to falter.

"But?" Enri tentatively asked.

Suzuki sighed. He did feel like a jerk for what he was about to say. However, it had to be done. The interests of the Tomb had to take priority.

"They will not be humans again," said Suzuki.

He sat there, averting his eyes. A part of him was wary of the way Enri would react. Perhaps she would be furious at him, or maybe she would be disappointed. Just thinking about it made his hands sweat.

"B-but they would remember me?" Enri asked.

Suzuki looked at the young woman. Enri was biting her lips and rubbing her hands. She looked… ashamed? Guilty? Suzuki wasn't sure, but it looked like Enri felt awful for simply asking.

"They would," Suzuki slowly responded. "In fact, they would be much like they were before their ordeal personality-wise. Only their race would be changed… and they will become part of my people."

"You'd take them in?" Asked Enri in surprise.

That's one way of saying forcibly brainwashing and inducting them to become my NPCs, thought Suzuki.

"In a way," he said instead. "They would become my servants and part of my domain."

Suzuki actually scratched his head in confusion when Enri looked relieved to hear that.

"That's… that's good," nervously said Enri.

She licked her lips, growing more agitated.

"And what race would they be changed into?" She asked.

The truth of the matter was that Suzuki hadn't decided yet. A part of him wished to turn the two alchemists into a race called 'Plague Lords'. They were a heteromorph species of scary-looking rat-men that could take the shape of normal humans with the exception of a long worm-like tail. Other than that, they were a summoner/support race, capable of summoning rodent servants and even other rat-men, as well as spreading various diseases. The best part would be the racial bonus to the Alchemy crafting skill.

Other than that, he had considered turning the Bareares into Dark Elves. They were the sole exception to 'Heteromorph-only' rule Suzuki had imposed on himself if only so that Aura and Mare could have fellow dark elves under their command. In fact, he had considered assigning the Bareares to the Twins since the two spent so much time in the forest and thus they could become the Tomb's herbalists.

Sadly, Suzuki was still on the fence and his mind was far more entertained by the upcoming Imperial delegation than anything else. Even all thoughts about the other zombies whose fate needed to be decided had been pushed to the background. Between the delegation and the matters in the forest, Zurrernorn or whatever cult had been responsible for the undead army at E-Rantel would have to wait.

"I am not sure," he admitted. "Do you want me to change their races?"

Enri looked down, clenching her skirt and scrunching her face in great shame. It suddenly clicked in Suzuki's mind what was going on: Enri felt terrible for requesting the race change of people she cared about. It was no doubt taboo between humans to even consider such a thing.

"They won't hate you, Enri," Suzuki said.

"Why wouldn't they? I am being so selfish but… but I really want them to live – and not as zombies. They deserve better… especially Nfirea. He was still a boy!"

Ouch, poor Nfirea, thought Suzuki with a wince.

"They had so much to live for and it was taken from them," Enri sigh. "But is it right for me to ask to turn them into something they may hate? Maybe they would rather die than be robbed of their humanity…"

"Enri," said Suzuki. "Both Nfirea and Lizzie are unable to say or do anything as of right now, and they have already been robbed of their humanity. And, no, Enri, it isn't selfish to ask for people to regain their rationality, to be given a chance to live their lives to the fullest, even if it is as part of a new race."

Enri gave him a small smile which he reciprocated.

"I suppose you are right," she said with a sigh before she sheepishly smiled at Suzuki. "Maybe we should be discussing this with Brita, though."

"Brita?" Suzuki repeated.

Why does that name sound familiar? He wondered.

"The red-haired huscarl that accompanied the Swords of Darkness," clarified Enri. "Nfirea and she had something going on."

Suzuki stared at Enri, wide-eyed and jaw going slack. Enri, on her part, nodded with equal amazement.

"I know! I could not believe it either," giggled Enri.

"Are you sure?" Suzuki wondered.

"Oh, Ainz, it was very obvious," Enri sagely nodded.

"I suppose you'd know better," he said, although not entirely sure that was the case.

For all her courage (or recklessness), Enri could be rather oblivious and unobservant at times.

Well, I guess it does make sense he had a thing for physically strong women that held to the Old Ways, mused Suzuki. Perhaps he still had lingering feelings for Enri but understood he should pursue someone closer to E-Rantel…

Suzuki wasn't going to deny he was far from disappointed that his plan to hook Enri with Nfirea had been a bust from the start. If anything, he was glad about it.

That means Enri is available, slowly considered Suzuki, only to shake his head. No, remember, she's too young…

That didn't stop him from considering the possibilities. She had been reaped out of the circle of people she knew and taken to a world of heteromorphs. Moreover, her only friend and possible lover had been not only zombified, but apparently had been pursuing someone else the whole time. And with Albedo being clearly open to the idea of him pursuing other women…

Get your head back in the game, Suzuki, he told himself.

Still, a part of him did feel he had to invest more time researching harems, and pronto.

"I'm sorry, Enri, but the ability to change races is a secret," said Suzuki, broken out of his reverie. "If you wish for Brita to be brought into the discussion, then she'll have to become part of my people."

"I understand," Enri nodded.

"Good," nodded Suzuki.

Enri bit her lip and looked down, unsure. She seemed quite worried, and even after all Suzuki had said, she still looked ashamed.

"You do not need to make a decision now, Enri," Suzuki decided. "It is late, we've been talking for a while, and such important decision should not be made lightly."

"B-but that would mean Nfirea and Lizzie will remain zombies for longer."

"They are safe, Enri, and a day or two will not change anything."

Enri remained uncertain.

"I- yes, you're right," she said. "Thank you, Ainz."

Enri nodded and smiled at him in understanding.

"You are more than welcome, Enri."

The two smiled at each other, and lost themselves in each other's gazes. As much as Suzuki wished he could stop acting like a love-struck teenager, he knew he couldn't stop himself. Throughout his entire life, he had come to terms he would never have a girlfriend. Back at school, girls had avoided him and he hadn't exactly bothered to interact with them more than necessary. Then, later in life, he had never had a chance and, truly, he had never really tried.

Eventually, they averted their eyes. Enri yawned, while Suzuki grimaced and massages his neck.

"I suppose it is late," said Enri. "Are you alright, Ainz?"

"Yes, just a bit tired," he replied, still rubbing his neck.

"Oh, I know exactly what you need!" Said Enri with a bright smile.

Suzuki raised an eyebrow and felt a pang of concern. He knew that look of hers. Whatever she was about to do, there wouldn't be a stop to it. Thus, the Supreme Ruler of the Tomb of Nazarick helplessly sat there, utterly bewildered, as Enri stood up and walked over to stand behind him.

"Eh… Enri, what are you-?" He started asking.

He stiffened when he felt Enri's fingers on his shoulders and thumbs on his back. This was new to him.

"Enri, what – ACK!" Suddenly squawked the overlord.

He gritted his teeth. Enri's thumbs pressed forward and squeezed Suzuki's back muscles. Then, she started moving the thumbs.

"Uy – what the – ah – oh - uh," Suzuki spluttered.

He was assaulted by all manner of sensations. First, there was discomfort. Then, tension. Finally, and much to his surprise, a strange feeling of release. In fact, after a few seconds, Suzuki found himself relaxing and enjoying the experience.

A shoulder massage, that was what she was doing. Suzuki hadn't expected Enri to know how to give him one. Sure, it wasn't the full thing like he had seen in movies, restricted to his shoulders and upper back, but, regardless, it felt divine.

"You like it?" asked Enri.

"Yes, it feels nice," hummed a very pleased Suzuki.

"I'm glad I could help," laughed Enri. "Again."

For a while, Suzuki sat there, content, as Enri worked on his back. He had to admit, he was truly baffled by how relaxing it felt.

"Wow, you are really stiff and tense," said an amused Enri. "I suppose being a ruler does that to anyone."

I blame Demiurge and three hours of corporate hell he put me through, mused Suzuki.

"Where did you learn to do this?" He eventually asked.

"It isn't a complex art, Ainz," giggled Enri. "I mostly watched mother do it to father."

"Momonga," he said without much thought.

Enri stopped massaging and tilted her head in confusion.

"That's my real name," he clarified.

Suzuki awkwardly cleared his throat.

"Since you insist on being one of my people, I suppose it is only right you know," he mumbled.

A part of him wondered why he didn't tell Enri his actual real name, the one he had used back on Earth. Admittedly, Suzuki could understand it would bring many unnecessary questions and, truthfully, a part of him felt too apprehensive in sharing that name.

"It is not Ainz Ooal Gown?" Wondered Enri, slowly going back to massaging. "I guess it now explains why your servants always address you as Momonga… what does Sama stand for?"

"It is an honorific," chuckled Suzuki. "In my language, you add it at the end of a name of someone you hold utmost respect or admiration."

"Oh," said Enri in surprise. "I guess that's why Jugem keeps calling me Enri-Sama, then."

The two chuckled at that.

"By the way, how are you doing with Jugem and the goblins? Have they been causing any problems?" He eventually asked.

"Oh, you have no idea," huffed Enri with a giggle. "Those goblins are such troublemakers… really, I understand they are an army, but must they always be asking for a fight? Last time I visited them at their camp they thought we were launching a campaign to wipe out the Forest goblins!"

"I know exactly how you feel," mused Suzuki. "Some of my servants are just like that…"

He chuckled as he thought of Demiurge.

Oh, come on, Suzuki, give Demiurge a break, he told himself. He has gone as far as to make a plan without killing one single human! That must mean something, right?

"How do you handle it? If I didn't know any better I'd assume my goblins actually want to spread death and destruction," huffed Enri with a cute pout.

He patted one of her hands comfortingly.

Oh, you poor summer child, thought Suzuki.

"I try to make my intentions clear, for the most part," said Suzuki.

She paused in her massage.

"Do you have any other pointers?" Wondered Enri.

Suzuki glanced at her. She, in turn, gave him a pleading look.

"I can't say I am an expert on the field of being a goblin general," chuckled Suzuki.

"You must know a thing or two about leading and ruling, being a ruler yourself," mused Enri. "I don't mean to say I haven't learned anything from Albedo, but she hasn't taught me anything specific."

I guess I do have experience on the matter, mentally chuckled Suzuki. Still, it felt so weird to start giving tips to somebody else to what amounted to something he had yet to complete.

"There are a few pointers I could give you," hummed Suzuki. "But, if we are going to keep on talking, then I insist on at least some tea… and snacks."

Enri laughed at that and agreed. Not soon after, she sat down opposite Suzuki. The overlord surprised Enri by merely pulling a teapot and two tea cups before he revealed a platter filled with cookies.

And so, the Peasant-turned-warchief and the Salaryman-turned-Overlord talked throughout the night, with cups of hot tea on one hand and a cookie on the other, chatting and laughing through the night and early morning.

---

Far away, in the Re-Estize Kingdom, a certain Archdevil cheerful walked onwards, arms folded behind him and metallic tail swaying contently. Before him was one of the corridors to the human dwelling that had been so kindly provided by Prince Zanac. It was shrouded in darkness, without a single candle or lamp alit, not that Demiurge needed it. However, some moonlight poured in from the windows lined up on his left, pushing shadows away and covering walls and furniture in quicksilver light.

The Guardian of the Seventh Floor was in a particular good mood. How could he not be? Not only had he successfully presented his project to his lord and master, but Lord Momonga had given Demiurge permission to proceed. Additionally, Demiurge once again had gotten an insight on Lord Momonga's expansive and vast foresight and intelligence.

He paused by the windows, and took a moment to smile up at the heavens above. With only clear skies above, the stars twinkled and glittered unimpeded. While they would always be lesser than Lord Blue Planet's work on the Sixth Floor, Demiurge found the night skies of the New World rather alluring (not like the ceiling of his own floor, of course). Thousands upon thousands of stars taunted Demiurge with each twinkle.

Ah, stars… the jewels of the heavens, thought Demiurge.

They were so far… so unreachable… but not to the Supreme Beings. They were out there, in the great void, carrying on the Great Game and engaged in battles, realms and who-knows-what that was far beyond what Demiurge could imagine.

"Oh, Lord Ulbert, how I long to witness your full glory one last time," sorrowfully sighed Demiurge.

Truth to be told, Demiurge wanted a second chance to prove his worth to his creator. A part of him understood that Lord Ulbert had left to pursue the unimaginable goals of the Supreme Beings, gone into realms beyond his comprehension. And yet part of him blamed himself. Perhaps he had done something to dissatisfy his creator and the other Supreme Beings…

Demiurge paused, and slowly, joy swelled in his chest.

For all his woes, all was not lost. One Supreme Being remained, the one who had stood above them all: Lord Momonga! In his infinite kindness, he had taken them all with him and even allowed them all to indulge in their desires to be useful.

He stayed and saved us from the end of the Old World, perhaps at the expense of his own powers, thought Demiurge.

That last bit was hard to grasp. The idea of a Supreme Being actually being less than Supreme was just something he couldn't bring himself to imagine. Was Lord Momonga that merciful and kind? Did he care about his servants so much he decided to spare them of their fate in exchange of his own supremeness?

Truth was, Demiurge wasn't sure. Perhaps Lord Momonga was merely indulging them, perhaps he truly had lost most of his powers, or maybe it was all part of his great schemes. It mattered not; Demiurge was going to serve his master to the next end of times. Lord Ulbert was gone, but as long as he had one Supreme Being (and hopefully his future offspring) to serve, Demiurge had reason to carry on.

With a chuckle, he stood up straight and smirked. He dusted himself off and glanced at the stars.

"I've wasted enough time as it is," mused Demiurge.

He adjusted his glasses and a devious smirk crawled on his face.

"There's business to tend to," he purred.

And indeed, there were lesser beings waiting for him. It took him a short walk across the manor before he reached his destination. At the far end of the corridor, two Shadow Flayers waited, melded into the darkness, guarding an unassuming door, no different to any others in the building. Demiurge didn't pause by the entrance and, instead, sauntered right in.

The archdevil found himself greeted by two Doom Legionaries already waiting inside. The room was dark, with only the moon as source of light. To Demiurge and his demons, any light was unnecessary. The same couldn't be said for the other residents of the room.

"Lord Demiurge."

"Ladies," replied Demiurge.

There, kneeling before him, were his latest tools: Princess Renner and Miss Hilma. He took a long moment to study the two lesser beings, taking in the Princess calm demeanor and Miss Hilma's tense nervousness, before smirking cruelly and walking over to the large round table nearby.

It was the same room Lord Momonga had personally interacted with Prince Zanac and the Princess. He sat down with a strange sense of apprehension, wondering if, perhaps, he wasn't sitting where his master had once sat down.

"Please, come and sit down," softly said Demiurge. "There's much to discuss."

The humans hurried to take a seat around the table. Whereas the Princess did so with an eager twisted smile clad in her usual blue dress, Hilma sat with a wary glance at the Doom Legionnaires sneering at her, anxiously flattening the creases of her white dress. Demiurge extended a finger to the chandelier at the center of the table and, with a simple gesture, ignited the tip of the candles. Without further ado, Demiurge began their meeting in order to enlighten his tools on their purpose – at least, what they needed to know.

"Ah, here we are again," mused Demiurge. "Allow me to begin by congratulating you, Princess, for your clever plan. Truly, such cunning is quite commendable."

For a human, he mentally added.

"Thank you, my lord," said Renner. "I have to say, however, my idea was far from clever… having Lord Rettenmaier removed was merely logical. I did not expect for the rest of the Mayor's trusted officials to be killed in the process…"

…leaving E-Rantel ripe for the Supreme One, giddily finished the archdevil.

"Do not downplay your intelligence, dear," purred Demiurge. "It is the means and manner it was done that shine through. Employing Eight Fingers – or rather Six Arms – to do so, all while leaking out that none other than Prince Barbro requested such a thing has created a crisis of succession…"

Demiurge's smirk widened.

"…and that's leaving aside the rumor you have started that the Slane Theocracy has allegedly put a bounty on your retainers' head."

He actually thought that last bit of the Princess' plan a stroke of genius. In one blow, the Princess managed to sour relationships even further with the Slane Theocracy, a nation that needed to be isolated from the others, all while pushing the future child-bearers that were the Knights of the Blue Rose into Lord Momonga's grasp.

"Again, thank you, my lord," said Renner. "I have to insist, I had no way of knowing things would play so perfectly in Lord Ainz favor… the way it all happened during that undead attack was beyond genius."

"That, your highness, is but a portion of Lord Ainz's incredible foresight at play!" Boasted Demiurge. "One can't merely attempt to grasp his foresight and cunning!"

"It is truly incredible to behold," commented Renner.

Demiurge nodded before turning to the other human.

"Of course, your part in the whole scheme is worthy of note, Miss Hilma," purred Demiurge. "Were it not for your own position within Eight Fingers, Six Arms might never have been fooled."

The older human seemed to deflate in relief at that.

"I am underserving of your praise," tremulously said Hilma. "All I did was contact Six Arms and follow the Princess' plan…"

"Regardless, you served your purpose. Rest assured, both of you, your actions shall be dully rewarded in due time, for Lord Ainz is a very merciful and kind master and recognizes even the smallest of contributions," said Demiurge. "Now, with all that said, shall we talk business? How is the situation developing over here?"

"Quite as I predicted," said the Princess. "The King is as ineffectual and pathetic as always. The loss of Rettenmaier has affected him greatly, and the ongoing chaos at court has left Ramposa paralyzed."

"I suppose the King is in denial about the allegations against his son?" Guessed Demiurge.

"Quite so," Renner nodded. "He hasn't informed the court and is trying to keep any rumors from leaking out…" a wide inhuman smiled crawled on her face "…oh, if only maids didn't pay so much mind to the words of a despondent princess, especially when sharing her concerns in regards to the very false allegations towards her brother, during her evening walk with her pet."

Demiurge allowed himself a chuckle to escape his lips, if only to convey his satisfaction on the Princess' actions. However, the reminder of that pathetic little pet she kept around annoyed Demiurge. How could such a rare specimen of a human like the Princess be so attached to such a pathetic creature? That worthless pet didn't have anything worth of note…

It matters not, thought Demiurge with a genuine smirk. Already, the Princess' own obsessiveness is drawing her to Lord Momonga. Oh, if the Princess ever learned about her purpose in the Supreme One's plan, she would no doubt be far from cooperative…

"Even so, the King is growing distrustful of Barbro. Ramposa may deny it all he wants, but even he can't deny that his eldest son is more than capable of what he is accused of," mused the Princess. "I suppose it helps a certain Princess has shared her own concerns with her beloved father…"

"Ah, indeed," nodded Demiurge with approval. "What about the court?"

"The court is in turmoil over Lord Ainz's gracious intervention in E-Rantel, and there is no ruling opinion. Some nobles decry Lord Ainz as the perpetrator of the army of undead, others wish to meet him, but overall nobles are still reeling over the news. They had, stupidly enough, dismissed Lord Ainz some time now, so they are probably quite baffled by recent turn of events."

"And how do you predict things will evolve in court?" Asked Demiurge.

"As they always do," said Renner. "Noblemen will take a position based on what is most advantageous for them. Considering how Lord Ainz has expertly inserted himself right in between all factions of the nobility, with no clear sides taken, it is likely nobles will seek to ingratiate themselves to him, especially since Lord Ainz has a near undisputed hold on E-Rantel. Of course, noblemen are quite open to Lord Ainz now thanks to the Emperor."

The mention of the Emperor brought a genuine smile of amusement across Demiurge's face.

"Ah yes, the Bloody Emperor," purred Demiurge.

What an undeserving title, thought the Archdevil. He merely slaughtered his entire family and all nobles that were either incompetent or opposed him (and perhaps just a few thousands of humans that supported said nobles) but no one else. He didn't even make a display out of it!

Admittedly, Demiurge had learned about humanity's history and he did feel rather disappointed by the current breed of monarchs. Humans of the past were far more entertaining. The worst part was that he didn't even mean those of the far past. Just fifty years prior (more or less), there had been a king that had made a far more amusing show of violence and brutality.

A real pity his granddaughter doesn't compare to him, mentally sighed a disappointed Demiurge, only to smirk excitedly. But perhaps Lord Momonga plans to change that?

"I must say, I did not expect the king to agree to the delegation," said Demiurge.

Truthfully, Demiurge knew exactly the reasoning of the pathetic monarch. However, it did serve to play a bit ignorant at times. By Renner's feverish glint, though, Demiurge could safely assume she knew that he knew. She indulged him regardless.

"The Emperor picked the perfect time to strike," mused Renner. "For all his grievances towards the Empire, father is growing worried about the Theocracy…"

"…something that isn't helped when he heard about a certain bounty," remarked Demiurge with a smirk.

"Indeed," said Renner. "Father sees this opportunity both to find peace with the Empire, something he has longed for, and, perhaps, try to see if the Empire couldn't be swayed against the Theocracy. Since the Emperor probably also worries about the Theocracy and its ever growing military might, I'll admit Ramposa's idea has merit…"

"And I suspect your father doesn't want to see if he can't count with the Empire to fight Lord Ainz is needed, correct?" Mused Demiurge.

Renner's very twisted smile stretched ever so slightly.

Yes, they both knew that King Ramposa III was weary of Lord Momonga and was seeking the means to fight him if needed. However, Demiurge also knew it was more of a precaution than an actual desire to fight Lord Momonga. The human monarch was cornered, with one son now accused of treason, many useless noblemen lost in their struggles, and losing trusted noblemen like Rettenmaier. In no time, even that pathetic monarch would see there was only one road to take…

"Then I take it the king has agreed to the summit?" Demiurge asked.

"Oh yes, he has agreed wholeheartedly and has opened communications to all nations. That is with the exception of the Empire, but that's due to the impending delegation," Renner replied.

"Does the King also wish to include the Argland Council State and a few of the Karsanas City States?" Asked Demiurge.

"I know Ramposa will try, but he will fail," mused Renner. "The Argland Council is barely able to decide anything, and the City States are too engrossed in their own petty matters to care."

"Good," said Demiurge. "When will this summit take place?"

"I suspect the leaders of the participating nations will want to partake in the event themselves for their own reasons. If that's the case, then I estimate the overall organization required for such a meeting will take a month at most," said Renner.

"Ah, the small grind of politics," remarked Demiurge.

"That does not mean we won't be receiving envoys and delegations beforehand, though," mused Renner. "The Holy Kingdom, I suspect, will eagerly send its own delegation soon. I am making sure of it."

"That's excellent news," purred Demiurge, truly delighted. "By the way, your highness, who has been put in charge of meeting the Imperial Delegation to E-Rantel?"

"Why, my dear brother Zanac, of course," mused Renner.

"Ah yes, of course," nodded Demiurge.

"Your highness, I apologize for the interruption," Hilma nervously interceded, visibly struggling to steel her nerves. "I have to ask: why would the Holy Kingdom bother with this summit? They have rarely ever cared about international affairs…"

"That's correct, but you must understand, Queen Calca is quite unlike her predecessors. She actually wishes to set a new course for her country, although admittedly she will do so guardedly, given her current uneasy hold on the throne. If anything, one of the reasons she is so interested in improving relations with the Kingdom is to strengthen her own power," Renner said.

"Good trade deals, for instance, could rob many of her opposing noblemen from the leverage they have, and a good relation with the Re-Esterith monarchy will give her political backing against her dissidents. If she can also gain cheaper products from our kingdom to ease the economic strain of the Great Wall, that would be a momentous victory in her reign."

"But why would any lord hold any leverage?" Wondered Hilma. "I thought Holy Kings kept their lords in line with the-"

"Like I said, Queen Calca is unlike her predecessors," interrupted Renner.

"So the Holy Kingdom will be sending delegates over… that's good," approvingly purred Demiurge. "But let us change subject. We will discuss foreign politics at a later time, won't we?"

Both Princess and Hilma didn't seem too bothered by that. If anything, Hilma actually sat up straighter, probably eager to finally get a bigger involvement in the conversation.

"In regards to the New Blood Project, how are things moving along?" Inquired Demiurge.

Hilma immediately perked up and smiled confidently. The little tool had clearly been doing its job.

"Everything is moving along just as planned, my lord," said Hilma. "We will be counting with over two hundred alchemists and, the best part, I believe I have convinced enough noblemen to fund the project themselves. The concept of immortality does sell, after all."

"What about the other set of skills for the project?" Wondered the Archdevil.

"I have acquired certain… eh… talented people," Hilma's smile grew strained, "that will do just nicely for what you have in mind, my lord." She actually looked a bit green. Was she sick perhaps? "Some will need to be broken out of prison, and others… others will need to be kept under a tight leash. I'm afraid a number of them are quite… ehm… unstable."

To think there were humans so eager to inflict all manner of suffering on their fellow men. True, they weren't a majority, far from it actually. Still, Demiurge did find it amusing.

"As for the holding camps you wanted… I believe it will be a matter of repurposing any of the slave-holding facilities from Eight Fingers' Slave Department. Cocco Doll is already working on it. He estimates we could have two prisons set up by next week, and filled to the brim with slaves," reported Hilma.

"Excellent, Lord Ainz will be most pleased," said Demiurge, only to pause and raise one eyebrow ever so slightly. While the motion was subtle, Hilma's desperation was not. "But when shall research begin?"

"It shall be right on schedule, my lord!" Hastily spluttered Hilma. "I already have alchemists working on the project!"

"But?" Demiurge said, and Hilma winced.

"My lord, this project… it is unlike anything we – no, anyone – has ever envisioned," Hilma stated. "I doubt even the Theocracy could hope to get anywhere any progress in a decade…"

"Do not worry about it. Just follow the outline I've given you. Soon, Lord Ainz will provide with true experts to guide the alchemists, while I will make sure all necessary ingredients are provided," Demiurge said.

Truthfully, Demiurge was growing quite excited. He could not believe he had misunderstood Lord Momonga's plans at some point. Admittedly, he had been so overly eager to please his master, Demiurge had personally gone out of his way to carry out Lord Momonga's will. Of course, Demiurge should have known better.

I can't believe Lord Momonga in his extreme graciousness blatantly hinted at how I should be conducting my projects, Demiurge wistfully sigh. He was truly undeserving of such a magnanimous and intelligent master.

Now Demiurge understood why Momonga didn't want him to conduct genocides and massacres. After all, why was Demiurge wasting time on such menial task by himself, when there were already plentiful humans and infrastructure to rely on? Eight Fingers already had concentration camps for slaves, various alchemists at their disposal, and enough humans that would gladly conduct the experiments Demiurge had in mind. Better yet, they were the ideal scapegoat if a Player or foreign nation ever discovered the camps.

With Princess Renner and Miss Cygneous at my disposal, I can focus on yet more projects, just like Lord Momonga intended from the start! Thought Demiurge. Clearly, my core flaws were my inability to delegate and how much of a perfectionist I am. I do regret taking so long to realize that much… but it matters not. Lord Momonga has shown me the way.

There was only one thing he could think when had caught a tiny glimpse of Lord Momonga's massive and superior intellect:

Sasuga Momonga-Sama!

Back in the Tomb of Nazarick, a certain overlord stopped his conversation and shivered and tensed nervously for some unknown reason.

---

Part III

The Imperial Delegation had been spotted. It was estimated the Imperials would arrive after noon, if not a bit later. While there was still some time until the delegation's fateful arrival, being early morning, the entirety of E-Rantel was immersed in a tense feeling. Nerves were running high, rumors and whispers were running rampart and everyone was at a loss on how to interpret the delegation's purpose. Could there be peace in the horizon? None could feel the weight of such meeting other than the man in charge of actually dealing with the Imperials: Prince Zanac.

This was, without a doubt, one of the most important moments in his short political career. His successes and failures with the upcoming delegation would no doubt define the following years. In fact, Zanac's candidacy as King rode on the outcome of the meeting.

Hence, Prince Zanac was a bit at a loss given his current predicament. After all, he knew he should have been back at the Palace, making last moment preparations and ensuring everything absolutely perfect for the grand meeting. Instead, Zanac found himself in quite in an unlikely place, particularly for royalty…

"-and that's how we forge orichalcum," wheezed the grizzled old man in front of the Prince.

Dirty, wrinkled, clad in greased leather apron and rather hairy, the blacksmith kept nervously wringing his hands against a filthy rag. Even his bushy white beard was covered in stains and carried a rather unpleasant smell. The entire smithy reeked of oil, grease and metal, and Zanac may have scrunched his face in disgust at the stench, were it not for the two intimidating beefy apprentices flanking the master blacksmith. That and, of course, his current companion.

"Most incredible. Wouldn't you agree, your highness?"

Zanac glanced at the dark being next to him. Glowing red eyes shone with genuine curiosity, and a look of interest marred his foreign features, as his gaze once again swept across the large room. Lord Ainz Ooal Gown was completely unbothered by the smell. He exuded an air of wealth and power, yet he looked quite comfortable around that dingy smithy. In fact, he took in the forge on the far end, the two anvils, the myriad of tools and items across various tables, and the merchandize hanging from the wooden walls with a smile.

"I am quite impressed by your skills, mister," said Lord Ainz. He offered a respectful bow, one that caught the humans in the room by surprise. "Thank you for your time. I appreciate all that you have taught me…"

"N-nonsense, m-m'lord! It was- was an honor!" Spluttered the blacksmith.

Prince Zanac followed Lord Ainz's example.

"Oh no, good sir, we both are thankful for your time," amended the Prince.

"It was my pleasure, sire!" Said the blacksmith, puffing up. He immediately boxed the heads of his two stoic apprentices, who barely flinch. "Ain't that right, you two?"

"Yes, master," said the two muscular youths. "It was an honor, my lord!"

Lord Ainz gave another courteous bow, one Zanac knew no nobleman would ever give a commoner, and turned around. Out of impulse, Zanac gave a courteous bow of his own, much to the shock of the already bewildered freemen, and followed the dark lord out of the smithy.

They were greeted by their respective bodyguards. A fully armored Azuth stopped trying to hit on Rubedo and walked behind Zanac, just like the strange female warrior marched to stand behind Lord Ainz. Also waiting for them was the famous Sir Momon the Black Knight Errant and his squire Nabe.

"Ah, finally, your highness," mused Azuth. "I thought you'd never leave!"

"I apologize, good Sir. It was mostly my fault. I had too many questions regarding blacksmithing and the ore trade in the kingdom," chuckled Lord Ainz.

"First a tannery, then a bakery and now a smithy," the crimson-clad knight huffed with a lazy smirk. "Are you interested in picking up a trade?"

"Think of it as an investment, Sir," rebutted Lord Ainz. "Knowledge is power, after all, no matter how mundane the knowledge in question."

"Even baking?" Mused the knight.

"Indeed. You'd be surprised," was all Lord Ainz said, baring a smirk and a knowing glint in his flaming eyes. "Shall we continue with our walk?"

He looked up at the sky. The sun was rather high on the clear blue heavens.

"Although I suppose we have been on this little adventure for too long," hummed the dark lord. "The delegation should be arriving in some time, and I presume there are still preparations you wish to oversee, your highness?"

Actually, the Prince was desperate to go back to checking on everything.

"Yes, maybe I should tend to my duties, my lord," said Zanac. "Although we could always go for another walk at a later date."

"Yes, perhaps we could," hummed the dark lord.

And without another word, they set off up the cobbled streets of E-Rantel, towards the inner ring of the city.

The group was met with many glances and a lot of staring. Any band of patrolling warriors and guardsmen saluted at them with the utmost respect, but they always carried an air of amazement. The Prince couldn't blame them; Lord Ainz was quite an impressive sight on his own without Lady Rubedo, Sir Azuth and Sir Momon in the group.

As they marched onwards without saying much, Zanac thought back to how he had ended out there, mingling amongst freemen and commoners. He knew his father would have approved, even if most noblemen would have looked unfavorably at him.

The truth was that Zanac had no idea why Lord Ainz had marched into his solar, interrupted his revision on his piles of paperwork, and suggested going out on a walk across E-Rantel. The Prince had accepted if only to learn more from the dark lord. And yet, Zanac had still to figure out if there wasn't a hidden purpose beneath the Dark Lord's invitation.

I have been able to learn a lot from him, thought Zanac as they reached the gateway into the inner circle of E-Rantel. The way Lord Ainz carries himself, how he addresses and talks to people…

And yet, Lord Ainz remained a mystery. How could such a powerful entity, regal and imperious, be so humble and kind? Zanac would have thought any human who had enough power would inevitably become arrogant and deluded, yet clearly Lord Ainz was above most humans.

Maybe Lord Ainz wanted to show me I should be out there with the common people? Wondered Zanac. Or did he want me to see something in particular?

Sir Momon and his squire bid their farewells soon after, spouting something about fighting evil or whatnot. By the look on Lord Ainz's face, the reports on the animosity between the black knight and dark lord held some truth. Zanac would keep that in mind if Lord Ainz ever proved to be too dangerous.

Before long, though, they had made it to the palace, where Zanac knew Lord Ainz would proceed to bid his own farewells.

"My lord, if I may ask…" Zanac paused, his heart racing.

Was it right to be blunt? Shouldn't he try to be more subtle? He took a deep breath and stilled his nerves. No, the Prince needed to know; he highly doubted he had the intellect to understand such overwhelming entity as Lord Ainz. Even Renner, for all her smarts, appeared to fail to comprehend Lord Ainz.

"I have to ask, your lordship, was there any reason behind this walk?" Asked Zanac.

"Reason?" Lord Ainz hummed, raising an eyebrow.

"I don't mean to sound rude, but you did have some purpose behind wandering around E-Rantel," said Zanac with an apologetic smile.

"Is it not believable I merely wanted to indulge in my curiosity about E-Rantel and some of its people?" Asked Lord Ainz.

"Your lordship, we both know you could have asked for a master of any trade, if you already don't possess books on the matter. Moreover, you have been at E-Rantel many times," pointed of Zanac.

"I see," hummed the Dark Lord, stroking his chin.

Zanac hoped he hadn't come off as rude. He stood there, all while Lord Ainz's red eyes were aimed at him, burrowing deep in his soul. Was Lord Ainz wondered what he would share? Or was he contemplating if it was even worth the effort?

"Yes, Prince Zanac, I had many reasons for this walk of ours," magnanimously said Lord Ainz.

Zanac stared at the dark lord. The dark lord stared back. Silence ensued.

"May I ask which ones?" Wondered Zanac.

"Ehm… yes, of course," dismissively said Lord Ainz. "For instance, I was quite interested in you."

"Me?" Blinked Zanac, dumbfounded.

"Yes, you do intend to be king, do you not?" Lord Ainz asked.

"Yes, I do, but what does-?"

"And have you ever bothered to speak with the lowly craftsmen, at their shop, about their trade?" Wondered Lord Ainz.

Zanac was at an utter loss.

"Have you ever bothered to understand the commoner, the peasant, the tradesman… the same people you one day intend to rule?"

Zanac frowned, utterly bewildered.

"Take this as a lesson, your highness," said Lord Ainz. "A ruler can't allow himself to grow detached of those he rules; he must always keep in touch with them, in order to fully understand their interests and remain grounded in the reality of his nation… and hopefully stay humble. It is easy to lose yourself and grow arrogant. A ruler who fails to understand the interests of his people, will inevitably be a ruler who fails to build policies in their favor… and that, history proves, rarely helps to build a long-lasting and stable country."

Zanac stared at the entity in awe. It was such a simple lesson, yet it struck as common sense. How come he had never thought about such a thing?

"I-I understand," slowly said Zanac. "I…"

A flash of something, like inspiration, crossed Lord Ainz's face.

"In fact, I did want to see, perhaps, you were fit for a special role," he magnanimously proclaimed.

"Role?"

"Yes," Lord Ainz dramatically nodded. "Have you considered becoming Mayor of E-Rantel?"

"M-Mayor?" Repeated Zanac, taken aback. "But I…"

"Meditate on today, your highness," sagely nodded Lord Ainz. "Think about what you've learned today, but remember, there's a delegation to deal with."

"Right, yes," spluttered Zanac as he nodded. He bowed at the dark lord. "Thank you, my lord… for everything."

"Good then," said Lord Ainz, standing in all of his magnanimous glory. "By your leave, your highness…"

With a simple respectful nod, he took off, flying up the Palace, followed closely by Lady Rubedo. The Prince's gaze followed after them, and then then remained staring off even after Lord Ainz and his bodyguard disappeared behind the battlements.

"My prince."

Zanac slowly looked down, only to see Sir Ainzach, accompanied by a pair of knights and the Head Mage Rahkeshir, marching down the steps of the palace towards him.

"Is everything alright, my prince?" Asked a concerned Sir Ainzach.

Zanac smiled and stood up straight.

"Yes, I believe everything is more than right," nodded the Prince, with new found confidence.

Perhaps, with the guidance and teachings of Lord Ainz, I may become a worthy king and make this country somewhere worth living in, mused Zanac. Mayor Zanac… I see now. Lord Ainz wants me to take this role to gain experience and learn to rule and be a better king.

"Now, how are preparations coming, Ainzach?" Asked Zanac.

Meanwhile, Suzuki hid under the shadow of a tower, patted himself for coming up with such words on the spot. Truth was, he had truly only wanted to wander around E-Rantel and hang out with the Prince, although he had expected Zanac to add more input on the politics and economy of the Kingdom. Oh well, perhaps he had finally found someone to dump E-Rantel on.

---

E-Rantel was a far cry from the magnificent city of Arwintar, at least in Loune Vermillion's humble opinion. As he peeked out the carriage's window through the thin gap on the curtains, Vermillion felt his nervousness increase. People were all staring his way, from the windows and balconies, or standing on the streets. There was shock, surprise and hatred. Vermillion wouldn't have put it past some of those savages from wanting to kill him on the spot.

He nervously rubbed his neck.

Then again, if the Re-Esterith savages didn't behead him, perhaps the Emperor would.

No, such thoughts are treason, Loune, the man told himself. He took deep steady breath and brought a smile to his face, hiding the anxiety he felt. I am not going to fail the Emperor…

Onwards the carriage went, past yet another gate. Vermillion knew the outlay of E-Rantel, so he knew he was coming close to his destination. He took the opportunity to flatten the creases on his black secretary tunic (he had never been one for fancy wasteful clothes anyway) and prepared himself for what he would see.

The carriage slowed down and Vermillion felt his heart racing once again. He waited with abated breath for the door to open. Seconds passed, and suddenly the door to the carriage clicked open. There, holding the door open, was Leinas Rockbruise. Vermillion didn't miss her impatient scowl.

This is it, he realized.

Vermillion calmly stepped out of the carriage, right into an open cobbled central plaza. Beneath the evening sky, he was able to take in some of E-Rantel's most important buildings: the Palace was right ahead, while the cathedral to the God of Water was to his left, as ominous as ever. Other buildings he saw included what Vermillion assumed were the various residences of important people and the headquarters for different guilds.

However, Vermillion ignored the city and focused on the people around him instead. Citizens of all sorts surrounded the five carriages that made the bulk of the delegation. Guardsmen stood in full attention between the Imperials and the civilians, all while knights and huscarls, clad in well-oiled and shiny armor formed a wide corridor towards the palace. Or rather, to the representatives of the Kingdom.

Vermillion stood still for a moment, allowing for the rest of the delegation to form up as planned. A handful of Imperial noblemen stepped out of their own carriages and were immediately surrounded by their own small band of bodyguards as they went to join Vermillion. Buziwood barked a few orders, and Leinas moved to stand behind Vermillion. From the corner of his eyes, Vermillion studied the mercenaries that had been part of his escort climb down their horses, while the handful of Imperial knights present started unloading crates and chests.

"You ready, boss?" Asked Buziwood with that annoying puncheable smirk of his. How could he sound so confident being surrounded by savages?

"Yes," Vermillion softly said.

As one, Vermillion, with Buziwood to his right and Leinas to his left, led the small band of noblemen and other dignitaries towards the awaiting men of the Kingdom.

At the center, an assuming short fat blond man smiled at Vermillion, flanked by a fully plated man and a mage. There were a whole crowd of noblemen and other relevant people behind the Prince, no doubt having come straight from Re-Estize. Vermillion did not recognize anyone, though, so odds were they were probably third or second sons.

Stranger still was the attire and appearance of some of who Vermillion guessed would be the ones he would be forced to talk to. Some carried rather simple linen tunics and bronze jewelry, while others appeared more akin to huscarls themselves than noblemen. Could chieftains have been invited to partake in the meetings? That was a thought that made Vermillion shiver.

The Imperials stopped their march six feet from the Re-Esterith savages and each side studied the other with wary yet arrogant eyes. Clearly, each side looked down on the other.

"You stand in the presence of Prince Zanac Valleon Igana Ryle Vaiself!" Bellowed the plated man with the handlebar-styled moustache.

"Your highness," greeted Vermillion with a respectful bow. "I am Loune Vermillion, representative of his majesty Jircniv Rune Farlord El-Nix."

"Hmmmm," hummed the Prince, giving a step forward and taking a moment to size them up.

The Prince was not like Vermillion had expected from the reports. He seemed confident enough, and he also handled himself quite well. Some conflicting reports had suggested the Prince carried a visible jealousy towards his family, and spies had described the short man as sleazy and scheming. Still, differently from the Emperor, the Prince looked pathetic in Vermillion's eyes.

"Welcome, all of you, to E-Rantel," said the Prince. "Allow me to introduce my people here…"

And thus began the long tedious introductions. The plated man was the famed Sir Pluton Ainzach, while the mage was Theo Rahkeshir. Sir Azuth Aindra was much easier to recognize, although he was distracted hitting on a noblewoman at the back of the group. The rest of the names Vermillion heard belonged to rather unimportant individuals that wouldn't contribute much. Well, except one other name…

"Sir Momon the Black Knight Errant," the Prince proclaimed. "And his squire, Nabe."

The huge black-clad knight gave Vermillion a court nod, all while standing with his arms folded and looking as the most intimidating of the bunch.

Momon… another mysterious entity I must try to sway to the Empire, thought Vermillion with apprehension.

The rest of the names passed by rather quickly, though there were short and simple names amongst long and convoluted ones, meaning there was, indeed, a mixture of nobility and others.

How strange, thought Vermillion.

Far more curious, however, was the lack of Ainz Ooal Gown or any inhuman people. Spies in E-Rantel had shared that weird green-skinned goblins and other monsters had been seen patrolling the streets. Vermillion was tempted on asking, but held his tongue. He would have rather not sound too eager to meet the enigmatic powerful lord.

After the Prince finished introducing his people, Vermillion proceeded to introduce his brothers-in-arms during the upcoming talks. First came Baziwood and Leinas, and then the others. He spoke loud and clearly, maintaining the dignity of his position.

Thankfully, after the introductions, the delegation was allowed to walk into the palace and straight to their chambers. Vermillion had to concede his room was far more than he had expected, and the furniture didn't disappoint either. However, he opted to ignore his surroundings and, instead, focused on his attire. He refreshed himself and mentally went on the plan his Emperor had given him.

It would be a couple of hours later when Vermillion, and the rest of his delegation, faced off with the Prince. A strangely similar situation as their initial meeting played off in a large hall. Beneath the light of expensive-looking chandeliers, two tables draped in a white cloth went parallel each other. Covered in empty silver platters, plates and cutlery, each table run nearly the entire length of the hall. Behind each table, each group of representatives stood apprehensively.

With the windows to their back were the people of the Re-Estize Kingdom, now dressed in formal attires, including Sir Ainzach and Rahkeshir. The Prince had changed into some more expensive blue coat with golden embroidery while the Head Knight was in simple plain green tunic. However, Vermillion's eyes moved to a woman next to the Prince.

Blond, blue-eyed and pretty, Vermillion wouldn't deny she was beautiful. And yet, stranger still, was the fact she had shown up from nowhere and was sat between Sir Aindra and the Prince. In a periwinkle dress that allowed Vermillion to take in her attractive figure, the man felt at a loss. Could she be the famous Sir Lakyus Aindra? Much to Vermillion's chagrin, Leinas, who much like Baziwood chose to remain in their armor, glared at the pretty woman with jealousy in her one visible eye.

Vermillion glanced to his right, his eyes landing a shorter table, one that was perpendicular to the other two tables. There was no one behind that table.

"Are we waiting for guests, your highness?" Asked Vermillion.

Vermillion, though, knew who would be seated there, and he tried very hard not to look invested in the answer to the question.

"Oh yes, very special guests," mused the Prince.

Smirks formed on the face of the Prince and his companions. It was clear they were already well-acquaintanced with the entity in question. Vermillion had expected as much. That didn't mean he didn't find the situation annoying.

As if summoned by the question, a huge dark void formed behind the empty table. Vermillion maintained a stoic face, even if deep down his heart raced. His companions, though, couldn't contain their surprise, gasping and swearing, especially those closest to that table.

It's him! Thought the man.

From darkness itself a figure formed, walking out of the void. At first, Vermillion thought he was looking at a man, until suddenly his eyes met the entity's. Red fires bore into Vermillion's soul, and the man's blood chilled.

"Ainz Ooal Gown," Vermillion whispered.

The dark lord was just as the reports had described him. Clad in expensive-looking black robes, his face shadowed beneath a hood and with those inhuman eyes of his, Ainz Ooal Gown strolled confidently forth, unafraid of the darkness behind him. In one hand he carried a golden staff, one that looked worth nations. He didn't come out alone, though…

On each side of the dark lord walked a female. One was the most beautiful creature Vermillion had ever seen, even if she was clearly a demon-kin with those black wings and horns of hers. The other made Vermillion gulp. Petite, with silver hair and crimson eye, she looked closer to a child than a woman.

Other beings followed suit. There was a humongous insectoid with blue-carapace, a rather handsome old bearded man in fine weird clothes, beautiful women with some foreign maid-like uniforms and then…

Vermillion felt like choking and someone gasped between the mercenaries and guards behind him.

"Eh, boss, are those dark elves?" Baziwood, ever the smart one, said.

Yes, they were elves alright, with pointed ears and dark complexion. Children in fact. They happily hopped out of the portal, a little boy with a confident demeanor and a timid young girl, and remained close to Lord Ainz.

"We didn't have any reports on dark elves," muttered Leinas.

"Must be a recent thing," decided Baziwood.

"Do not worry," said Vermillion with false confidence. "This changes nothing…"

If only that was the case. Those two dark elves didn't look like slaves. Far from it. Lord Ainz actually seemed to show signs of some kind of familial fondness. Could Lord Ainz have more dark elves as servants? What was Lord Ainz's opinion on elf slavery conducted in the Empire? Those were questions Vermillion needed to figure out, and quickly.

He immediately glanced at the people behind him. Standing against the wall were bodyguards and part of their armed escort. Amongst them were some mercenaries hired just for the meeting. Vermillion found the ones he was most interested in right away: far away, rather close to Lord Ainz's table, were an odd group of mercenaries.

There was a doll-like girl (a woman, actually) who clenched an ancient-looking iron staff, standing next to a half-elf archer. The half-elf looked more of a boy than a girl, with a rather slim frame, differently from the huge plated and bearded cleric looming behind her. The leader of that little group, a blond man with a greedy glint in his eyes and two swords on his hilt, seemed quite surprised by the dark elves as the rest of his comrades.

The Emperor may have had a greater foresight than I had expected. They might prove to be more useful than I first thought, Vermillion thought.

He focused back on Ainz Ooal Gown, who bowed and greeted them all. His voice, Vermillion discovered, was oddly human, yet with a tint of something else, something… more. He paused half-way his introductions, though, his eyes landing on the same group of mercenaries Vermillion had glanced at. To Vermillion's surprise, the dark lord zeroed on the doll-faced woman, burning red eyes shining with interest.

Yes, the Emperor knew what he was doing, thought Vermillion. Maybe the girl, Arche, could serve her purpose…

Unbeknownst to Vermillion, Suzuki was staring at Arche's iron staff, which carried a couple of glowing dwarfish runes.

Thankfully, the dark Lord went back to his introductions and, once everyone was seated, food was brought and laid on the tables. Sadly, no one spoke. They all served themselves, looked at each other, and only silence echoed across the marble walls.

Vermillion could feel the animosity of two nations, two people, who had shed the blood of thousands, simmer between the two parallel tables. Atrocities had been committed on each other, and many probably wished someone dead across the room.

It was a quiet meal at first. A million ways of starting a conversation developed within Vermillion's mind, but no words escaped him. He sincerely rather the Prince break the awkward silence between the three tables. By the looks of it, so did the Prince.

…and so it begins, the game of nations, thought Vermillion, locking gazes with the Prince. Who will make the first move? Who will win? It doesn't matter. The Empire must come on top… I shall not fail my Emperor. This requires subtlety, well-thought words, patience and-

"Oy, Baziwood," exclaimed Sir Azuth, earning a pointed glare from his niece and liege.

"What is it, Aindra?" shouted back Baziwood, earning a glare from Vermillion and Leinas.

"Is it true you have many wives?" Asked Azuth.

"You heard about my girls? Yes, five of them," boasted Baziwood.

"Five? You have my condolences, Imperial dog!" Laughed Azuth.

"Up yours, Re-Esterith savage!" Laughed Baziwood.

"Cheers!" Both idiots exclaimed in unison, rising their cups and bursting into laughter.

Vermillion and Zanac pinched the bridge of their noses in perfect unison. Lakyus and Leinas shook their heads in resignation. The rest of the hall, though, broke out into snickering and chuckles.

"You have multiple wives?" Asked Ainz Ooal Gown, intrigued.

Vermillion fought the urge to sigh, while Leinas scowled. Baziwood, on the other hand, lit up and puffed up his chest.

"Yes, m'lord!" Laughed the rambunctious Imperial knight. "But I rather not bore you with such matters…"

Oh, thank the Emperor, thought Vermillion with relief.

Baziwood, he had learned, loved talking about his many wives. The muscular man clearly loved each of them, and it appeared his favorite hobby consisted in doing what they told him… not something Vermillion had expected.

To Vermillion's horror, though, both Lady Albedo and Lord Ainz hummed in interest.

"We do not mind," said an eager Lord Ainz.

"Please, do share about your wives," asked Lady Albedo. "How do you manage so many female humans?"

Vermillion did not like the way Baziwood's smile turned to a full grin. The representative of the Empire filled his cup with wine and downed it in one gulp. Similarly, Prince Zanac emptied his own cup.

This is going to be a long night, mentally groaned Vermillion.

Suzuki Satoru, on his part, learned quite a lot about New World harems, and got quite a few ideas…

-.-

Far away, on the Ro-Lente Castle back in Re-Estize, a different meeting between nations was taking place.

The Throne Room of the Ro-Lente Castle was an impressive hall with a large expensive red floor, marble balconies on each side, and a huge golden throne on the far end. Banners of the great families hanged on each side, and both the Warrior Troop and Royal Knights lined up in a perfect wall of flesh, steel and potential-brutality at the feet of the steps to the dais.

In front of the many armed and armored men were the noblemen, standing in groups and cliques on each side of the long central purple carpet that led to the throne. Retainers of the lords stood against the walls, looking bored out of their minds, while wives and daughters (as well as children) sat on the balconies, looking down while their gossiped and chatted.

It was amidst the many noblemen that Climb squeezed through. He ignored the looks of the noblemen and knights he came across, and kept a steady pace. He was clad in the mithril armor given to him by his princess, ready for the upcoming meeting. With a stern serious face, the young lad marched to the Golden Princess, who stood next to the throne, on the other side of a red-armored Gazef Stronoff.

He didn't dare try and walk through the wall of Royal Knights and Stronoff's warriors. Instead, he went to stand before the throne itself.

Climb and the Chief Warrior locked gazes, before nodding at each other. Only then did Climb step forward towards the throne and bowed to the man sitting there. King Ramposa III tiredly smiled and nodded back, allowing for Climb to hurry to the Princess' side. As he did, Climb couldn't help but think of the King's appearance. After all, the monarch looked worse for wear. He had always looked like an emaciated old man to Climb, but in the last few days his looks had worsened.

"You took your time. Did something happen, Climb?" Worriedly asked the Princess.

Climb kept his head bowed, hiding the blush promising to overtake his face, all while a knot formed in his gut.

"No, Princess," he said, mustering his usual stern face. "I apologize for the delay. I…"

"You were training to the last moment, weren't you?" The Princess said with a cute pout.

"I- Princess…" spluttered Climb.

"That's quite rude of you, young man."

Climb grimaced and turned to an amused looking King.

"His grace is right, Climb," said Gazef Stronoff. He sounded serious, but Climb could see the way his face threatened to split into a grin. "You do not leave a lady waiting, young man."

"I will strive to avoid such errors in the future, Sir! And- and your grace!" Replied Climb, bowing.

Both Ramposa and Stronoff shared a gentle and kind laugh.

"Don't say that to me, young man," chuckled Ramposa. "Tell that to my daughter…"

Climb turned to Renner, who was pouting even more.

"P-Princess…" spluttered Climb.

The King and Chief Warrior shared another chuckle at that.

"Ah, youths," mused the king.

Climb felt utterly embarrassed, although his heart was moved by the familiarity and warmth provided by both king and Chief Warrior. As an orphan, Climb hadn't known what familial bonds were like. However, he believed he had found some connections… well, to some degree. His duties to the Princess had left him little time to spend time with people.

When Climb went to stand next to the Princess and looked at the rest of the Throne Room, he noticed some of the Warrior Troop, clad in their chainmails and quite the fearsome warriors, were winking and acting like they were giving silent whistles at him. Needless to say, Climb's face turned quite a shade of red at that.

"Oh Climb, are you alright? You look quite flushed," daintily commented the Princess.

"I-I'm fine, your highness," choked Climb.

Sadly, while his eyes tried to focus on the pouting princess in front of him, the Warrior Troop were giving him thumbs up and yet more teasing winks. Climb didn't need for them to speak to know they were all trying to tell him the same thing: "go for it, kid." It was not the first time those accursed huscarls had encouraged him to get something going with the Princess.

No sooner did Renner turn around, the Warrior Troop was grimly glaring dead ahead, their backs to the royals.

Damn them those annoying assholes, thought Climb, glaring at the always teasing Warrior Troop.

Abruptly, everyone fell silent as a single knight hurried into the Throne Room. A wave of whispers followed the plated man, and soon after all noblemen took their positions. Marquis and Mangraves stepped forward as lesser nobles stepped back. They all moved to flank the long purple carpet leading to the throne, baring serious faces.

It is time, realized Climb, instinctively standing up straight.

The knight rushed to Gazef, whispering in his ear. The Chief Warrior turned to the king and gave a nod. Ramposa took a deep breath, mustering both strength and patience, and suddenly he appeared to regain some of his vitality back.

"The delegation is here," proclaimed the King.

Climb gulped and turned to the Princess, who had been staring at him.

"Are you nervous, Climb?" She asked.

"I… yes, princess, a bit," he admitted.

She gave him a beautiful smile, one that made Climb's mind run devoid of any thought.

"You don't have to worry. It is simply a delegation, and they can prove to be valuable allies," she said.

"I know, your highness, but aren't they zealots, especially the Whites?" Asked Climb with concern.

"They aren't as religious as the Slanith, Climb," giggled Renner. "And when it comes to the zealotry of the Nine Colors… let us just say the Whites are the moderates."

"Huh?" Was all Climb could say.

"Just watch and see, Climb," said Renner once again with that beautiful smile of hers.

"As- as you say, your highness," said Climb.

It was at times like those that Climb admired the Princess and regretted the fact she would never be queen. The Princess was so smart and caring…

For some reason, the Princess looked pleased.

All of a sudden, the doors to the throne room opened and in marched a herald, clad in a bright colorful red surcoat. By that point, there was only silence and an air of expectation.

"Your grace, my esteemed Ladies and Gentlemen, brave warriors of the Re-Estize Kingom," started the herald. "I introduce, the honorable members of the envoy from the Holy Roble Kingdom."

Climb puffed up and put on his most serious face. Unfortunately, the Princess chose that moment to turn at him and smile, immediately making him give her back a goofy smile and deflate, much to his embarrassment.

"His Highness, Prince Caspond Bessarez, Brother to her Holiness, Holy Queen Calca Bessarez!"

In marched the man in question, dressed in a long white robe with the blue symbol of his Kingdom proudly emblazoned on his chest and a white cape fluttering behind him. Tall and with long golden hair, he carried himself as one would expect of royalty. However, Climb's attention immediately went to the people flanking him. Climb had known she would show up, but to actually lay eyes on such a legendary warrior gave him a shiver.

"Accompanying his highness, The Captain and one of the two Vice-Captains of the Paladin Order: Remedios Custodio and Gustav Montagnes!"

It was her: Lady White, the most powerful Paladin in recent history. Clad in a silvery plate armor and bright white surcoat, she had a short bob-shaped brown hair affixed with a white hairband, exposing her forehead. Climb was quite surprised to find her rather beautiful, even though her eyes contained a cold, razor-sharp look, like the edge of a blade. Hers was the look of a full-fledged warrior, one Climb had no doubt could easily kill with her own hands if needed… not something he had expected to feel from a holy Paladin.

Gustav Montagnes was a middle-aged man, with light-grayish brown hair and, on his chin, he had a small goatee. He had the frame of a warrior, but the disposition of a leader, calm yet watchful. Differently from Lady White, he actually gave off an aura Climb expected of a paladin. Instead of studying his surroundings, though, for some reason, the Vice-Captain kept glancing at the woman on the Prince's other side.

The Prince, and Paladins, hadn't come alone though. They were followed by a handful of what appeared to be other noblemen from the Holy Kingdom. Much like those of the Re-Estize Kingdom, it was easy to tell they were nobility by the way they strutted in with tunics made of fine material and covered with complex patterns.

Climb's attention, though, went to the rest of the envoy's escort. It was hard not to given what a colorful bunch they were. There were two crimson-clad warriors in full plate, carrying skulls of strange carnivorous animals as pauldrons. Atop their helmets, they had huge horned skulls of some sort of ram. Two other plated warriors strode on each side of the group, with bright yellow surcoats and carrying massive tower shields.

The Herald introduced the accompanying noblemen, all of which bowed courteously to the king. Climb, though, chose to continue studying the warrior escort, from a purple-robed female mage to some sort of orange-clad minstrel with a lute on his back.

All of a sudden, Climb's eyes jumped to King Ramposa, who had left his throne and marched down the dais. He smiled amicably to Prince Caspond before offering a hand. The blond man had a gentle smile of his own as he shook the monarch's hand.

"I am honored by your presence, your highness," said Ramposa.

"It is an honor to be here, your grace," replied Caspond with a thick accent.

"I must say, your highness, I was quite surprised when I learned you'd be escorted by Lady White herself," the King said, giving a respectful nod to Captain Custodio.

The woman, though, remained standing up straight, staring at the king.

"Her Holiness insisted," said Caspond with a smile of fondness.

Climb wondered if the Prince's visible fondness was real or only court mummery.

"Speaking of my sister, she insisted on giving a gift to his grace."

The Prince turned around and gestured at someone to step forward. As it so happened, it was someone Climb had failed to notice. In fact, he was sure said person had trying to hide away from everyone's gaze.

"Oh, and who is this?" Asked the King.

Climb's expression hardened and his hand instinctively reached for his hilt. There, standing before the king with a box in her hands, was a rather shady looking blonde girl, with questionable dark circles under her beady black eyes.

Climb squinted at her. How dare she had the gall to glare at King Ramposa like that? Apparently, Climb wasn't the only one with that opinion. He noticed Gazef giving the child a cautious onceover, much like the Royal Knights and the Warrior Troop.

"Ah, yes, I suppose I had yet to introduce her," said Caspond, urging the girl forward.

It was only then that Climb realized that she was clad in the white tunic with the blue sigil of her country. The girl stepped forward, and bowed respectful. However, she did not undo that nasty glare of hers. Climb felt rather insulted at that; she probably looked down on them, Re-Esterith, as savages.

"Your grace, this is Vice-Captain Montagnes' squire," Caspond said. "Neia Baraja."

Both the King and Chief Warrior reacted at that. They weren't the only ones. They turned to study the girl, who had gone completely stiff, as if to fend off the urge to squirm under the gaze of so many influential people.

"Wait, Baraja, as in-?"

"Yes, your grace," said Caspond with an apologetic smile. "She's the daughter of Lord Black."

Lord Black? The Lord Black? Thought Climb in utter disbelief. One of the deadliest humans in the known world? He has a daughter?

He looked at the girl, but the squire's attention was on someone else: the Princess. Climb gritted his teeth. He found himself filled with anger at the way she dared to look at the Golden Princess.

Unbeknownst to Climb, although her princess had yet to break away from her usual smile, her eyes gleamed with bright dangerous interest.

Prince Caspond cleared his throat and whispered something to the squire in the Roble tongue. The young woman's face seemed to scrunch with some strange emotion (it was hard to read with that glare of hers). Whatever the Prince said, it made the Captain immediately add something in a sharp, admonishing tone. The Squire stiffened, appeared to apologize and then bowed, all while offering the wooden box to the king. On his part, the Vice-Captain sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose.

It was one of the Royal Knights who took the box, and held it for Gazef to open it. To Climb's surprise, the Chief Warrior extracted an expensive looking tunic made of some white silky material. It wasn't silk, though, or at least not the rare silk imported from the Slane Theocracy.

"This is made of fine material," the king politely said, touching the white tunic. "I do not recognize it, though…"

"Spidan silk, your grace," said Prince Caspond. "As soft as linen, but as hard as steel."

"Oh," said Ramposa, visibly confused. "How thoughtful, your highness. Thank you for your gracious gift."

Caspond smiled good-naturedly, all while Climb frowned. What was a Spidan? The name did strike some familiarity. Climb wracked his brain for any clue, but nothing came forth. He would ask the Princess later; she probably knew about it.

What followed were a long series of boring formalities that promised to make Climb yawn. He stood guard, though, keeping an eye on the glaring squire of the Vice-Captain. Noblemen got their chance to have their word, be it from the Re-Estize kingdom or the delegation, before warriors were properly introduced.

"I do not mean to be rude, your grace, but I am curious to know: where are the Princes?" Asked Caspond.

"Prince Zanac is at E-Rantel, managing the situation there after the unfortunate attack from some random cult of necromancers," the King said with practiced ease. "He is also receiving an Imperial Delegation."

"A delegation from the Empire? That's quite surprising to hear," hummed Caspond. "Will there finally be peace between your kingdom and the Empire?"

"While I do wish for such a resolution, I do not see the Bloody Emperor ever conceiving such a thing," harrumphed Ramposa. "He's too blinded by ambition for peace…"

A grimace crossed Caspond's face at the mention of the Emperor.

"Most tyrants are," sighed Caspond.

He suddenly looked awfully tired, as if the mere mention of tyrants had left him emotionally drained. However, the Prince returned to smiling, his eyes wandering around once more.

"And what about your other son, your grace?"

King Ramposa's smile grew strained and his face darkened.

"Prince Barbro is unavailable at the moment," said the King.

The Prince looked intrigued for a moment only to nod and smile.

"A pity, I suppose," said Caspond.

"Indeed," grunted Ramposa. His expression softened as he went back to smiling with genuine kindness. "Now, your highness, I presume your people must be tired after such a long journey. Allow my steward to guide you to your chambers."

"I thank your hospitality, your grace," said Caspond. "It is my hope this is but the beginning of a friendship between our nations."

"I share that same hope," said the King. "If the Four allow it, a new brighter future will arise from this meeting."

As the Prince of the Holy Kingdom and the King of the Re-Estize Kingdom shook hands again, Climb suddenly got the distinct impression that he was witnessing a rather momentous event. And yet, he could not shake an eerie feeling, a sensation that had been growing within his very soul in the last few days.

Climb glanced at the Princess and his stomach twisted into knots.

Why did he feel like something terrible was going to happen?

---

Author Notes: I'm back, lads. Sorry for the delay. I ended up with a ransomware that formed me to delete everything and then got tied up with tons of work. Hopefully this chapter was worth the delay.

In any case, thanks a lot for the reviews! You really know how to get someone rolling!

By the way, last chance to decide: what race would you like to see for Nfirea? (got three answers, all different last chapter) I sincerely would love to hear what you guys want, same with making Neia Remedios' daughter (perhaps).

Till next time and, again, thanks for reading!

The Emerald Commander