The soft rustling of fabric filled the dimly lit room as maids folded fresh linens. Ninth's eyes were bright with excitement as she finished her story.

"I wish you had been there to see it! I was right there, front and center when Lady Vesi and Lord Ainz reunited." She let out a small sigh, hugging the still warm towel to her chest. "It truly was magical.."

A hush settled over the room, each maid sharing a quiet smile as their hands returning to the linens with renewed energy. The story was almost too grand to be true, yet here it was, rippling through their ranks as a secret they were lucky to share.

"Ahh, I'm so jealous!" whispered one of the maids, clutching a stack of folded sheets a little tighter.

Fifth shook her head, eyes wide with wonder. "I can't believe Lady Vesi has actually returned."

[Philian Apolesai]

"LADY VESI HAS RETURNED?!"

The scream echoed through Shalltear's chambers as she jumped from her plush chair, teacup falling from her hands to stain the delicate pink upholstery with blood. Her dainty hand still on her temple, trying to steady herself from the shock. For a moment, she was completely stunned, absorbing the news from the voice in her head—after the realization hit her, anger flashed in her crimson eyes.

"That smug, conniving bastard!" She stamped her foot like a petulant child, folding her arms with an indignant huff. "I bet that's what Demiurge was trying to hide from me! Why would he even bother with something like that?" she muttered, a sharp tch escaping her lips. "That selfish ass is trying to take all the credit…" Her jaw clenched into a pout and her brow furrowed. He'd gone right over her head, over everyone, just to put himself first! "Well, I can be impressive too!"

Without another thought, she threw open her wardrobe, yanking out her favorite gown. Muttering to herself as she struggled to change, the fabric nearly tearing in her hands as she pulled it on. "Oh, Lady Vesi will see how much I've grown and how loyal I am," she said, puffing up with pride. "Demiurge will be forgotten by the time I'm finished."

After straightening her collar, Shalltear admired her reflection for a moment before summoning a shimmering [Gate]. With one final glance, she stepped through, already planning a grand show for her lady's return.

[Philian Apolesai]

Aura stretched across a low hanging branch, lazily letting her feet dangle as Mare slowly nibbled his way through lunch. He always ate slowly, though usually it was because his nose was buried in some book. Now he was far too busy still fretting over the news.

"Sis..." He finally called out, looking up at his seemingly unbothered sister. "What if she doesn't even remember us?" He twisted his hands together, mind racing through memories—Lady Vesi laughing at his cuteness, praising his strength to Lady Bukubukuchagama. Did those moments mean as much to her as they did to him? He fidgeted, glancing at the ground. "It's just… it's been so long."

"Don't be silly! Our Lady wouldn't have worked so hard to come home if she didn't remember us. Besides, Pestonya already said that Lady Vesi is excited to see us! You worry too much."

"But—" Before Mare could stammer a reply, the air of the clearing shifted. The crackling of magic and swirling flashes of light appearing at its center. Shalltear ran out in a frenzy. Her gown billowed around her as she stormed into their space, crimson eyes glinting with fury. Without pausing to look at them, she clenched her fists. "Can you believe it?!" She started screaming "Lady Vesi is back! And nobody told me!" she shrieked, startling the birds nearby.

Aura rolled her eyes, hopping down from the tree. "What is your problem? We're all just getting the news now."

Shalltear stomped in a circle, ignoring Aura's annoyance as she continued, "This is terrible news! I can't believe he'd be so selfish—"

Aura's jaw dropped. "What the heck's that supposed to mean?"

Shalltear spun, gripping the girl by her shoulders as her voice rose. "It's terrible because Demiurge is so selfish! He wanted all the glory for himself, and now I'm not prepared! We need to set up the welcoming party right now!"

Aura exchanged a confused glance with Mare, then tilted her head towards Pestonya, who only shrugged. No one is ever helpful in times like these. After a small sigh, de-escalation seemed like the best option. "But... I think our Lady is resting, so shouldn't we wait—"

"No-no-no-no!" Shalltear interrupted, waving her hands wildly. "We're doing this, Aura! She's been gone for centuries, and we're going to show her how much we missed her, regardless of how greedy Demiurge has decided to be!"

Without waiting for a response, Shalltear seized Aura's hand, pulling her towards the [Gate]. Aura huffed, her free hand clenched at her side. "But we don't even have permission to see her yet!" She twisted to look back, hoping for a sign that she could escape, but Shalltear's grip only tightened.

"You don't have to understand, Shorty, but we need to get things ready!"

Aura managed one last exasperated look back at Mare, who gave her a small, worried wave in return. She groaned as Shalltear tugged her forward, giving in and letting herself be pulled away. "Fine, fine, but when she thinks we're all crazy, I'm blaming you."

[Philian Apolesai]

Aura trudged along with Shalltear, practically dragging her along. "We're not doing this without Albedo!" Shalltear insisted, all but skipping with excitement. "It has to be perfect, don't you see? All of us ladies together to welcome her back!"

Aura rolled her eyes and though she didn't argue, she'd been muttering things under her breath the entire walk. Not that something as silly as Aura's reluctance would ruin her mood. Albedo loved organizing parties so soon Shalltear would have someone that actually understood the importance of this celebration.

Just as they reached the corridor leading to Albedo's quarters, they nearly collided with a tall figure dressed in pristine formal wear. Sebas came to an abrupt stop, his eyes widening a fraction in mild surprise as Shalltear skidded to a halt mere inches from him.

"Lady Shalltear, Lady Aura," he greeted. His gaze settling on Shalltear. She was practically buzzing. "May I ask if there is a reason for all this urgency?"

"We're assembling everyone!" Shalltear exclaimed, leaning closer with barely restrained excitement. "Lady Vesi has returned, and we must prepare a reception fitting of her glory!"

Sebas offered a small nod, his expression remained steady, unruffled by Shalltear's enthusiasm. "An admirable initiative, my lady." He replied smoothly as he glanced from one to the other, sensing their hasty, unplanned approach. "However, may I suggest that we summon the Guardians formally? A unified greeting would ensure the decorum a Supreme Being deserves."

Aura tilted her head, and Shalltear's bright smile faltered. "What do you mean?" she demanded, crossing her arms with a slight pout. "We're already bringing everyone together, I'm getting them right now."

"Yes," Sebas replied, unflappable, "but if you'll permit me, a formal message would reach every Guardian directly—far more efficiently as well." His calm gaze met Shalltear's, a gentle reminder of protocol. "Allow me to contact the others and set a time. That way we can ensure everyone is involved in making a splendid return for our lady. Without needing to sprint through the halls," he added at the end. Looking down at the two of them like a displeased father.

Shalltear opened her mouth, then closed it, visibly torn between the need to handle things herself and the undeniable logic Sebas presented. She straightened, folding her arms. "Fine. But only if you get everyone here. And fast!"

Sebas nodded, hands clasped behind his back. "Of course, my lady. I'll send the [Messages] immediately." He then paused, looking at Aura. "And perhaps you two could see to any immediate preparations in the meantime?"

Shalltear puffed up, her satisfaction returning. "Exactly what I was thinking! Come on, Aura—Sebas will handle all the formalities while we do what's important." Shalltear said with a triumphant smile. Sebas watched them go before reaching for the scroll to send his [Message].

"Just you wait! This is going to be the grandest celebration Nazarick has ever seen," she called over her shoulder to any that would listen. As Shalltear and Aura disappeared around the corner, Sebas allowed himself a rare smile. Yes, the return of Lady Vesi would be no small event. It would reshape Nazarick in more ways than one.

[Philian Apolesai]

Those winds of change blew through the deepest depths of the Tomb where Demiurge no longer bothered to suppress the maniacal grin twisting his lips as he meticulously arranged enchanted scrolls and ledgers across the table. His new office—no, her office. Of course, it was still his lady's space. But surely, for her sake and that of his lord's, it was only fitting that he establish a suitable work area nearby; and what could be better than this lounge? It was essential, really, given the responsibilities he was shouldering.

This was the moment—the beginning of his ascent to becoming indispensable to his masters.

He had already won a glimmer of Lady Vesi's trust, and that was enough. More than enough. A foothold. A place from which he could steadily grow into her personal guard. The words resonated sweetly in his mind, he allowed himself to savor them. His role may have been temporary in their eyes, but he would make certain it lasted. He would prove his worth to Lady Vesi, to Lord Ainz. He would become irreplaceable.

Yes, his role as her aide was far from temporary. Lady Vesi would recognize his worth, Lord Ainz would notice his dedication, and soon they'd understand just how indispensable he could be. Smoothing the parchment before him, he let the thought settle. The idea of becoming the Supreme Ones' most trusted, most loyal, their ultimate asset—it made his blood sing. He could already envision it: recognition, acknowledgment, praise. And beyond that, the power that would follow, not for himself, but to give them the world, one piece at a time. Just as his lord intended.

The sudden, familiar ping of a [Message] trying to connect pulled him from his thoughts and dragged him back to the present. Sebas' deep, steady voice cut into his mind.

"Lord Demiurge, Lady Shalltear has requested the presence of all guardians for an important meeting. It will be held at the lower round table this evening."

Demiurge's lips curled into a slight sneer that went unseen as he replied with his usual sharp politeness.

"Ah, of course. How considerate of you to reach out personally."

"I am merely carrying out my duty, as I'm sure you will."

There was a brief pause, Sebas' silent challenge hanging in the air. Demiurge inhaled sharply while he worked to ignore the jab.

"Naturally."

"Good. I expect no less from someone in your position."

Demiurge's eyes narrowed slightly, though his voice remained smooth and composed.

"I will be there shortly."

The constant hum of the [Message] spell faded, but the words lingered. Weighing heavier than Sebas probably intended. "Someone in your position." The phrase, so deliberately chosen, rankled. Your position. Demiurge had no illusions about the way Sebas viewed him—distrustful, wary, contemptuous even. All fine, Demiurge felt the same way about him. The butler had always been an obstacle, albeit a silent one. Too disciplined to openly oppose him, yet too upright to simply let him work in peace.

But his position? Demiurge scoffed. His work surpassed such things. Sebas could not comprehend the scope of his plans—how each small action, each conversation, was meticulously woven into a larger tapestry. The game was not about standing still but advancing, and if Sebas wanted to remain nothing more than a butler, then so be it. Demiurge was destined for more. The title of "Guardian" was a starting point, not the summit.

The scent of parchment and ink brought him back to the room, his fingers unconsciously tracing along the scrolls that lay before him. Idly sorting through the pens on the table—small, meaningless tasks to refocus his mind. This meeting would likely center around Lady Vesi's return, something he had expected Shalltear to act on so things were still going as planned. The guardians would all gather; Sebas was likely seeing to the arrangements at this very moment. If he played his cards right, he could make them see that he was the best pick for their lady's guard as Lord Ainz already had. No one else could advise and assist their masters as well as he could. It was his purpose, after all. Created to be their tactician. And he would play into his role flawlessly.

[Philian Apolesai]